Top 10 Java Web Developer Certifications

Certifications for a Java Web Developer are important in the job market because they demonstrate the developer's knowledge and proficiency in specific areas of development. Having certifications can increase an individual's chances of being hired, as employers often look for candidates who have a proven track record of achievement. Certifications also help to show that a developer is up-to-date on the latest technologies and best practices, which is especially important since technology changes so rapidly. Additionally, certifications can be beneficial when applying for higher-level positions or promotions, as they provide evidence of the additional skills and capabilities that an individual has acquired.

This article reviews the top certifications for Java Web Developers and explains how they can help to advance a java web developer's career.

What are Java Web Developer Certifications?

Java Web Developer Certification is a professional certification program designed to help developers gain expertise in developing web applications using Java technology. The certification is designed to provide developers with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, build, deploy, and maintain web applications using Java technologies. With this certification, developers can demonstrate their technical competency and prove their ability to use Java technologies effectively.

The certification consists of a comprehensive set of topics related to web development with Java technologies, including HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, J2EE (Java Enterprise Edition), XML (Extensible Markup Language), AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML), SQL (Structured Query Language) Database Design & Administration, Web Services Architecture & Development and more. It also covers topics such as server-side programming and client-side scripting techniques, security considerations for web applications, best practices for designing user interfaces and performance optimization techniques.

Having a Java Web Developer Certification can help boost your career by providing you with an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. It will also demonstrate your commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest web development trends and technologies. Employers often prefer candidates who are certified in their chosen profession as it shows that they have the technical knowledge required to complete projects efficiently. Additionally, having this credential may qualify you for higher salaries or more responsibility in your current role.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a Java Web Developer certification, focus on mastering the fundamentals of Java and web development. Having a strong understanding of the core concepts behind the language and its related technologies will give you an advantage when taking the exam.

Related: What does a Java Web Developer do?

Top 10 Java Web Developer Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE Web Component Developer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE Web Component Developer is a certification program offered by Oracle that demonstrates an individual's expertise in developing web components using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE). This certification is suitable for individuals who are looking to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in developing web-based applications using the latest Java EE technology.

The certification requires applicants to pass two exams:

1) Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer I (OCPJP8)

2) Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 6 Web Component Developer (OCPJWCD).

The OCPJP8 exam covers topics such as object-oriented concepts, design principles, language fundamentals, and basic application development techniques. The OCPJWCD exam focuses on topics related to developing web components using the Java EE platform such as servlets, JSPs, JSFs and EJBs. Both exams require a minimum passing score of 65%.

It typically takes around three months of study and preparation to successfully pass both exams. Applicants should be familiar with the Java programming language prior to taking the exams. Additionally, applicants should have some experience working with web technologies such as HTML5 and JavaScript.

The cost for both exams is $245 USD each.

2. Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect

Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect (OCMJEA) is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in the design and development of enterprise-level applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE). This certification is designed to assess an individual's ability to apply best practices for developing secure, high-performance, scalable architectures with the Java EE platform.

To become an Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect, you must first pass two exams: 1Z0-807: Java Enterprise Edition 6 Enterprise Architect Certified Master Exam and 1Z0-865: Java Enterprise Edition 5/6 Enterprise Architect Certified Master Assignment. The first exam tests your knowledge of core concepts related to the architecture and design of enterprise applications using the Java EE platform. The second exam requires you to complete a practical assignment that demonstrates your ability to design a solution for a given problem.

The entire process can take anywhere from 3 months to 6 months depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams.

In order to get certified as an Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Architect, you will need to register for and pass both exams. You can find more information about registering for these exams on Oracle’s website.

The cost of taking both exams is approximately $400 USD.

3. Sun Certified Java Web Developer

Sun Certified Java Web Developer is a certification program designed to help developers demonstrate their expertise in building web applications using the Java programming language. The certification is offered by Oracle, which acquired Sun Microsystems in 2010.

The certification requires that applicants pass two exams: the Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) exam and the Sun Certified Web Component Developer (SCWCD) exam. Both exams are multiple-choice tests that assess a candidate’s knowledge of the Java programming language and related technologies. The SCJP exam covers topics such as object-oriented programming, multithreading, and collections; while the SCWCD exam focuses on topics such as servlets, JSPs, XML, and web services.

It typically takes several months of study and practice to prepare for these exams. Candidates should be familiar with the technology covered by each exam before attempting it. Additionally, Oracle offers training courses and practice tests to help candidates prepare for both exams.

The cost of taking the SCJP and SCWCD exams varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD per exam.

4. IBM Certified Application Developer - WebSphere Application Server

IBM Certified Application Developer - WebSphere Application Server is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced application developers who design, develop, deploy and troubleshoot applications on IBM WebSphere Application Server. This certification proves that you have the skills necessary to build robust, secure and scalable applications on IBM WebSphere Application Server.

It typically takes around six months of preparation to get this certification. To get certified, you need to pass two exams: C9530-519 (IBM WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V9.0 Core Administration) and C9530-520 (IBM WebSphere Application Server Liberty Core Administration). Both exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

The cost for each exam is $200 USD. Therefore, the total cost for getting IBM Certified Application Developer - WebSphere Application Server is $400 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and deploy modern mobile and/or web applications. This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in developing applications with Microsoft Visual Studio and the Microsoft .NET Framework.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the requirements for this certification, depending on your existing knowledge and experience. To get certified you must pass two exams: Exam 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3, and Exam 70-486: Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications. You can find more information about these exams on the Microsoft website.

The cost of this certification varies depending on which country you are located in and which exam provider you choose to use. Generally speaking, it will cost around $150-$200 per exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams.

6. Zend Certified PHP Engineer

Zend Certified PHP Engineer is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the expertise of experienced PHP developers. It is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates proficiency in developing applications using the Zend Framework, a popular open source web application framework for PHP. The certification exam covers topics such as object-oriented programming, database access, security, web services, and performance tuning.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have two years of professional experience with PHP development or equivalent knowledge.

To get the Zend Certified PHP Engineer certification, applicants must register online at the official website and pay the required fee. The cost of the exam varies depending on country location but typically ranges from $195 - $225 USD.

Once registered and paid for, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule their exam date and time. After taking the exam, applicants will receive their results within 48 hours via email. Those who pass will receive their official certificate within four weeks of passing the exam.

7. Red Hat Certified JBoss Developer

Red Hat Certified JBoss Developer is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in developing applications using the JBoss Enterprise Application Platform. This certification is aimed at developers who have the knowledge and skills to build, deploy, and troubleshoot applications on the JBoss platform.

The Red Hat Certified JBoss Developer exam typically takes around two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass this exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam covers topics such as application architecture, development tools, deployment strategies, security considerations, and performance tuning.

To get certified as a Red Hat Certified JBoss Developer, you must first purchase the exam voucher from Red Hat’s website. The cost of the exam voucher varies depending on your location but typically ranges between $200 USD and $400 USD. Once you have purchased the voucher, you can register for an available testing date at any Pearson VUE test center near you.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate via email within five business days. Your certification will be valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, you will need to renew your certification by taking a new version of the exam or by completing training courses offered by Red Hat or its partners.

8. Adobe ColdFusion 9/10 ACE Exam

The Adobe ColdFusion 9/10 ACE Exam is an exam designed to test the knowledge and skills of experienced ColdFusion developers. It is a multiple-choice exam that covers topics such as application architecture, database integration, debugging and troubleshooting, security, performance tuning, and more. The exam consists of 60 questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

To get the Adobe ColdFusion 9/10 ACE Exam, you must register with Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. You will need to provide your contact information and payment information before you can schedule an appointment to take the exam. The cost of the exam is $180 USD.

Once you have registered for the exam, you should receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. You will also be required to create a user profile in order to take the exam. After completing the registration process, you can then schedule an appointment at one of the authorized testing centers near you.

When taking the Adobe ColdFusion 9/10 ACE Exam, it is important to read all instructions carefully and answer all questions accurately in order to pass the exam. There are no prerequisites for taking this exam; however, it is recommended that applicants have at least two years of experience developing applications in ColdFusion prior to taking this test.

9. Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer

Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer is a certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in developing Java web services applications. This certification requires the candidate to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in developing web services using the Java EE 6 platform.

It takes approximately two to three months of study and preparation to become certified as an Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer. The candidate must pass two exams: 1Z0-897: Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer Certified Expert Exam and 1Z0-898: Java EE 6 Web Component Developer Certified Expert Exam.

In order to get certified as an Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer, the candidate must first register for the exams at the Oracle website. After registering for the exams, the candidate should purchase study materials from Oracle or any other third-party provider such as Udemy or Coursera to prepare for the exams. Once they have completed their studies and feel ready to take the exam, they should schedule their exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

The cost of becoming an Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer varies depending on where you are taking your exams and which study materials you choose to purchase. The cost of taking both exams is approximately $400 USD plus any additional costs associated with purchasing study materials.

10. Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 5/6 Web Component Developer

Oracle Certified Expert, Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 5/6 Web Component Developer is an Oracle certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in developing web components for the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 5 and 6. This certification is designed to validate the skills of experienced Java developers who have a deep understanding of web component development using JavaServer Faces (JSF), servlets, and JavaBeans.

To earn this certification, candidates must pass one exam: 1Z0-894: Java Platform, Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer Certified Expert Exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions and covers topics such as web services architecture, web service design patterns, SOAP and WSDL fundamentals, JAX-WS APIs and annotations, RESTful web services development with JAX-RS APIs and more.

It typically takes between one to three months to study for this exam depending on the individual’s experience level. Candidates should be familiar with programming in the Java language as well as have knowledge of the technologies used in building enterprise applications such as JSF, servlets, EJBs and more. It is recommended that candidates take advantage of available resources such as practice exams, study guides or instructor-led training courses to prepare for this exam.

The cost of taking this exam is $245 USD.

Do You Really Need a Java Web Developer Certificate?

The answer to the question of whether or not you need a Java Web Developer Certificate depends on your career aspirations. If you are looking to become a Java Web Developer, then having a certificate showing proof of your knowledge and skill in this field will be highly beneficial. It can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate that you have the necessary experience and qualifications for the job.

On the other hand, if you are already an experienced developer in Java technologies, then having a certificate may not be as important. You will still be able to showcase your expertise through portfolios, references and past projects. In this case, having a certificate may only serve as an additional qualification that could give you an edge over other candidates.

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if getting a Java Web Developer Certificate is worth your time and money. If it helps you get closer to achieving your career goals then it may be worth it, but if not then there might be better alternatives available.

Related: Java Web Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Java Web Developer Certifications

1. What is the value of a Java Web Developer certification?

A Java Web Developer certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the Java programming language and related web development technologies. It is a valuable asset for job seekers, as it can help them stand out from the competition and demonstrate their commitment to staying up to date on the latest technologies.

2. What topics are covered in a Java Web Developer certification?

The topics covered in a Java Web Developer certification typically include: fundamentals of object-oriented programming, web application development using JSP and servlets, XML, databases and SQL, web services, JavaScript, AJAX, HTML/CSS, security basics, debugging and troubleshooting techniques.

3. How do I prepare for a Java Web Developer certification?

You can prepare for a Java Web Developer certification by taking courses or tutorials that cover the topics listed above. You may also want to consider studying from official course materials provided by Oracle or other vendors that offer certifications in this area. Additionally, there are numerous online resources available which provide practice tests and other materials that can help you prepare for your exam.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a Java Web Developer certification?

With a Java Web Developer certification, you will be qualified for roles such as software engineer, web developer or programmer analyst. You may also be able to pursue roles such as system administrator or technical support specialist depending on your experience level and additional certifications you have obtained.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a Java Web Developer?

The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Java Web Developer varies depending on your prior experience and knowledge level in the subject matter areas covered by the exam(s). Generally speaking however it usually takes around 6 months to 1 year to complete all necessary coursework required for most certifications in this field.