Top 11 Junior Java Developer Certifications

Certifications are an important way for junior java developers to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the language. They provide employers with a way to differentiate between candidates, helping them to make more informed hiring decisions. Certifications also demonstrate that the candidate has taken the time and effort to invest in their own development and is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and best practices. Ultimately, certifications can help junior java developers stand out from other applicants and be seen as more attractive job candidates.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Junior Java Developers and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Junior Java Developer Certifications?

Junior Java Developer certification is a professional certification provided by Oracle that recognizes the expertise of developers in the Java programming language. This certification validates an individual's knowledge and skills in developing applications using the Java platform, including both the standard and enterprise editions. It also helps employers to identify qualified candidates for jobs involving Java development. This certification demonstrates that a developer has a solid understanding of core Java language features, object-oriented programming techniques, and best practices for developing robust applications with Java. It also proves that they have experience in building GUI applications, database connectivity, web services, and mobile application development with Java technologies. The certification can help developers advance their careers by showing potential employers their proficiency in this popular language. Additionally, it will provide them with the opportunity to take on more challenging projects within their current organization or make themselves more attractive to other employers who are looking for experienced professionals in this field.

Pro Tip: When considering a junior Java developer certification, make sure to research the different types of certifications available and find one that best suits your experience and career goals. Additionally, be sure to read up on the requirements and prerequisites for the certification you are interested in to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria. Finally, consider taking an online course or attending a boot camp to increase your knowledge in Java development and help prepare you for any tests or exams that may be required for the certification.

Related: What does a Junior Java Developer do?

Top 11 Junior Java Developer Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer (OCAJP 8) is an entry-level certification for programmers who are proficient in the Java programming language. This certification validates a programmer’s knowledge of the core concepts and syntax of the Java language, as well as their ability to write code that meets industry standards.

To get certified, you need to pass two exams:

1. Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer I (1Z0-808)

2. Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer II (1Z0-809).

These exams cover topics such as object-oriented programming principles, data types and variables, operators and flow control statements, classes and objects, arrays and collections, exception handling and more. Both exams take about 2 hours each to complete.

The cost for each exam varies depending on where you take them. Generally speaking, it can range from $150 - $250 per exam.

2. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced Java developers. It is an intermediate-level certification that demonstrates a developer’s ability to design, develop, test, debug and deploy Java applications.

It typically takes 6-12 months of preparation to get certified. The preparation includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests and gaining hands-on experience with Java.

To get Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer certification you must pass the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP), Java SE 8 Programmer I exam (1Z0-808) and the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP), Java SE 8 Programmer II exam (1Z0-809).

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it costs around $245 per exam in the US.

3. Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 6 Web Component Developer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 6 Web Component Developer is a certification program offered by Oracle that recognizes an individual’s ability to develop web components using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 6. It is designed for experienced developers who have a strong understanding of the Java EE platform and its related technologies.

The certification consists of 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). The first exam covers topics such as web component development, web services development, and application security. The second exam covers topics such as XML processing, web services design and deployment, and SOAP-based messaging.

The total time required to complete both exams is approximately 8 hours. This includes study time as well as the actual exam time.

To get certified in this program, you need to register with Oracle and purchase a voucher for each exam. The cost of the voucher for each exam varies depending on your country of residence. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD per exam or $600 USD for both exams combined.

4. Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP)

Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) is a certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in the Java programming language. It is designed to measure an individual's ability to develop, deploy and debug applications written in the Java programming language. The certification is valid for three years from the date of completion and can be renewed by taking a new exam.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test an individual’s knowledge of the Java language, its APIs, and core libraries. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and requires a score of at least 75% to pass.

In order to become certified, individuals must register for the exam through Oracle’s website and pay a fee which varies depending on location. Once registered, individuals must attend an approved training course or self-study before taking the exam. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their certification via email within 24 hours.

The cost of becoming Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP) varies depending on location but typically ranges between $150-$300 USD for the exam fee alone. Additional fees may apply if attending an approved training course or purchasing study materials such as books or online courses.

5. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals is a certification program designed to provide an entry-level understanding of databases and database technologies. It is intended for those who are new to the field of databases or need to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals. The MTA Database Fundamentals exam covers topics such as database design, data manipulation, data storage, and query optimization.

The MTA Database Fundamentals exam takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To earn the certification, you must score at least 700 out of 1000 points. The cost of the exam is $127 USD.

To get started with the MTA Database Fundamentals exam, you will first need to register for an account on Microsoft’s website. Once your account is created, you can purchase the exam voucher from Microsoft’s online store and then schedule your exam at a local testing center or through an online proctoring service. After completing the exam, you will receive your results within 24 hours and can then print out your certificate if you passed.

6. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Software Development Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program that provides a foundation of technology skills and knowledge for individuals who are seeking to build a career in technology. The MTA Software Development Fundamentals certification covers the fundamentals of software development, including topics such as object-oriented programming, web applications, databases, and security. This certification is designed to help individuals develop the skills needed to pursue a career in software development.

The MTA Software Development Fundamentals exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. It consists of 40-60 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as object-oriented programming, web applications, databases, and security. To earn the certification, you must score at least 700 out of 1000 points on the exam.

To get the MTA Software Development Fundamentals certification, you must first purchase an exam voucher from Microsoft or an authorized testing center. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where you purchase it from but typically ranges from $100-$150 USD. Once you have purchased your voucher, you can register for and take the exam at any authorized testing center or online through Microsoft’s website. After passing the exam, you will receive your official MTA Software Development Fundamentals certificate via email within two weeks.

7. IBM Certified Solution Developer – Rational Application Developer for WebSphere Software V8.0

IBM Certified Solution Developer – Rational Application Developer for WebSphere Software V8.0 is an IBM certification that validates a developer’s skills in developing applications for WebSphere using the Rational Application Developer (RAD) development environment. This certification requires a deep understanding of RAD tools and techniques, as well as knowledge of the WebSphere server environment.

The exam associated with this certification is C2180-277: IBM Certified Solution Developer - Rational Application Developer for WebSphere Software V8.0. It consists of 60 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. The topics covered include: RAD Tools, WebSphere Server Administration, Java EE Development, XML and Web Services, Performance Tuning and Debugging, and Security.

To get certified you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of the exam is $200 USD but may vary depending on your location. After registering for the exam you will receive an authorization code which you can use to schedule your test date and time at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center near you.

Once you have completed the exam you will receive your results within 5 business days from the date of completion. If you pass the exam then you will be awarded the IBM Certified Solution Developer – Rational Application Developer for WebSphere Software V8.0 certification.

8. IBM Certified Solution Developer – WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration

IBM Certified Solution Developer – WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration is an IBM certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of professionals in the field of WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration. It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the concepts and tasks required to successfully deploy, configure, manage, and troubleshoot WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to prepare for this certification exam as it requires a deep understanding of the topics related to WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration such as installation, configuration, administration, security, clustering, performance tuning and more. To get the certification one must pass the IBM C9530-519: IBM WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration exam which consists of 60 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. The cost for this exam is $200 USD (or its equivalent in local currency).

9. IBM Certified System Administrator – WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration

IBM Certified System Administrator – WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration is an IBM certification that validates a professional’s skills and knowledge in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration. This certification is designed to demonstrate a candidate’s ability to install, configure and maintain WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study and practice to prepare for this certification exam. The recommended courses are: IBM WebSphere Application Server V7.0 Network Deployment Core Administration (WA590G), IBM WebSphere Application Server V7.0 Performance Tuning (WA591G) and IBM WebSphere Application Server Advanced Security Concepts (WA592G).

To get this certification, you must pass the C9560-505: IBM Certified System Administrator - WebSphere Application Server Network Deployment V7.0 Core Administration exam with a minimum score of 71%. The exam fee is $200 USD or the equivalent in local currency.

10. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a technician’s competency in computer hardware and operating systems. It is designed to measure the skills required for entry-level IT support roles, such as PC repair technicians, help desk technicians, and system administrators.

It typically takes about 12 months to complete the CompTIA A+ certification process. This includes studying for the two exams (220-901 and 220-902) that make up the certification requirements. The exams are available at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

To become certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 100–900. You can purchase exam vouchers from CompTIA or through a third-party vendor. Exam vouchers cost $211 each in the US and $228 in Canada.

In addition to the exam fees, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exams such as books, practice tests, and online courses.

11. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ certification is an industry-recognized credential designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in network infrastructure, network operations, and network security. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as troubleshooting, configuring, and managing wired and wireless networks. The exam also covers emerging technologies such as cloud computing, virtualization, and unified communications.

The CompTIA Network+ certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam. To maintain the certification, you must earn continuing education units (CEUs) or retake the exam every three years.

To get CompTIA Network+ certified, you must pass one exam: N10-007. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and takes up to 90 minutes to complete. You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

The cost of CompTIA Network+ certification varies depending on your location and currency exchange rate but typically costs between $250 - $300 USD.

Do You Really Need a Junior Java Developer Certificate?

When considering whether or not to pursue a junior Java developer certificate, it is important to consider the value that such a credential could bring to your career. The answer depends largely on your individual goals and the type of employment you are seeking.

For those who are just starting out in software development, a junior Java developer certificate can be an important first step in their career path. It serves as an indicator of basic knowledge and shows potential employers that they have been trained in the language and have some experience with it. This may give them an edge over other candidates who lack the same level of certification. Additionally, many employers require certification for certain roles, so having this credential can make you more competitive when applying for positions.

On the other hand, if you already have some experience with Java, then obtaining a junior Java developer certificate may not be necessary. Your prior knowledge and experience should be enough to demonstrate your proficiency in the language. In this case, investing time and money into obtaining additional certification may not be worth it unless there are specific job requirements that necessitate it.

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to obtain a junior Java developer certificate is up to each individual’s personal circumstance and goals. Those just starting out may find value in having this credential while experienced developers should assess if their current skillset meets employer’s needs before investing in additional training.

Related: Junior Java Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Junior Java Developer Certifications

Q1: What is a Junior Java Developer Certification?

A1: A Junior Java Developer Certification is a certification program that validates a developer’s knowledge and proficiency in the Java programming language. It provides an industry standard for employers to measure the skills and abilities of potential hires.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Junior Java Developer?

A2: To become certified as a Junior Java Developer, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as Oracle or Sun Microsystems. The exam covers topics related to the fundamentals of the Java language, including object-oriented programming, classes, methods, and more.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified?

A3: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam and how quickly you can complete it. Generally speaking, it usually takes between two and four months to prepare for the exam and earn your certification.

Q4: What are the benefits of being a certified Junior Java Developer?

A4: By becoming a certified Junior Java Developer, you will demonstrate your expertise in the language and gain recognition from employers in this field. This will help you stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions related to software development or programming. Additionally, having this certification may lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for taking the Junior Java Developer Certification Exam?

A5: Yes, there are some prerequisites that must be met before taking the exam. These include having prior experience with programming languages like C++ or Python, as well as familiarity with object-oriented programming concepts such as classes, objects, methods, constructors etc. Additionally, some organizations also require applicants to have completed at least one year of college coursework in computer science or software engineering before taking the exam.