Top 11 Programmer Certifications

Certifications are an important way for programmers to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a specific language or technology. They can help to prove that the programmer has mastered a certain set of skills, and is capable of utilizing them effectively. By having certifications, it can give potential employers more confidence in hiring a programmer as they know that they have the right qualifications for the job. In addition, certifications can also help to differentiate a programmer from others who may not have the same level of experience or knowledge. This can be especially beneficial when applying for higher-level positions where experience is more important than education.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most valuable certifications for Programmers and discuss how they can help advance a programmer's career.

What are Programmer Certifications?

Programmer certification is a process of verifying that a programmer has the knowledge and experience necessary to do their job. It helps ensure that the programmer is qualified to work in their given field and can help employers identify potential candidates for positions. It also provides employers with assurance that the programmer has demonstrated competence in their chosen programming language or platform. By certifying programmers, employers can be sure they are hiring someone who is knowledgeable about the technology and proficient in its use. Additionally, it encourages professional development by providing an incentive for programmers to stay up-to-date on new technologies and trends in the industry. Finally, certification can help reduce risk by ensuring that programmers have the necessary skills to complete tasks successfully.

Pro Tip: Before taking any programmer certification exam, make sure to do thorough research on the exam requirements, topics covered, and time limits. Also consider taking a practice test to help prepare you for the actual exam.

Related: What does a Programmer do?

Top 11 Programmer Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates an individual's expertise in developing and designing solutions using Microsoft technologies. It is designed for professionals who develop applications and services on the Microsoft platform, including Windows, Windows Phone, Office 365, SharePoint, Azure, Dynamics CRM, and Visual Studio.

To become an MCSD certified professional, you must pass three exams: two core exams and one elective exam. The core exams are focused on programming skills and the elective exam covers a specific technology or application area. The exams take about four hours each to complete.

The cost of the MCSD certification varies depending on the country you are taking the exam in. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 per exam. Additionally, there are fees associated with registering for the exam and purchasing study materials that may increase the overall cost of obtaining your certification.

In terms of time commitment, it typically takes between three to six months to prepare for all three required exams and obtain your MCSD certification. This includes studying for each exam individually as well as practicing with sample questions and projects to ensure you have a strong understanding of the material covered in each test.

2. Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP)

Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP) is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a programmer’s knowledge and ability to develop applications using the Java programming language. The certification is offered by Oracle, the world’s largest enterprise software provider.

To obtain the OCPJP certification, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-815 and 1Z0-816. The first exam covers core Java SE 8 topics such as object-oriented programming, fundamentals of the Java language, and working with data types. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as developing database applications with JDBC and creating GUI applications with Swing.

It typically takes around 3 months of preparation to get ready for the exams. You can prepare for the exams by taking online courses or attending instructor-led training classes. Additionally, there are several books available that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of each exam is $245 USD. Both exams must be taken in order to obtain the OCPJP certification.

3. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is designed to provide a foundation of competency in areas such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. The certification is vendor-neutral and covers a wide range of technologies and topics.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam depending on your experience level. To earn the certification, you must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). The exams are administered by Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ Certification depends on where you take the exam and which version you choose. The exam costs vary from $219 USD for the Standard Edition to $339 USD for the Performance Edition. There may also be additional fees for rescheduling or canceling your exam appointment.

In addition to passing the exams, there are no prerequisites required to become certified in CompTIA A+. However, it is recommended that you have at least nine months of hands-on experience with computer hardware and software before attempting either exam.

4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program that validates an individual’s skills in networking and related technologies. It is designed to provide a baseline level of knowledge and technical expertise for entry-level network engineers. The CCNA certification is the most popular Cisco certification and is often seen as the first step in pursuing a career in networking.

It usually takes around 4-6 months to complete the CCNA program, depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying. To obtain the CCNA certification, individuals must pass two exams: ICND1 and ICND2. Both exams cover topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, IP addressing, subnetting, troubleshooting, security concepts, and more.

The cost of obtaining the CCNA certification varies depending on where you take your exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $350 USD for both exams combined. Additionally, there are study materials available online or through Cisco Learning Partners that may be purchased to help prepare for the exam.

5. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s ability to design and deploy applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform. It demonstrates a professional’s expertise in designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform.

The exam typically takes around 80 minutes to complete, and covers topics such as: designing highly available, cost-efficient, fault-tolerant, and scalable distributed systems on AWS; selecting appropriate AWS services to design and deploy an application based on given requirements; identifying appropriate use of AWS architectural best practices; estimating AWS costs and identifying cost control mechanisms; and migrating complex multi-tier applications onto AWS.

To get the certification, you must pass the exam by scoring at least 720 out of 1000 points. You can take the exam either online or at an approved testing center. The exam fee varies by country but generally ranges from $150-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from Amazon Web Services which will be valid for three years from the date of completion.

6. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program created by Microsoft to provide individuals with foundational technology knowledge. MTA certifications validate basic understanding of core technology concepts and help bridge the gap between academic study and professional certification. MTA certifications are available for students, educators, IT professionals, or anyone interested in learning more about Microsoft technologies.

The MTA certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, Software Development Fundamentals, Database Fundamentals, and Web Development Fundamentals.

To get an MTA certification you must register for an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on which certification you are taking but typically ranges from $115-$150 USD. After registering for the exam you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the practice exams that can be used to prepare for the actual exam. Once you have completed the practice exams and feel ready to take the actual exam you can schedule your appointment at a Pearson VUE testing center near you.

Once you have passed your MTA certification exam you will receive a digital badge that can be shared on social media platforms such as LinkedIn or Facebook as well as an official Microsoft certificate that can be printed out or downloaded from your account dashboard.

7. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., the world’s leading provider of open source solutions. The RHCE program is designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to install, configure, manage and troubleshoot Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. This certification is highly sought after in the industry, as it demonstrates a strong understanding of Linux technologies and best practices.

The RHCE exam consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on lab exam. The online exam tests your knowledge of Linux concepts and commands while the lab exam tests your ability to configure Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. Both exams must be passed in order to obtain the RHCE certification.

It typically takes around 6-12 months of study and preparation to pass both exams. During this time, it is important to gain experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems in order to become familiar with the technology and its configuration options. It is also recommended that you take advantage of any training or resources offered by Red Hat or its partners in order to prepare for the exams.

The cost of obtaining an RHCE certification varies depending on where you take the exams and what type of support you choose during your preparation period. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD for both exams combined.

In addition to passing both exams, applicants are also required to sign up for an annual subscription service with Red Hat which provides access to their software updates and security patches at no additional cost.

8. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is an industry-recognized certification that validates a candidate’s knowledge and skills in information security. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of information security, including risk management, system hardening, incident response, cryptography, and network security.

The GSEC certification requires passing a single exam which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam must be completed within 4 hours and is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. The cost for the exam is $599 USD.

In order to prepare for the GSEC certification exam, GIAC offers several training courses and practice exams. The recommended course for GSEC certification is the SANS Security Essentials Bootcamp Style Course (SEC401). This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of the topics covered on the GSEC exam and includes hands-on labs to reinforce key concepts. The cost for this course is approximately $5,000 USD.

Additionally, GIAC offers study guides and practice tests to help candidates prepare for their GSEC certification exams. These resources can be purchased separately or as part of a bundle with the SEC401 course.

9. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is an internationally recognized professional certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP credential demonstrates that a project manager has the knowledge, experience, and skills to lead and direct projects.

To become certified as a PMP, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. To qualify for the exam, individuals must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma or equivalent) plus at least five years of project management experience with 7500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree plus at least three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing. The exam takes about four hours to complete. It is offered in English in more than 140 countries around the world.

The cost of taking the PMP exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members it costs $405 USD while for non-members it costs $555 USD. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your certification within two weeks after submitting all required documentation.

Overall, becoming a Project Management Professional is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge in this field as well as increase your earning potential in the job market.

10. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program provided by Oracle that validates a professional’s ability to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot an Oracle database. To become an OCP certified professional, you must pass the Oracle Database 12c Administration I and II exams. The exams are designed to test your knowledge of database administration tasks such as installation, configuration, patching, backup/recovery, security management, performance tuning, and more.

The time it takes to become an OCP certified professional varies depending on your experience level and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year or more to prepare for the exams and become certified.

To get started on the path towards becoming an OCP certified professional you will need to register with Oracle University and purchase their training materials. They offer several different courses that cover all of the topics necessary for passing both exams. After completing the coursework you will need to register for and pass both exams in order to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming an OCP certified professional depends on which course materials you choose and how many times you take each exam if needed. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD depending on your individual situation.

11. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of Adobe products. The certification is designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in the use of Adobe software.

To become an ACE, applicants must pass one or more exams on specific Adobe products. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To prepare for the exams, applicants can take practice tests, review study materials, and attend instructor-led training courses.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the product being tested and the country in which it is taken. Generally speaking, a single exam costs between $150 to $180 USD.

It typically takes two to three months to receive your ACE certification after passing all required exams. Once certified, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise with Adobe products and gain access to exclusive resources from Adobe such as discounts on software purchases and access to special events.

Do You Really Need a Programmer Certificate?

Programmer certificates can be an invaluable asset for those looking to break into the tech industry, but they are not always necessary. The decision to pursue a certificate should depend on individual goals and needs.

For those who want to work as a programmer in the tech industry, having a certificate can be very beneficial. Certificates demonstrate that you have acquired certain skills and knowledge in programming, which can make you more attractive to potential employers. A certificate can also demonstrate your dedication and commitment to learning about programming, which may give you an advantage over other candidates when applying for jobs.

For those who already have experience in programming and want to move up in their career, a programmer certificate may not be necessary. Employers often look at past experience and accomplishments when considering candidates for positions, so having a certificate may not necessarily give you an edge in the job market. In some cases, employers may even view having a programmer certificate as being too focused on credentials rather than actual experience or knowledge of the field.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a programmer certificate depends on their individual circumstances and goals. For people looking to break into the tech industry or take on more advanced roles within it, obtaining a certification could help prove their worth to potential employers. On the other hand, experienced programmers with extensive experience may find that their past accomplishments are enough to get them where they want without needing any additional certifications or credentials.

Related: Programmer Resume Examples

FAQs About Programmer Certifications

1. What types of programming certifications are available?

Answer: There are a variety of programming certifications available, such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).

2. How much does a programmer certification cost?

Answer: The cost of a programmer certification can vary widely depending on the type of certification and the provider offering it. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200-$2000 for most programming certifications.

3. What is the best way to prepare for a programmer certification exam?

Answer: The best way to prepare for a programmer certification exam is to thoroughly read through the materials provided by the provider, practice with sample questions, and review any online resources or tutorials that may be available. Additionally, attending lectures or classes related to the material can also be helpful in preparing for an exam.

4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a programming certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, there are no specific prerequisites for obtaining a programming certification; however, some providers may require that applicants have certain experience or qualifications before taking an exam. It’s important to check with your chosen provider to determine what their requirements may be.

5. Are programmer certifications accepted by employers?

Answer: Yes, many employers accept programmer certifications as evidence of an applicant’s knowledge and skills in software development and computer engineering fields. Having a recognized certificate can also help you stand out among other job seekers when applying for positions in these areas.