Top 11 Language Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for language specialists because they demonstrate their proficiency and expertise in the language. They can be used to validate a specialist's qualifications and show potential employers that they have the necessary skills to do the job. Certifications provide an added layer of credibility, which can help set language specialists apart from other applicants in a competitive job market. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities for language specialists, such as teaching or translating for higher-level clients.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Language Specialists and explains how they can help to advance a language specialist's career.

What are Language Specialist Certifications?

Language specialist certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes individuals who have acquired and demonstrated expertise in a particular language. This certification is often offered by universities, language schools, or other organizations, and typically requires the successful completion of a comprehensive exam.

Having a language specialist certification can be beneficial for individuals who want to work in the field of translation or interpretation, or who wish to teach a foreign language. The certifications demonstrate to potential employers and clients that the individual has achieved an advanced level of proficiency in a specific language. Additionally, having this kind of certification may help an individual stand out from other job applicants as it shows that they have taken their studies seriously and are committed to mastering a new language.

The requirements for obtaining a language specialist certification vary depending on the organization offering it; however, most include tests covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation and cultural knowledge. The tests are designed to assess the applicant’s ability to understand and communicate effectively in the target language. Individuals may also be required to demonstrate their ability to read and write in the target language at an appropriate level for their profession.

Overall, having a language specialist certification can open up more opportunities for those seeking employment in translation or interpretation-related fields. It can also serve as recognition of an individual’s dedication to mastering another language.

Pro Tip: When considering language specialist certification, make sure to research the requirements of each program thoroughly. Many certifications require coursework or an exam, so it is important to know what is expected and how to prepare for it. Additionally, look into any professional organizations that offer language specialist certifications and see if there are any special benefits associated with them.

Related: What does a Language Specialist do?

Top 11 Language Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Language Specialists today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program for professionals who design and develop custom solutions using Microsoft technologies. The MCSD certification demonstrates expertise in designing and developing modern applications, services, and components that run on the Windows platform.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to complete the MCSD certification process, depending on the experience level of the individual. To get certified, individuals must pass four exams related to web development, app development, cloud development, or data engineering. The exams are offered through Microsoft’s online testing platform or at a local Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost of each exam varies based on location and other factors. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD. Therefore, the total cost of getting certified can range from $660 USD to $660 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking the exams at a local Pearson VUE testing center.

2. Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP)

Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP) is a certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate an individual's expertise in the Java programming language. It is designed for experienced Java developers who want to validate their programming skills and knowledge of the language.

The OCPJP certification consists of two exams:

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

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

It typically takes about 4-6 months to prepare for the exams and get certified. To get certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 65% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $245-$300 USD per exam.

3. IBM Certified Solutions Expert (CSE)

IBM Certified Solutions Expert (CSE) is a professional certification offered by IBM that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in designing, developing, and deploying solutions using IBM products. This certification is designed to demonstrate a mastery of the skills required to design, develop, and deploy high-quality solutions with IBM products.

To become an IBM Certified Solutions Expert (CSE), you must pass one or more exams that test your knowledge and skills in the areas of application development, data management, cloud computing, security, and other related topics. You can find the list of available exams on the IBM website.

The amount of time it takes to get certified as an IBM CSE depends on how much experience you have with the technology and how well you prepare for the exam(s). Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from several weeks to several months of studying before taking an exam.

In order to get certified as an IBM CSE, you must purchase an exam voucher from the IBM website. The cost of each exam varies depending on which exam you are taking; however, most exams range from $200-$300 USD per exam.

4. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of proficiency in Adobe products. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in Adobe software and stand out from the competition.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual’s experience and knowledge. Generally, it takes about 6 months to prepare for the exam, but this can vary depending on the individual’s familiarity with Adobe products.

To become an ACE, you must first take and pass one or more exams related to Adobe products. These exams are available online and cost between $180 and $200 per exam. Once you have passed all required exams, you will be awarded your ACE certification.

The cost of becoming an ACE varies depending on the number of exams taken and the region in which they are taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $1000 to become an ACE in North America, while it may cost less in other regions.

5. Apple Certified Technical Coordinator (ACTC)

Apple Certified Technical Coordinator (ACTC) is a certification program offered by Apple Inc. that validates the technical expertise of IT professionals who are responsible for managing and supporting Apple products in an enterprise environment. The ACTC certification demonstrates a professional’s ability to configure, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Mac OS X and iOS devices as well as other Apple products such as AirPort base stations, Apple TVs, and iPads.

The ACTC certification requires passing two exams: the Mac Integration Basics 10.10 exam and the Mac Management Basics 10.10 exam. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. The cost of each exam is $150 USD.

In order to prepare for the exams, candidates should have experience working with Mac OS X or iOS devices in an enterprise environment as well as knowledge of topics such as network configuration, user accounts management, system security, remote access technologies, and more. In addition to studying for the exams on their own, candidates can also take advantage of training courses offered by Apple Authorized Training Centers (AATCs).

Once both exams have been passed successfully, candidates will receive their ACTC certification from Apple Inc., which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

6. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is designed to demonstrate competency in areas such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around 90 hours of study and practice to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. However, it can take longer depending on your experience and level of knowledge. The exam consists of two parts: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Each part has a maximum score of 900 points.

To get certified, you must pass both exams within one year of each other. You can register for the exams through CompTIA’s website or through a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost for each exam is $226 USD ($113 USD for each part).

7. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program from Red Hat, Inc., the world’s leading provider of open source solutions. The RHCSA certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to perform essential system administration tasks on a Red Hat Enterprise Linux system.

The RHCSA exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and consists of two parts: a hands-on lab exam and a multiple choice exam. The hands-on lab exam requires you to perform various tasks on a live Red Hat Enterprise Linux system, while the multiple choice exam tests your knowledge of the topics covered in the course material.

In order to become an RHCSA, you must first complete an official Red Hat training course or self-study course material. After completing the course material, you can then register for and take the RHCSA exam at any authorized testing center.

The cost of taking the RHCSA exam varies by location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.

8. Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCPE)

Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCPE) is a certification program designed to assess the knowledge and skills of professional PHP developers. It is offered by Zend, the company behind the popular open-source scripting language, PHP. The certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in developing web applications using PHP and related technologies.

The ZCPE certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on lab exam. The written exam covers topics such as object-oriented programming, security, performance tuning, debugging, and database integration. The lab exam requires candidates to develop an application using PHP and related technologies.

The entire process takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must register for the exams at least three weeks in advance of their desired test date. The cost of the certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200 to $300 USD.

To prepare for the ZCPE certification, candidates should have experience working with PHP and related technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, XML, and AJAX. Additionally, it is recommended that candidates review available study materials such as books or online tutorials prior to taking the exams.

9. Python Institute PCEP Certification

Python Institute PCEP certification is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s knowledge of the Python programming language. It is designed to demonstrate that a candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge to use Python for basic programming tasks. This certification does not require any prior programming experience, making it ideal for those just starting out in the field of computer programming.

The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 70% correct answers. The exam covers topics such as data types, control flow, functions and modules, classes and objects, input/output operations, exceptions handling and debugging.

In order to get certified, candidates must register with the Python Institute and pay a fee of $59 USD. Once registered, they can take the online exam at any time within one year from registration date. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their certificate via email within two weeks of completion.

The cost of the Python Institute PCEP Certification is $59 USD.

10. C++ Institute CPA Certification

The C++ Institute Certified Professional Programmer (CPA) is a professional certification program designed to assess the competence of software developers in the C++ programming language. The certification is offered by the C++ Institute, an international organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of C++.

The CPA certification requires successful completion of two exams: the Core Programming Exam and the Advanced Programming Exam. Both exams are based on the current version of the C++ programming language, which is currently C++17. The Core Programming Exam covers basic concepts such as data types, classes, functions, operators, control flow, and memory management. The Advanced Programming Exam covers more advanced topics such as templates, exceptions, algorithms, design patterns, and concurrency.

The Core Programming Exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete while the Advanced Programming Exam takes approximately 8 hours to complete. Candidates must pass both exams in order to become certified.

The cost of taking both exams varies depending on geographical location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD for both exams combined.

11. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in technology. It is an entry-level certification that can be used as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).

The MTA certification consists of nine core exams that cover topics such as networking, software development, security, and database administration. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and covers a variety of topics related to the technology field.

To get the MTA certification, you must pass all nine exams. The exams are offered online or at authorized testing centers around the world. Once you have passed all nine exams, you will receive your MTA certification.

The cost of the MTA certification varies depending on where you take the exam and which package you choose. Most packages range from $99-$299 USD for all nine exams.

Overall, it typically takes about two months to get your MTA certification if you are studying full-time for the exams.

Do You Really Need a Language Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you want to work as a language specialist, then a language specialist certificate can be beneficial in many ways. It can give you the opportunity to specialize in a certain area of language, such as translation, interpretation, linguistics or teaching. It can also give you the opportunity to demonstrate your proficiency in a particular language and show potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to do the job.

On the other hand, if you are already working in a related field or have experience with languages, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain a language specialist certificate. In these cases, having an adequate level of knowledge and experience may be enough to get ahead. Additionally, if your main goal is simply to improve your understanding of a particular language or increase your fluency, then there are many other ways that this can be achieved without having to spend money on obtaining formal certification.

Ultimately, whether or not it is worth obtaining a language specialist certificate will depend on your specific situation and goals. However, for those looking for more formal recognition of their expertise in a certain language or seeking entry into related fields such as translation or interpretation, then obtaining such certification could prove invaluable.

Related: Language Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Language Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is a Language Specialist Certification?

A1: A Language Specialist Certification is a credential awarded to individuals who demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language. This type of certification is typically earned by completing an accredited program, passing an exam, or meeting certain educational requirements.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Language Specialist?

A2: To become certified as a Language Specialist, you must complete an accredited program, pass an exam, or meet specific educational requirements. You can find more information about these requirements on the website of the organization offering the certification.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified as a Language Specialist?

A3: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Language Specialist will depend on the certification program you choose and your level of commitment. Generally speaking, most programs require several months of study before you are eligible for certification.

Q4: What type of jobs can I get with a Language Specialist Certification?

A4: With a Language Specialist Certification, you may be eligible for various roles such as translator, interpreter, teacher, editor, and other related positions within the language industry.

Q5: Is there any cost associated with becoming certified as a Language Specialist?

A5: Yes, there are usually fees associated with becoming certified as a Language Specialist. These fees vary depending on the organization offering the certification and the type of program you choose.