Top 11 Lead Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a lead analyst in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge in their chosen field. They also show employers that the analyst has taken the necessary steps to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. With a certification, employers can rest assured that the lead analyst is well-versed in their area of expertise, making them an ideal candidate for the job. Certifications also provide an additional level of credibility and trustworthiness, which is invaluable when it comes to hiring someone for a leadership role.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Lead Analysts and explain how they can help advance a Lead Analyst's career.

What are Lead Analyst Certifications?

Lead Analyst Certification is a professional certification that provides recognition of an individual’s knowledge and skills in the area of business analytics. The certification is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in data analysis, modeling, and reporting. This certification can help individuals gain recognition for their skills in the field and advance their career opportunities by providing evidence that they possess the specialized knowledge needed to be successful in the field. Additionally, it can provide employers with assurance that their analysts have the necessary skills to accurately interpret data, create effective models, and generate meaningful reports. Ultimately, Lead Analyst Certification can help individuals build credibility as an expert in their field, as well as provide employers with confidence that they are hiring qualified individuals who are capable of providing valuable insight into their organization's data.

Pro Tip: When pursuing lead analyst certification, it is important to familiarize yourself with the various tools and technologies used in the field. This will help you better understand how data analysis works and give you an edge when taking the certification exam. Additionally, be sure to stay up to date on industry trends and best practices so that you can confidently answer any questions related to them during the exam.

Related: What does a Lead Analyst do?

Top 11 Lead Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Lead Analysts today.

1. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). The CBAP is designed to recognize experienced business analysts who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience in the field.

The CBAP requires applicants to have at least 7,500 hours of business analysis experience within the past 10 years. Applicants must also provide two references from a professional who can attest to their experience and skills.

In order to receive the CBAP, applicants must pass an exam administered by IIBA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the CBAP exam varies depending on location, but typically ranges from $325 USD to $450 USD. In addition, there is an application fee of $125 USD for new applicants or $100 USD for renewing applicants.

Once an applicant passes the exam, they are awarded the Certified Business Analysis Professional designation and will receive a certificate from IIBA.

2. Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)

Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS). The CAP certification is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate expertise in analytics, data science, and related disciplines.

The CAP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as analytics problem solving, data collection and management, modeling techniques, and communication of results. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on case studies and real-world scenarios. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in at least one programming language or software package related to analytics.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CAP certification. This includes studying for the exam, completing practice exams, and submitting a portfolio of work demonstrating proficiency in analytics.

To get certified as a CAP, applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts or work experience letters. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam online through INFORMS' website.

The cost of getting certified as a CAP depends on whether you are an INFORMS member or not. For non-members, the total cost is $1125 USD which includes registration fees ($350 USD), exam fee ($575 USD), and portfolio review fee ($200 USD). For members of INFORMS, the total cost is $875 USD which includes registration fees ($100 USD), exam fee ($575 USD) and portfolio review fee ($200 USD).

3. Certified Data Scientist (CDS)

Certified Data Scientist (CDS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of data science. The CDS certification is administered by the International Institute for Analytics (IIA), a global organization dedicated to advancing the practice of analytics.

The CDS program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as machine learning, data mining, predictive analytics, and big data. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also demonstrate experience in the field of data science by submitting a portfolio of their work and providing references from employers or colleagues.

The cost of the CDS exam is $495 USD. Additionally, applicants must pay an application fee of $50 USD and an annual maintenance fee of $100 USD after they have passed the exam.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of professional experience in data science or related fields and completing at least 24 hours of approved continuing education credits within the past three years. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the CDS certification program online. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate within four weeks.

4. Certified Big Data Scientist (CBDS)

Certified Big Data Scientist (CBDS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to work with large data sets and to analyze and interpret them. The CBDS certification is offered by the International Association of Big Data Professionals (IABDP).

The CBDS certification requires applicants to have a minimum of two years’ experience in big data analytics, as well as a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or a related field. Applicants must also pass an online exam that covers topics such as data mining, machine learning, predictive analytics, and visualization.

It typically takes about six months to complete the entire process from application to certification. To get certified, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and proof of education. After submitting the application, applicants will receive an email notification with instructions on how to access the online exam. Once they pass the exam, they will be awarded their CBDS certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for the entire process including application fees and exam fees.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, building, deploying, and managing data management and analytics solutions. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience in the field of data management and analytics, such as database administrators, business intelligence developers, data architects, or system engineers.

To obtain the MCSE: DM&A certification, an individual must pass two exams: Exam 70-765 “Provisioning SQL Databases” and Exam 70-767 “Implementing a Data Warehouse using SQL”. The exams are offered through Microsoft's official testing centers.

The cost of taking the two exams varies depending on where you take them. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD. In addition to the exam fees, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the MCSE: DM&A certification exams. This includes studying materials such as books and online courses, attending training sessions or workshops related to data management and analytics topics, taking practice tests to evaluate your progress, and finally scheduling your exams at an official testing center.

6. SAS Certified Advanced Analytics Professional (SAS CAAP)

SAS Certified Advanced Analytics Professional (SAS CAAP) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who have mastered the advanced analytics skills needed to create and maintain sophisticated data solutions. The SAS CAAP certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to use SAS software for predictive modeling, data mining, text analytics, optimization, simulation, and forecasting. It also validates their ability to apply these techniques to solve complex business problems.

The SAS CAAP exam consists of 50 questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To become certified, individuals must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam covers topics such as: predictive modeling techniques; data mining methods; text analytics concepts; optimization algorithms; simulation approaches; and forecasting methods.

To get the SAS CAAP certification, you must first register for the exam through the SAS website. After registering, you will be given access to practice exams and other resources that can help you prepare for the test. Once you are ready to take the exam, you can schedule it online or in-person at one of the authorized testing centers around the world.

The cost of taking the SAS CAAP exam is $250 USD.

7. IBM Certified Data Analyst – Professional Level (IBM CDAP-P)

IBM Certified Data Analyst – Professional Level (IBM CDAP-P) is a professional certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of data analysts. It is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to apply analytical techniques, interpret results, and communicate findings to stakeholders. The IBM CDAP-P certification requires candidates to demonstrate their mastery of the following topics: data analysis fundamentals, data modeling, querying and reporting, predictive analytics, and big data analytics.

The IBM CDAP-P certification exam takes approximately 3 hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. To prepare for the exam, candidates should have experience in working with databases and analytics tools such as IBM SPSS Modeler or Watson Analytics. In addition, they should have a good understanding of statistical methods such as regression analysis and clustering algorithms.

To get certified as an IBM CDAP-P professional, you must pass the IBM Certified Data Analyst – Professional Level (IBM CDAP-P) Exam. The exam fee is $200 USD plus applicable taxes. After passing the exam, you will receive an official certificate from IBM that recognizes your expertise in data analysis.

8. Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist (OBIFSCIS11g)

Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist (OBIFSCIS11g) is an Oracle certification program that validates a candidate’s ability to design, implement, and maintain Oracle Business Intelligence solutions. This certification is designed for individuals who have experience in the implementation of Oracle BI solutions and want to demonstrate their expertise in this area.

To get certified as an OBIFSCIS11g, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-591: Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Essentials and 1Z0-592: Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Implementation Specialist. The exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

The cost of the exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $125-$200 USD per exam. The total cost for both exams is usually around $250-$400 USD.

The time required to prepare for the exams depends on your knowledge level and experience with Oracle BI solutions. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months of study and practice before taking the exams.

9. Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate Certification

Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate Certification is a certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in using Tableau Desktop to create visualizations, dashboards, and stories. It is designed for individuals who have a basic understanding of data analysis and visualization principles. The certification exam is composed of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam through the Tableau website. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. The cost of the exam is $250 USD (or equivalent in local currency).

The exam covers topics such as connecting to data sources, creating views and dashboards, formatting worksheets, managing data sources, working with calculations, using parameters and filters, creating stories, and publishing workbooks. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take one or more of Tableau’s training courses or review their online resources.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your certificate via email within two weeks. Your certificate will be valid for two years from the date of issue.

10. Teradata 14 Certification Program

The Teradata 14 Certification Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the use of the Teradata Database. The program consists of two levels: Certified Associate (TCA) and Certified Professional (TCP).

The TCA certification focuses on the fundamentals of Teradata, including architecture, installation, configuration, security, maintenance and basic SQL. The TCP certification builds upon the TCA level by focusing on advanced topics such as query optimization, performance tuning and data warehousing.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the entire program, depending on your experience and availability for study. To get certified you must pass a series of written exams as well as a practical exam.

The cost for the program varies depending on which level you are pursuing and whether or not you are part of an organization that has a contract with Teradata. Generally speaking, it will cost around $2,500 - $3,000 for either level of certification.

11. Cloudera Certified Associate – Data Analyst (CCA-DA).

Cloudera Certified Associate – Data Analyst (CCA-DA) is a certification program that provides data professionals with the skills and knowledge to use Cloudera’s open-source platform for data analysis. The CCA-DA is designed to help individuals demonstrate their ability to perform core analyst tasks, such as querying, transforming, and visualizing data using SQL and familiar scripting languages.

The CCA-DA exam takes about two hours and consists of eight to twelve performance-based tasks that require the candidate to demonstrate their ability to analyze data using Cloudera’s open source platform. The exam is administered online and requires a passing score of 70% or higher in order to be certified.

In order to get the CCA-DA certification, candidates must first complete a course from an authorized training provider. These courses are typically offered in person or online, and can range from one day up to several weeks in duration depending on the provider. After completing the course, candidates can then register for the exam through Cloudera’s website.

The cost of the CCA-DA certification varies depending on the training provider chosen. Prices typically range from $500-$3000 USD depending on the length of the course and other factors.

Do You Really Need a Lead Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. For some people, a lead analyst certificate may be necessary for them to reach their career goals. For others, it may not be necessary at all.

In general, a lead analyst certificate is useful for those who wish to work in a professional capacity as an analyst or in a related field. A certificate can provide the skills and knowledge needed to analyze data and interpret it effectively. It can also demonstrate that someone has the ability to communicate complex information in a way that is understandable by clients or other stakeholders. Additionally, having such a certification can help someone stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

However, there are also situations where having a lead analyst certificate might not be necessary. For example, if someone already has significant experience working in an analytical role or has advanced degrees in related fields like economics or accounting, they may not need additional training or certification from an institution to secure work as an analyst. Additionally, if someone only plans to do analysis as part of their current job but does not plan on making it their primary focus going forward, then they may not need additional certifications either.

Ultimately, the decision whether or not to pursue a lead analyst certificate should depend on one’s individual circumstances and goals. If someone needs additional training and certification to reach their desired career objectives, then obtaining such a certificate could be beneficial for them in the long run. However, if someone already has adequate experience and qualifications for the type of work they want to do as an analyst then obtaining such a certification might not be necessary at all.

Related: Lead Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Lead Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Lead Analyst Certification?

A1. Lead Analyst Certifications are credentials that demonstrate an individual's expertise and experience in the field of data analytics. They are awarded by professional organizations and certifying bodies and typically require the successful completion of a course, exam or other assessment process.

Q2. How much does a Lead Analyst Certification cost?

A2. The cost of Lead Analyst Certifications varies depending on the organization offering the certification, but they generally range from $100 to $3,000 USD.

Q3. How long does it take to get a Lead Analyst Certification?

A3. The amount of time required to obtain a Lead Analyst Certification depends on the organization offering the certification, as well as the type of assessment process required for it (e.g., exam, coursework). Generally speaking, it usually takes several months to complete all requirements for a certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of having a Lead Analyst Certification?

A4: Having a Lead Analyst Certification can open up new career opportunities in data analytics and potentially increase your earning potential in this field. It can also help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions, as employers recognize certifications as evidence of specialized expertise and knowledge in data analytics.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Lead Analyst Certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying bodies require applicants to have some level of prior experience with data analytics before they can obtain their certification. This could include taking courses or completing projects related to data analysis and/or working professionally in this field for at least one year prior to application