Top 11 Junior Software Engineer Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for junior software engineers in the job market. They provide employers with evidence of a candidate's knowledge and expertise in specific technologies, programming languages, and software development processes. Certifications also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development, which is important for any engineering role. Additionally, certifications can help junior software engineers stand out from other applicants by providing proof that they have the necessary skills and experience to succeed in the role.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Junior Software Engineers and explain how they can help to advance a junior software engineer's career.

What are Junior Software Engineer Certifications?

Junior software engineer certification is a formal recognition of the skills and knowledge required to be a successful junior software engineer. It is typically awarded by an accredited institution or organization, such as a college or university, after completing specific coursework and demonstrating proficiency in relevant areas. The certification can help those who are pursuing careers in software engineering by providing them with an official recognition of their abilities and expertise. This recognition can be beneficial when applying for jobs in the field, as employers may view certified applicants more favorably than non-certified ones. Additionally, having a certification can also provide job seekers with additional networking opportunities since many employers prefer to hire certified professionals over non-certified ones. Finally, the certification can also serve as a way for junior software engineers to stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies in the field, allowing them to remain competitive in their chosen profession.

Pro Tip: Before signing up for a junior software engineer certification, make sure to research and compare different programs to find the best fit for your learning goals and career objectives. Consider factors such as cost, course content, instructor experience, and any additional resources or support available.

Related: What does a Junior Software Engineer do?

Top 11 Junior Software Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Junior Software Engineers today.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification that validates the skills and knowledge necessary to develop modern mobile and/or web applications and services. It demonstrates expertise in Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Azure, and the Microsoft Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) Suite.

To get the MCSD: App Builder certification, 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. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers worldwide. The total cost of both exams is $165 USD each.

It typically takes a few months to prepare for these exams depending on your experience level with the technologies involved. You can find study materials online such as books, tutorials, practice tests, etc., to help you prepare for the exams. Additionally, there are instructor-led classes offered by Microsoft Learning Partners around the world that can help you prepare for the exams as well.

2. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer (OCPJP 8) is a professional certification offered by Oracle that validates a programmer’s ability to develop applications using the Java programming language. It is designed for experienced Java developers who have already achieved the Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer (OCAJP 8) certification and want to demonstrate their expertise in developing applications with Java SE 8.

It typically takes around 6-8 months of preparation and practice to acquire the skills necessary to pass the OCPJP 8 exam. To get certified, candidates must pass two exams: 1Z0-808 (Java SE 8 Programmer I) and 1Z0-809 (Java SE 8 Programmer II). The cost of these exams varies from country to country but typically ranges from $245 - $300 USD per exam.

3. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is a globally recognized industry standard for entry-level IT professionals. It is designed to validate foundational knowledge and skills in areas such as installation, configuration, networking, security, troubleshooting, customer service and preventative maintenance of computer hardware and software.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exam. The amount of time required will depend on your current level of IT experience and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying.

To get CompTIA A+ certified, you must first pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams cover topics such as hardware components, mobile devices, networking technology, security fundamentals and operational procedures.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification exam varies by country but generally ranges from $200 - $300 USD per exam.

4. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It validates an individual’s ability to design and deploy secure, reliable, and cost-effective applications on the AWS platform. The certification exam covers topics such as understanding of core AWS services, security, architecture, pricing and support.

It typically takes around 2-3 months to prepare for the exam. To get the certification, you need to pass a multiple-choice exam that consists of 65 questions and has a time limit of 130 minutes. The exam fee is $150 USD.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended to have at least 6 months of hands-on experience with AWS services. You can also take online courses or attend instructor-led classes to help you understand all the concepts covered in the exam. Additionally, there are practice tests available which can be used to gauge your knowledge level before taking the actual exam.

5. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to help individuals learn the fundamentals of Microsoft technologies, such as Windows Server, Windows Client, Networking, Security and Database Administration. The MTA certification is an entry-level credential that provides a foundation for further study and professional development in technology-related disciplines.

The MTA certification can be achieved in two ways: through self-study or by attending an official Microsoft training course. To obtain the certification through self-study, individuals must pass one or more exams related to the technology they are studying. To attend an official Microsoft training course, individuals must register for a class at a local Microsoft Training Center or online with an approved Microsoft Learning Partner.

It typically takes about 3 months to prepare for and pass the necessary exams required for the MTA certification. The amount of time it takes to prepare depends on each individual’s learning style and experience level.

The cost of obtaining the MTA certification varies depending on how you choose to pursue it. If you opt to take a course from a Microsoft Learning Partner or Training Center, you will need to pay for the course itself as well as any associated fees such as exam vouchers or materials costs. If you opt to self-study, you will need to purchase exam vouchers from Microsoft directly which range in price from $60 - $150 per exam depending on your location and currency exchange rates.

6. Adobe Certified Associate in Visual Communication using Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Certified Associate in Visual Communication using Adobe Photoshop is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in using the Adobe Photoshop software. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in creating digital images, manipulating photos, and preparing files for print and web output.

To receive this certification, individuals must pass the Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) exam on Adobe Photoshop. The exam covers topics such as understanding layers and masks, working with selections, retouching images, preparing graphics for print and web output, and more. The exam is administered online through Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country you are located in but typically ranges from $80-$100 USD. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of 50 multiple-choice questions.

Once an individual has passed the ACA exam on Adobe Photoshop they will be awarded an official Adobe Certified Associate certificate which can be used to demonstrate their proficiency in using the software to potential employers or clients.

7. CIW Web Foundations Associate Certification

The CIW Web Foundations Associate Certification is a globally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of web professionals. It is designed to help web professionals demonstrate their expertise in the areas of web design, development, and security.

The certification consists of two exams: CIW Site Development Associate 1D0-610 and CIW Web Security Associate 1D0-621. The exams are taken online and take approximately 90 minutes each to complete.

To get the certification, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 70%. You can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Certiport websites.

The cost for each exam is $150 USD, which means that it will cost you $300 USD in total to get the CIW Web Foundations Associate Certification.

8. Apple Certified Associate – Mac Integration 10.10

Apple Certified Associate – Mac Integration 10.10 is an entry-level certification that validates your knowledge of Mac OS X and Apple's professional applications. It is designed to help you understand the basics of integrating Macs into a Windows environment, as well as troubleshooting and maintaining them.

How long does it take to get it? It typically takes around 30 hours of study time to prepare for the exam and pass it successfully.

How to get it? You can obtain the certification by taking an online or in-person course offered by Apple or its authorized training centers.

How much does it cost? The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take the course, but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

9. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage Oracle Database 12c. This certification is offered by Oracle University, a division of Oracle Corporation.

To become an Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional, you must pass the Oracle Database 12c: Administration I exam (1Z0-062). This exam covers topics such as database architecture, installation, configuration, security, backup and recovery, performance tuning, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to take the exam, you must first purchase an exam voucher from Oracle University. Exam vouchers are available for purchase online or through authorized resellers. The cost of an exam voucher varies depending on where it is purchased; however, it typically costs around $245 USD.

Once you have purchased your voucher, you can register for the exam at Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers worldwide. Once registered for the exam, you will receive instructions on how to schedule your test date and time at a nearby testing center.

After passing the 1Z0-062 exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional credential. This credential is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam.

10. Zend Certified PHP Engineer

Zend Certified PHP Engineer is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of experienced PHP developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and skills in developing applications with the Zend Framework.

The Zend Certified PHP Engineer exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as object oriented programming, web services, security, performance tuning, and more. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam at zend.com/php-certification. Once registered, you can take the exam at any authorized testing center or online using the Zend Certification Online Proctoring Service. The cost of the exam varies by location but typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, your certification will be valid for three years. You can renew your certification by taking a new version of the exam or by attending an approved training course offered by Zend Technologies or its partners.

11. Salesforce Platform Developer I

Salesforce Platform Developer I is a certification program for developers who want to build custom applications on the Salesforce platform. It is designed to help developers create and maintain custom applications that utilize the Salesforce platform. The certification covers topics such as Apex programming, Visualforce development, and application security.

The duration of the course varies depending on the individual's experience level, but it typically takes between two and four weeks to complete. In order to get certified, individuals must pass both an online exam and a hands-on project assessment. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider, but it usually ranges from $200-$400 USD.

In order to get certified, individuals must first complete a training program offered by an authorized Salesforce partner or instructor. Once they have completed their training program, they can then register for their exam through Salesforce University’s official website. After passing both exams, individuals will receive their certification which will be valid for two years.

Do You Really Need a Junior Software Engineer Certificate?

No, you do not need a junior software engineer certificate to work in a software engineering role. The most important thing when it comes to pursuing a career in software engineering is having the right skills and knowledge. A certificate can provide an extra layer of credibility and recognition, but it will not make or break your career.

It is true that some employers may prefer candidates who have earned a junior software engineer certificate, as this indicates a greater level of commitment and dedication to the field. However, it is also possible to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment without having such certification. You can do this by taking part in coding challenges, attending hackathons, and other activities related to software development. Additionally, you may want to consider obtaining additional certifications from vendors such as Microsoft or Oracle that show proficiency in specific technologies or products related to software engineering.

In short, while having a junior software engineer certificate can be beneficial for some roles, it is not required for all positions within the industry. Ultimately, the most important factor when seeking employment in this field is demonstrating your technical skills and knowledge through relevant experience and certifications.

Related: Junior Software Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Junior Software Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is a Junior Software Engineer Certification?

A1. A Junior Software Engineer Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's proficiency in the fundamentals of software engineering. It typically covers topics such as software development, databases, system design and architecture, programming languages, and project management.

Q2. How do I obtain a Junior Software Engineer Certification?

A2. To obtain a Junior Software Engineer Certification, you need to pass an accredited certification exam. You can find accredited certification exams through organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), International Association of Software Architects (IASA), or the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE).

Q3. What are the benefits of having a Junior Software Engineer Certification?

A3. Having a Junior Software Engineer Certification shows employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to work as an entry-level software engineer. It also helps boost your resume and opens up job opportunities within the software engineering field. Additionally, certifications may qualify you for higher salaries or promotions within your current position.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a Junior Software Engineer?

A4: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on how much preparation you put into it beforehand. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 3 months to 1 year depending on your experience level and study habits.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as a Junior Software Engineer?

A5: Yes, most certifying bodies require applicants to have some basic knowledge in programming languages such as Java or C++ before taking their exam(s). Additionally, some certifications may require prior experience with software engineering principles and concepts prior to taking their exam(s).