Top 11 Program Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for program administrators in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge about the field. Certifications provide employers with a way to verify that applicants have the necessary skills and qualifications for the role. They also show potential employers that the program administrator is committed to their profession, as earning certifications requires time, effort, and dedication. Furthermore, certifications can increase an individual’s salary and provide them with professional development opportunities by allowing them to stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.

This article provides an overview of the top certifications for Program Administrators and outlines how they can help to further a program administrator's career.

What are Program Administrator Certifications?

Program administrator certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's knowledge and expertise in managing programs, projects, or initiatives. It is designed to demonstrate the individual's commitment to advancing their program management skills and help them stand out from the competition in the job market.

Program administrators certified by a professional organization have proven their mastery of essential program management concepts and processes. This includes topics such as project planning, scheduling, risk management, budgeting, resource allocation, communication strategies, quality assurance practices, and stakeholder engagement. Having this certification can give employers confidence that the individual has the necessary skills to lead their programs effectively and efficiently.

By obtaining program administrator certification, individuals can also stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices for successful program management. The certification serves as a testament to their dedication to improving their own abilities and staying ahead of the curve when it comes to developing new ways of doing things. With this credential under their belt, they will be better equipped to manage complex programs with greater efficiency while delivering maximum value for their organization.

Pro Tip: When considering program administrator certification, make sure to research the specific requirements of the program you are interested in. Many certifications require additional coursework or professional experience to qualify for the certification, so it’s important to make sure you meet all of the necessary criteria before investing time and money into a program.

Related: What does a Program Administrator do?

Top 11 Program Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Program Administrators today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification program that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, deploying, and managing the physical and virtual infrastructure of Windows Server 2012. This certification focuses on the skills needed to manage networks and systems across an enterprise environment.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification. To get certified, you must pass three exams: two core exams and one elective exam. The core exams are 70-410: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012, 70-411: Administering Windows Server 2012, and 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services. The elective exam can be chosen from a list of options such as 70-413: Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure or 70-414: Implementing an Advanced Server Infrastructure.

The cost of the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification varies depending on which exams you take. Each exam costs $150 USD, so if you take all three required exams it will cost $450 USD total.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies, troubleshooting, configuring, and managing networks. It is designed for those who have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or equivalent knowledge.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions that must be answered within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting and tools.

To get CompTIA Network+, you will need to take the CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam. You can register for the exam online through Pearson VUE or through an authorized training provider.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies by country but typically ranges from $320-$350 USD.

3. Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s ability to configure, deploy, manage and troubleshoot Windows Server systems. The MCSA certification is intended for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of networking, security, virtualization, storage and system administration.

The MCSA certification requires passing three exams: one core exam and two elective exams. The core exam covers topics such as Active Directory, Windows Server installation and configuration, network services and security. The two elective exams cover topics such as Exchange Server, SQL Server or SharePoint Server.

It typically takes around six months to prepare for the MCSA certification. It is recommended that individuals have a minimum of one year of experience working with Windows Server before attempting the exams. Additionally, it is also recommended that individuals have some hands-on experience with the technologies covered by the exams in order to be successful on them.

The cost of taking the three exams varies depending on location but generally ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam.

4. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., a major provider of open source software and services. The RHCSA certification is designed to validate the skills of system administrators in managing and configuring Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification provides an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s ability to configure local storage using logical volume management and access network file systems.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the RHCSA exam. This includes reading through the official Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7 documentation, as well as taking practice exams and doing hands-on exercises with Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7.

To get certified, candidates must pass a single two-hour exam. The exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of systems, user management, security, networking, storage administration, system monitoring, troubleshooting and more. Candidates must have at least six months of experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux before attempting the exam.

The cost for the RHCSA exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, it costs $400 USD per attempt.

5. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in VMware technologies. It is the most popular and widely recognized certification for virtualization professionals.

The VCP certification requires that candidates pass two exams: a foundation exam (VCP-DCV, VCP-NV, or VCP-CMA) and an elective exam (any of the other exams offered by VMware). Candidates must also have six months of experience with VMware products before they can take the foundation exam.

The time it takes to get certified depends on how much experience you have with VMware products and how quickly you can study for the exams. Generally, it takes around three months to complete the requirements.

To get certified, candidates must register for an official training course from an authorized training provider. The cost of these courses varies depending on the provider, but typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 USD. After completing the course, candidates must pass both exams before they can be certified as a VCP.

In addition to the cost of training courses and exams, there is also an annual recertification fee of $100 USD that must be paid each year to maintain your certification status.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2016

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2016 is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in deploying and managing Windows Server 2016. This certification is ideal for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to work with Windows Server 2016, including setting up and configuring servers, managing storage, implementing network infrastructure, and administering Active Directory.

It typically takes around three months of preparation time before you are ready to take the exam. You will need to have hands-on experience with Windows Server 2016 and be familiar with its features and capabilities. Additionally, you should also have a good understanding of networking concepts such as DNS, DHCP, IP addressing, and routing protocols.

To get the MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification, you must pass two exams: 70-740 Installation Storage & Compute with Windows Server 2016 and 70-741 Networking with Windows Server 2016. Both exams cost $165 each. After passing both exams, you will receive your MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification.

7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is the second level of certification in the Cisco Career Certification Program.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the CCNA program depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying. The program consists of two exams: ICND1 (100-105) and ICND2 (200-105). To receive your CCNA certification, you must pass both exams.

In order to get your CCNA certification, you must first register for the exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. You can then purchase study materials from Cisco Press or other vendors such as books, online courses, practice tests, etc. Once you have studied and feel confident that you are ready for the exam, you can schedule it at a testing center near you.

The cost of the CCNA certification varies depending on which exam package you choose. The standard package costs $300 USD for each exam ($600 total). There are also discounted packages available if you purchase both exams at once which can range from $450-$550 USD depending on where you purchase them from.

8. Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in administering Oracle Database 11g. This certification is designed for database administrators and system administrators who are responsible for managing and maintaining an Oracle Database 11g environment.

The OCP certification requires passing two exams: the Oracle Database 11g: Administration I exam and the Oracle Database 11g: Administration II exam. The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, backup/recovery, security, performance tuning, and troubleshooting.

In order to become an OCP certified professional, you must first pass both exams within 18 months of each other. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE or Prometric test center around the world.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location and currency exchange rates but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD per exam.

9. Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V)

Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V) is a certification program designed to prove an individual’s knowledge and experience in virtualizing applications and desktops using Citrix technologies. The certification is offered by Citrix Systems, Inc., a global leader in application delivery, cloud computing, and virtualization solutions.

The CCP-V certification requires the successful completion of two exams: 1Y0-311 Citrix XenApp 6.5 Advanced Administration and 1Y0-312 Citrix XenDesktop 5 Advanced Administration. The exams are typically available through third-party testing centers such as Pearson VUE or Prometric.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the CCP-V certification exams depending on an individual’s existing knowledge and experience with Citrix technologies. Candidates should also have at least six months of hands-on experience with XenApp 6.5 and XenDesktop 5 prior to taking the exams.

The cost of the CCP-V certification exams varies depending on the testing center but typically ranges from $200-$250 per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with scheduling an exam appointment or rebooking an exam if necessary.

10. Linux Professional Institute Certification Level 1 (LPIC-1)

Linux Professional Institute Certification Level 1 (LPIC-1) is an internationally recognized certification program for Linux system administrators. It is the most popular and widely accepted Linux certification program in the world. LPIC-1 certifies that a candidate has achieved a fundamental level of knowledge and skills in managing Linux systems.

The LPIC-1 exam consists of two parts: Exam 101 and Exam 102. Each exam lasts 90 minutes and contains 60 multiple choice questions. The passing score for each exam is 500 out of 800 points. Candidates must pass both exams to become certified at the LPIC-1 level.

The LPIC-1 certification does not have any prerequisites, so anyone can take the exams regardless of prior experience or education level. However, it is recommended that candidates have some basic knowledge of Linux system administration before attempting the exams.

It usually takes about 4–6 months to prepare for the LPIC-1 exams, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying each week. Candidates should also be aware that they may need to retake one or both exams if they do not pass on their first attempt.

To get LPIC-1 certified, you will need to register with LPI and pay a fee for each exam you take ($200 USD per exam). You will then need to schedule your exams with an authorized testing center near you or online through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

In total, it costs $400 USD for both exams, but this cost may vary depending on where you take your tests and any applicable taxes or fees associated with them.

11. Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to deploy, manage, and operate highly available, fault-tolerant systems on AWS. This certification is designed for individuals who have experience in system operations on AWS.

The exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions. The exam covers topics such as deployment, monitoring, security, troubleshooting, automation, networking, storage, and cost optimization.

To get the Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate certification you must pass the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exam. You can prepare for the exam by taking an official training course or self-studying using the official AWS documentation.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your geographical location but generally ranges from $150 to $300 USD.

Do You Really Need a Program Administrator Certificate?

Whether or not you need a program administrator certificate depends on the type of job you are looking for and your own personal goals. A program administrator certificate can be beneficial if you want to become an expert in a certain area of management, such as project management, process improvement, or business analysis. It can also be helpful if you are looking to move up in your current organization or apply for a position in another organization that requires more specific knowledge and skills.

If you are looking to become a program administrator, it is important to consider what type of job you want and how much experience you have. Some positions may require certification while others may allow candidates with a bachelor’s degree and a few years of experience in the field to apply. The certification will give you an edge over other applicants who do not have it and can help demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

A program administrator certificate can also provide recognition from employers as well as potential new clients. Having this certification can show that you have taken the time to learn about the field and understand its complexities, making it easier for potential employers to trust that you have the necessary qualifications for the job.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a program administrator certificate depends on the type of job you are applying for and your career goals. If getting certified is something that appeals to you, then it is worth considering how it could benefit your career path.

Related: Program Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Program Administrator Certifications

1. What is a Program Administrator Certification?

Answer: Program Administrator Certifications are credentials that demonstrate an individual's knowledge and proficiency in administering certain programs, such as customer service, business management, or safety protocols.

2. How do I become certified as a Program Administrator?

Answer: To become certified as a Program Administrator, you will typically need to pass an exam and/or complete a course of study that covers the necessary skills and knowledge required for the program.

3. What is the cost of obtaining a Program Administrator Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a Program Administrator Certification can vary depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and the institution offering it. In general, however, most certifications will require some sort of fee or tuition payment.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Program Administrator?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Program Administrator varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and the institution offering it. Generally speaking, however, most certifications will require some combination of coursework and exams which could range from several weeks to several months to complete.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Program Administrator?

Answer: Yes, many institutions offering program administrator certifications may have certain prerequisites that must be met before enrolling in their courses or taking their exams. These prerequisites may include having prior experience in the field or completing certain prerequisite courses related to the program being administered.