Top 10 JavaScript Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for a JavaScript developer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and mastery of the language, as well as an understanding of best practices and industry standards. They are also useful for employers to quickly assess the skills and knowledge of potential applicants. Certifications provide tangible proof that a candidate has invested the time, money, and effort into learning the technology and mastering it to a point where they can pass an exam or complete a course. This can help set them apart from other candidates who may have similar experience but lack certification.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for JavaScript Developers and explains how they can contribute to a javascript developer's career, providing an overview of the benefits of certification in the field.

What are JavaScript Developer Certifications?

Javascript developer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in using the JavaScript programming language. It is designed to help employers, recruiters, and other stakeholders identify qualified candidates for web development roles. This certification can also be beneficial to job seekers who wish to demonstrate their expertise with the technology.

This certification validates the knowledge and skills necessary for developing web applications using JavaScript. It tests an individual’s understanding of core concepts such as variables, functions, objects, arrays, loops, and more. Additionally, it covers topics related to front-end frameworks such as React and AngularJS. An individual who completes this certification will have a comprehensive understanding of how to use JavaScript to create interactive websites and apps.

Having this certification can provide job seekers with a competitive edge when applying for web development roles. It can also help them stand out from other applicants by proving their knowledge of JavaScript and related technologies. Furthermore, it can open up new career opportunities in the field of web development or enable individuals to pursue freelancing opportunities or work remotely from home.

Pro Tip: Before beginning your journey to becoming a JavaScript developer, make sure to research the various certifications available and select one that best fits your needs. Look for certifications that are recognized by major tech companies and industry professionals. Additionally, make sure you understand the requirements of the certification, as well as any additional resources or courses you may need in order to complete it.

Related: What does a JavaScript Developer do?

Top 10 JavaScript Developer Certifications

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

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification program designed to validate the skills of professional developers who design, build, and maintain cloud applications and services on the Microsoft platform. It is an advanced-level certification that demonstrates expertise in developing modern web and mobile applications using HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, ASP.NET MVC, Entity Framework, Azure Services, and other related technologies.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the certification process. To become certified as an MCSD: App Builder, you must first pass two exams: Exam 70-480 – Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3; and Exam 70-486 – Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers and cost $165 each.

Once you have passed both exams successfully, you will need to submit your transcripts as proof of completion to Microsoft for review. Once your transcripts have been reviewed and approved by Microsoft, you will be awarded your MCSD: App Builder certification.

The cost of the MCSD: App Builder certification varies depending on which training provider you choose to use for preparation materials such as books or online courses.

2. Oracle JavaScript Certification Program

The Oracle JavaScript Certification Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of developers who use JavaScript in their development projects. This certification program is offered by Oracle University, the official training provider for Oracle products.

The Oracle JavaScript Certification Program consists of two exams: 1Z0-815: Java SE 11 Programmer I and 1Z0-816: Java SE 11 Programmer II. The first exam covers basic concepts such as variables, functions, objects, classes, and control structures. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as web services, database access, security, and performance optimization.

The duration of the program depends on the individual's learning speed and commitment to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it takes around 6 months to complete both exams successfully.

To get certified in Oracle JavaScript Certification Program, you need to register with Oracle University and purchase a course package that includes both exams. The cost of the course package varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

Once you have purchased the course package, you will be able to access study materials such as practice tests and video tutorials that will help you prepare for the exams. After completing all required coursework and passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive an official certificate from Oracle University confirming your achievement of Oracle JavaScript Certification Program certification status.

3. Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCPE)

The Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCPE) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the development of PHP-based applications. The certification tests a candidate’s knowledge and skills in areas such as database integration, security, object-oriented programming, web services, and other related topics.

It takes approximately two to three months to complete the certification process. To get certified, candidates must first register for the exam on the Zend website. Once registered, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes around 90 minutes to complete.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your geographic location. In North America it costs $195 USD while in Europe it costs €175 EURO. After completing the exam, you will receive a score report within 48 hours and if you pass, you will be awarded the Zend Certified PHP Engineer certificate.

4. Certified Node.js Developer (CNJS)

Certified Node.js Developer (CNJS) is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in developing applications using the Node.js platform. The certification exam is administered by the Node.js Foundation and covers topics such as core concepts, debugging, performance optimization, and security best practices.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on real-world scenarios. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of Node.js by correctly answering at least 70% of the questions in order to pass the exam and become certified.

In order to get Certified Node.js Developer (CNJS) certification, candidates must first register for the exam online and pay a fee of $150 USD. After registering, they will receive access to an online testing platform where they can take the actual exam.

Once candidates have successfully completed the exam, they will receive a certificate that confirms their status as a Certified Node.js Developer (CNJS). This certificate will be valid for two years from the date of issuance, after which time it must be renewed in order to remain valid.

5. Professional JavaScript Developer (PJSD)

Professional JavaScript Developer (PJSD) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced JavaScript developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a mastery of the fundamentals of JavaScript development, as well as advanced concepts such as object-oriented programming, asynchronous programming, and more.

The PJSD certification exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To become certified, you must pass the exam with at least 70% accuracy. The exam covers topics such as core language features, web application development, debugging techniques, and best practices for writing maintainable code.

To get started on your path to becoming a Professional JavaScript Developer, you will need to purchase the official study guide from the PJSD website. This guide contains all the material necessary to prepare for and pass the certification exam. Additionally, there are online resources available for further study if needed.

The cost of the PJSD certification program varies depending on how you choose to take it; however, generally speaking it costs around $300 USD for the official study guide and exam fee combined.

6. Salesforce Platform Developer I Certification

Salesforce Platform Developer I Certification is a professional certification offered by Salesforce. It is designed to help developers understand the fundamentals of the Salesforce platform and how to build custom applications on it. The certification covers topics such as Apex, Visualforce, SOQL, and Lightning Components.

It typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete the exam preparation and pass the certification exam. To get started with the certification process, you will need to register for an exam at Webassessor.com/salesforce and pay a fee of $200 USD. Once registered, you can access study materials from Trailhead or other online resources to prepare for your exam.

The exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions that must be completed in 90 minutes or less. You must score at least 65% correct answers in order to pass the exam and earn your certification. Upon passing the exam, you will receive an email with a digital badge that you can use to showcase your accomplishment on social media profiles or resumes.

7. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers a broad range of topics, including hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, troubleshooting and more.

It typically takes around six months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. This includes studying material such as textbooks, online resources and practice exams. There are also instructor-led courses available from CompTIA or other training providers.

To get certified, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and contain 90 multiple choice questions each. The cost of the exams can vary depending on your location but generally ranges from $200 - $300 USD per exam.

Once you have passed both exams you will receive your CompTIA A+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of passing the last exam. You can then renew your certification by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exams when they expire.

8. CIW JavaScript Specialist Certification

The CIW JavaScript Specialist Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in the use of JavaScript. It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of web development and scripting with JavaScript, as well as the ability to create interactive and dynamic web pages.

To get the CIW JavaScript Specialist Certification, you must pass one exam: 1D0-635 JavaScript Specialist. This exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions, which must be completed within 90 minutes. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location, but typically ranges between $150-$200 USD.

In order to prepare for this exam, it is recommended that you have at least six months of experience working with HTML and CSS, as well as some experience using JavaScript. You can also take advantage of various online resources such as tutorial videos or practice exams to help you prepare for the test.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CIW JavaScript Specialist Certification, which is valid for two years from the date of issue. After two years, you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

9. Adobe Certified Expert: Javascript & Ajax

Adobe Certified Expert: Javascript & Ajax is an official certification from Adobe that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the use of JavaScript and AJAX technologies. The certification is designed to demonstrate a deep understanding of client-side scripting and AJAX development, as well as the ability to create dynamic web applications using these technologies.

The exam for this certification consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The cost of the exam is $180 USD. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least 6 months experience working with JavaScript and AJAX technologies.

In order to get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once you have passed the exam, your name will be added to Adobe’s official list of Certified Experts in JavaScript & AJAX Technologies. You will also receive a digital badge that can be displayed on your website or social media profiles as well as an official certificate from Adobe.

10. W3C Front-End Web Developer Certificate

The W3C Front-End Web Developer Certificate is a professional certification program offered by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). It is designed to help web developers demonstrate their knowledge and skills in front-end web development. The certificate covers topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, accessibility, and performance.

It takes approximately 6 months to complete the certificate program. To get the certificate you must pass an online assessment that tests your knowledge of web development best practices. You must also submit two projects that demonstrate your ability to apply those best practices in real-world scenarios.

The cost of the W3C Front-End Web Developer Certificate is $399 USD. This fee covers the cost of the online assessment and project submission process, as well as access to additional resources and support from W3C staff throughout the duration of your studies.

Do You Really Need a JavaScript Developer Certificate?

No, you do not need a JavaScript Developer Certificate to become a JavaScript developer. Although having a certificate can be beneficial in some cases, it is not necessary for most developers, especially those who already have experience coding in JavaScript. A certificate may help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or internships, but it's not necessarily required.

In general, employers are more interested in your knowledge and experience than any certifications you may have. They want to know that you can write code in JavaScript and understand the language well enough to solve problems. If you can demonstrate this through your portfolio of work or other projects, then that will be much more valuable than any certificate you may have.

Additionally, there are many free resources available online to learn JavaScript and build up your skillset without needing to get certified. You can read tutorials, watch videos, and practice coding on websites like Codecademy or FreeCodeCamp. Doing this will help you gain the knowledge and experience that employers look for in potential developers.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual developer as to whether they think getting a JavaScript Developer Certificate would benefit them or not. For most people though, it is not necessary if they already have the right skills and experience with the language.

Related: JavaScript Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About JavaScript Developer Certifications

Q1: What are the benefits of getting a JavaScript developer certification?

A1: A JavaScript developer certification can help demonstrate your skills and knowledge to employers, which can help you stand out when applying for jobs. It can also open up opportunities for professional development, career growth, and higher salaries.

Q2: Are there any prerequisites for taking a JavaScript developer certification exam?

A2: Yes, most certification exams require that you have some prior experience with coding in JavaScript and related web technologies such as HTML and CSS. Additionally, you may be required to have a certain level of education or take other courses before you can take the exam.

Q3: How long does it take to complete a JavaScript developer certification program?

A3: The length of time it takes to complete a certification program varies depending on the type of program you choose. Most programs consist of online courses or training sessions that can be completed at your own pace. Some programs may also include hands-on projects or assessments that require more time commitment.

Q4: What types of jobs are available for those with a JavaScript developer certification?

A4: Those with a JavaScript developer certification can find employment opportunities in various fields such as software development, web development, mobile app development, game development, and more.

Q5: Are there any free resources available to help me prepare for my JavaScript developer certification exam?

A5: Yes! There are many free online resources available to help prepare for your exam including tutorials, practice tests, study guides, and more. Additionally, many organizations offer free or discounted training courses specifically designed to help aspiring developers prepare for their certifications.