Top 11 Java Consultant Certifications

Certifications for a Java consultant in the job market are important for several reasons. First, they provide employers with an assurance that the consultant has the necessary skills and experience to work on their projects. Certifications also help consultants stand out from other job applicants as they demonstrate commitment to their craft and demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge. In addition, certifications can open up doors to new opportunities and higher-paying jobs since employers may be willing to pay more for someone with specific certifications that prove their abilities. Finally, certifications can also help consultants stay up-to-date with new technologies or trends in the industry, allowing them to remain competitive in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Java Consultants and explain how they can enhance a java consultant's career.

What are Java Consultant Certifications?

Java Consultant Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the Java programming language and related technologies. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in developing, deploying, and administering software applications using the Java platform.

The certification covers topics such as object-oriented design, data structures, web services, distributed computing, enterprise application architecture, database integration, and security. It also tests an individual’s ability to solve problems using the Java programming language. By passing this certification exam, individuals demonstrate their proficiency in Java development and prove they have the necessary skills to be successful on projects that require Java expertise.

Having a Java consultant certification can help individuals stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or contracts related to Java development. It also helps employers identify qualified professionals who are knowledgeable about the technology and can provide reliable solutions for their organization’s needs. Additionally, having this certification can open up new opportunities for those seeking career advancement within the field of software development and engineering. Furthermore, it allows professionals to gain credibility among their peers and build relationships with potential employers by demonstrating their technical expertise in this specific area of technology.

Pro Tip: When considering a Java consultant certification, look for one that includes hands-on experience and practice exams. This will help ensure you have the necessary skills to be successful in your role as a Java consultant.

Related: What does a Java Consultant do?

Top 11 Java Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Java Consultants today.

1. Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer (OCPJP) is an industry-recognized certification for experienced Java developers. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of a professional programmer in the Java programming language and platform.

The OCPJP certification requires a minimum of one year of experience with the Java programming language and platform, as well as passing two exams. The first exam, Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer I (1Z0-808), covers basic concepts such as object-oriented programming, core language features, and syntax. The second exam, Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer II (1Z0-809), covers advanced topics such as concurrency, collections, JDBC, and more.

To get certified as an Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer you must pass both exams within three years. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through Oracle’s website. Each exam costs $245 USD and must be taken separately.

Once you have passed both exams you will receive your OCPJP certification from Oracle which is valid for three years. After three years you will need to retake the tests to maintain your certification status.

2. Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect

Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect (OCMJEA) is an Oracle certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in designing and developing enterprise-level applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE). It is intended for experienced enterprise architects who have a deep understanding of the Java EE platform and its related technologies.

The OCMJEA certification requires passing two exams: the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer Exam (1Z0-809) and the Oracle Certified Master, Java EE 6 Enterprise Architect Exam (1Z0-807). The 1Z0-809 exam tests your knowledge of the core language features and APIs of Java SE 8. The 1Z0-807 exam tests your ability to design, develop, deploy and secure enterprise applications using the Java EE 6 platform.

It typically takes between one to three months to prepare for both exams depending on your current level of knowledge. To get started you should review the exam objectives for each exam and create a study plan based on those objectives. You should also consider taking practice exams or enrolling in a training course to help you better understand the material.

The cost of each exam varies but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking practice exams or enrolling in a training course.

3. Oracle Certified Expert, Java EE Web Component Developer

Oracle Certified Expert, Java EE Web Component Developer is a certification offered by Oracle to demonstrate expertise in developing web applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE). This certification is intended for experienced developers who have a comprehensive understanding of the development process and the technologies used.

To become an Oracle Certified Expert, Java EE Web Component Developer, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-899 Java EE 6 Web Component Developer Certified Expert Exam and 1Z0-900 Java EE 6 Web Services Developer Certified Expert Exam. Each exam takes approximately 3 hours to complete and costs $245 USD.

In order to prepare for these exams, it is recommended that you have hands-on experience with the technologies covered in the exams as well as access to training materials and practice tests. Additionally, Oracle provides online training courses that can help you prepare for the exams.

Overall, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to become an Oracle Certified Expert, Java EE Web Component Developer depending on your level of experience and preparation.

4. Oracle Certified Expert, Java ME Mobile Application Developer

Oracle Certified Expert, Java ME Mobile Application Developer is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in developing mobile applications using the Java Micro Edition (ME) platform. This certification validates the skills and knowledge needed to develop mobile applications for devices such as cell phones, PDAs, and other embedded systems.

It takes approximately six months of preparation to pass this exam. During this time, candidates should become familiar with the Java ME platform and its APIs, as well as gain experience in developing mobile applications using Java ME. Candidates must also be knowledgeable about topics such as user interface design, security, performance optimization, debugging techniques, and deployment strategies.

To become an Oracle Certified Expert in Java ME Mobile Application Development, candidates must first pass the Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer Exam (1Z0-809). After passing this exam, they can then take the Oracle Certified Expert (OCE) Java ME Mobile Application Developer Exam (1Z0-856). This exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess a candidate's knowledge of developing mobile applications using the Java ME platform.

The cost of taking the OCE Java ME Mobile Application Developer Exam is $245 USD.

5. Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP)

The Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) is a certification program developed and maintained by Oracle. It is designed to test an individual’s knowledge of the Java programming language and its core libraries. The SCJP exam is a multiple-choice, computer-based test that covers topics such as object-oriented programming, exception handling, collections, generics, threads, I/O streams, and other language features.

It typically takes about two months of preparation to be ready for the SCJP exam. To get certified, you must pass the SCJP exam with a score of at least 65%. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it generally ranges from $150-$200 USD.

To prepare for the exam you can use books or online courses which cover all topics included in the exam. You should also practice coding in Java to gain hands-on experience with the language. Additionally, there are several practice exams available online which can help you assess your readiness for the real exam.

6. Sun Certified Web Component Developer (SCWCD)

Sun Certified Web Component Developer (SCWCD) is a certification program designed to help demonstrate an individual's knowledge and proficiency in developing web-based applications using Java technology. This certification covers topics such as the Java Servlet and JavaServer Pages technologies, web application deployment, session management, security, and more.

The SCWCD exam typically takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country in which you are taking it; however, it typically costs around $200 USD.

In order to become certified, individuals must pass the SCWCD exam with a minimum score of 65%. Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from Oracle that verifies their expertise in developing web-based applications using Java technology.

7. IBM Certified Solution Developer - Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6

IBM Certified Solution Developer - Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 is an IBM certification that demonstrates a professional's expertise in developing applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 6. It is designed for experienced Java developers who have a deep understanding of the Java EE 6 platform and its components.

It takes approximately 5-7 hours to complete the exam, depending on your experience level. To get certified, you must pass one of two exams: C9530-277 or C9530-418. The cost of each exam varies depending on location and currency exchange rates. Generally speaking, the cost is around $200 USD per exam.

In order to prepare for the exam, you should have a solid understanding of the Java EE 6 platform and its components such as Servlets 3.0, JSP 2.2, EJB 3.1, JPA 2.0 and Web Services 1.3/2.0/2.1/2.2 standards and technologies such as XML/XSD/XSLT/JAXB/JAX-WS/JAX-RS etc., as well as knowledge of application servers like WebSphere Application Server 8 or higher versions and related tools like Rational Application Developer 9 or higher versions. Additionally, you should be familiar with web services security concepts such as WS-Security and OAuth 2 etc., along with other related topics like database connectivity (JDBC), messaging (JMS) and web service integration (SOAP).

8. IBM Certified Advanced Application Developer - Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6

IBM Certified Advanced Application Developer - Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 is a professional certification program offered by IBM. It is designed to validate a developer’s skills in developing applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 (Java EE 6) technology stack.

To get this certification, you must pass two exams: Exam C9530-519 and Exam C9530-520. The exams are available through Pearson VUE. Each exam costs $200 USD.

The exams take approximately 2 hours each to complete and cover topics such as: application design and development, web services and messaging, enterprise architecture, security, performance tuning, debugging techniques and more.

In order to prepare for the exams, it is recommended that you have experience in developing applications using Java EE 6 technologies such as EJB 3.1, JPA 2.0 and JSF 2.0; as well as experience with WebSphere Application Server 8.5 or later versions. Additionally, IBM provides free courseware for the certification which can help you prepare for the exams.

Overall, getting IBM Certified Advanced Application Developer - Java Platform Enterprise Edition 6 will cost around $400 USD and requires about 4 hours of exam time to complete both tests successfully.

9. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to develop and maintain interactive web applications using the latest HTML5, JavaScript, and CSS3 technologies. It demonstrates a candidate’s understanding of core web development concepts such as client-side scripting, server-side programming, web services, and multimedia integration.

The MCSA: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 certification requires one exam to be completed. This exam is Microsoft Exam 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3. The exam covers topics such as styling page content; implementing program flow; accessing and securing data; using graphics, audio, video, and multimedia elements; creating offline experiences; debugging code; testing code for performance; and deploying applications.

To get the MCSA: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 certification, you must pass the Microsoft Exam 70-480. It typically takes around 8 hours to complete this exam.

The cost of the Microsoft Exam 70-480 varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $165 USD for the exam.

10. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Introduction to Programming Using Java

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Introduction to Programming Using Java is an entry-level certification program designed for individuals who want to learn the fundamentals of programming using the Java language. The MTA Introduction to Programming Using Java exam covers topics such as data types, variables, operators, classes and objects, flow control, and exception handling. It also provides a foundation for future learning in software development and application development.

The MTA Introduction to Programming Using Java exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. It consists of 40-60 multiple choice questions and can be taken online or at a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD.

To get certified with the MTA Introduction to Programming Using Java certification, you must pass the corresponding exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official Microsoft Certification transcript that will list your achievement.

11. Zend Certified PHP Engineer

Zend Certified PHP Engineer is an industry-recognized certification program for professional PHP developers. It is designed to validate a developer’s knowledge and skills in the areas of object-oriented programming, web development, database design, security, and other related topics. The certification is offered by Zend Technologies, the creators of the open source PHP scripting language.

The certification consists of two exams: Zend Framework Certification and Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCE). To become a ZCE, you must pass both exams. The exam questions cover topics such as object-oriented programming concepts, web development principles, database design principles, security best practices and more.

The exams are administered online through Pearson VUE testing centers. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $195 USD per exam. You must register for each exam separately on the Pearson VUE website before you can take it. Once you have passed both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your ZCE certificate from Zend Technologies.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the exams and complete them successfully. However, this varies depending on individual experience level and study habits.

Do You Really Need a Java Consultant Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a Java Consultant Certificate to be successful in the field of Java Consulting. However, there are some important considerations when it comes to whether or not obtaining such a certificate may be beneficial.

Java Consulting is an incredibly competitive field, and having a certificate can set you apart from other applicants who don't have one. Having a Java Consultant Certificate shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to the field. It also demonstrates your commitment and dedication to honing your craft as a consultant. Furthermore, many employers may require that their consultants possess such credentials in order for them to be considered for employment.

On the other hand, having a Java Consultant Certificate does not guarantee success in this field. Just like any profession, success depends on the individual's skill level, experience, and ability to think critically and solve problems. Therefore, while having such a credential may provide an advantage when applying for jobs or promotions within the consulting industry, it is ultimately up to each individual's unique abilities that will determine their success in this field.

In conclusion, obtaining a Java Consultant Certificate is not necessary for success in this field but it may give you an edge over other applicants without one. Ultimately it is up to each individual's unique abilities and qualifications that will determine their success as a Java Consultant.

Related: Java Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Java Consultant Certifications

Q1. What is a Java Consultant Certification?

A1. A Java Consultant Certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the programming language and related technologies. It certifies that an individual has the necessary skills to design, develop, implement, and maintain applications using Java technology.

Q2. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Java consultant?

A2. Becoming a certified Java consultant provides numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, recognition from employers and peers, and career advancement opportunities. Additionally, having a certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

Q3. How do I become a certified Java consultant?

A3. In order to become a certified Java consultant you must pass the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) exam which covers topics such as object-oriented programming, database connectivity and networking fundamentals. You must also have experience developing applications with Java technology before taking the exam.

Q4. What is the cost of obtaining a Java consultant certification?

A4. The cost of obtaining a Java consultant certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD for the exam fee alone plus any additional fees associated with course materials or training programs needed to prepare for the exam.

Q5. How long does it take to become certified as a Java consultant?

A5. The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Java consultant depends on your level of experience with the language and how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam but typically it takes 3-6 months once you start preparing for it in earnest