Top 11 Programming Certifications

Certifications are important for a programmer in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job. They also provide proof of proficiency in specific programming languages or technologies, which can be beneficial when applying for certain roles. Additionally, certifications help to distinguish one programmer from another, as employers are often looking for people with proven expertise in certain areas. Certifications can also help programmers to establish their credibility and gain recognition within the industry.

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

What are Programming Certifications?

Programming certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills and ability to work with certain programming languages. It is often used as evidence of proficiency in programming by employers when hiring new staff or assessing the qualifications of existing employees. Certification can also be useful for individuals looking to further their career prospects or demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the field.

Having a programming certification can help individuals stand out from other job applicants, especially when competing for more advanced positions. It also shows employers that an individual has dedicated time and effort to perfecting their skillset and is committed to being a lifelong learner. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for higher salaries and more responsibilities within organizations. Finally, having a certification can provide individuals with more confidence in their abilities as a programmer and give them access to exclusive resources from the certifying body such as continuing education courses or discounts on software tools.

Pro Tip: Do your research when selecting a programming certification program. Look for programs that have been developed and endorsed by industry-recognized organizations or institutions, as these are generally the most respected and beneficial certifications to have.

Related: What does a Programming do?

Top 11 Programming Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates a professional’s ability to develop, design, and deploy solutions using Microsoft technologies. This certification is intended for experienced software developers who specialize in developing applications using the Microsoft platform.

In order to become an MCSD certified professional, you must pass three required exams as well as one elective exam. The three required exams are: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3; Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications; and Developing Windows Azure and Web Services. The elective exam can be chosen from among the following: Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions; Designing and Implementing Big Data Analytics Solutions; or Developing Mobile Apps.

The cost of each exam varies depending on which country you are taking it in, but typically ranges from $150 to $200 per exam. It usually takes around 3-6 months of preparation time before taking the exams, although this varies depending on your experience level with the technology being tested.

To get started, you should visit the Microsoft Learning website where you can find all the information about the MCSD program including study materials, practice tests, and registration information for each exam.

2. Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP)

Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP) is an industry-recognized certification from Oracle that validates a programmer’s ability to develop, deploy, and maintain applications written in the Java programming language. This certification is designed for experienced programmers who have already obtained a basic understanding of the Java language. It requires knowledge of object-oriented concepts, core Java APIs, and more advanced topics such as multithreading and collections.

It typically takes between 6 to 8 months to prepare for the OCPJP exam. To get started, it is recommended that you have at least one year of experience working with Java before attempting the exam. You should also be familiar with the basics of programming and object-oriented design principles. Additionally, it is recommended that you take a course or study guide to help you prepare for the exam.

To obtain your OCPJP certification, you must pass both the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) and Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) exams. The OCA exam covers basic Java concepts such as language syntax, data types, flow control statements, and object-oriented programming principles. The OCP exam tests your knowledge on more advanced topics such as threading, collections, generics, I/O streams, JDBC API, networking fundamentals and security features.

The cost of taking the OCPJP exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $245 - $295 USD per exam.

3. Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification program offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to validate an individual's technical skills and expertise in designing, deploying, and managing applications and infrastructure on the AWS platform.

The exam takes approximately 130 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions. The passing score for the exam is 720 out of 1000 points.

To get AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification, you must first pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Exam. You can register for the exam at aws.amazon.com/certification/exam-registration/. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150 to $300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email confirming that you have been certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate. You will also receive a digital badge which you can use to display your certification status online or in print materials.

4. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification program in networking from Cisco. It is designed to validate an individual’s ability to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot networks of varying sizes.

To become CCNP certified, you must pass four exams: ROUTE (300-101), SWITCH (300-115), TSHOOT (300-135), and one elective exam. The exams are 90 minutes long and contain between 45 and 65 questions each. The cost of the exams varies depending on the country you are taking them in but typically ranges from $200 - $400 per exam.

It usually takes about 6 months to complete all four exams for the CCNP certification. This includes studying for the exams as well as taking them. Depending on your experience level, it could take longer or shorter than this time frame.

In addition to passing the four required exams, you must also have at least three years of experience working with Cisco products before you can become CCNP certified. You will also need to renew your certification every three years by taking a recertification exam or attending certain training courses offered by Cisco.

5. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, troubleshooting, and customer service.

It typically takes around 90 hours of study to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. This includes studying course materials and taking practice tests. The exam itself consists of two parts: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams must be passed in order to receive the certification.

To obtain CompTIA A+ certification, you must first register for the exams with CompTIA or an approved testing center. You will then need to pay for the exams which cost $226 USD each. Once you have registered and paid for your exams, you can schedule them at a time convenient for you.

Once you have passed both exams, your results will be sent to CompTIA who will then issue your certificate. You can also choose to purchase additional credentials such as a digital badge or wallet card from CompTIA if desired.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification program in the field of project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice, science, and profession of project management. The PMP certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in leading and directing projects and teams.

The PMP certification process typically takes 3-6 months to complete, depending on how quickly you can prepare for the exam. To get PMP certified, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, as well as pass an examination. The educational requirements include having either a bachelor’s degree or equivalent education with at least three years of project management experience within the past five years, or four years of project management experience within the past eight years.

To get PMP certified, you must first create an account with PMI and pay an application fee of $129 for members or $429 for non-members. After that, you will need to fill out an application form and submit it along with proof of your education and professional experience. Once your application is approved, you can then register for the exam and pay its associated fees ($405 for members or $555 for non-members).

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official PMP certification from PMI which is valid for three years. You will also need to earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) during each three year cycle in order to maintain your certification status.

7. Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect

Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect is a professional-level certification designed to validate an individual’s expertise in designing, developing, managing and securing Google Cloud Platform solutions. The certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to design, develop, manage and secure cloud solutions on the Google Cloud Platform.

It typically takes 3-6 months of study and preparation to obtain the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification. To get the certification, you must pass both the Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals exam and one of the four specialty exams: Designing and Developing Applications on GCP; Managing Applications on GCP; Data Engineering on GCP; or Security & Compliance on GCP.

The cost for each exam varies depending on your location. Each exam costs $200 USD in North America, €180 EUR in Europe, £150 GBP in the UK, ¥20,000 JPY in Japan, or $250 AUD in Australia/New Zealand. There may also be additional fees associated with taking the exams such as proctoring fees or travel expenses.

8. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Program

The Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Program is an industry-recognized certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in using Adobe products. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge necessary to create, manage, and deliver digital content with Adobe software.

To become an ACE, you must pass one or more exams that cover topics such as product features, workflows, and best practices for using Adobe products. The exams are offered in multiple languages and can be taken at authorized testing centers around the world.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the exam(s) and earn your ACE certification. To get started, you will need to select the product(s) you would like to become certified in and purchase the appropriate exam voucher from an authorized reseller. You can then register for the exam online or by phone.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the product(s) being tested, but generally ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam.

9. Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA-V)

Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA-V) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are responsible for deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Citrix virtualization solutions. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to install, configure, manage, and support virtualized environments using Citrix XenApp and XenDesktop technologies.

The CCA-V exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of XenApp/XenDesktop components, user profile management, application delivery methods, printer management, monitoring and troubleshooting techniques.

To get the CCA-V certification you must successfully complete the CCA-V exam which can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center. The cost for taking the exam is $200 USD.

In order to prepare for the CCA-V exam it is recommended that you take a Citrix authorized training course or use self-study materials such as books or online resources. Additionally, there are several practice exams available online which can help you gauge your readiness for the actual exam.

10. Apple Certified iOS Technician (ACiT)

Apple Certified iOS Technician (ACiT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of experienced iOS technicians. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing Apple products running the iOS operating system.

To become an ACiT, individuals must pass two exams: the Apple Service Fundamentals Exam (SFE) and the Apple Certified iOS Technician Exam (ACiT). The SFE covers general service topics such as safety, tools, customer service, and troubleshooting. The ACiT exam focuses on more specific topics related to iOS devices such as setup and configuration, networking, security, hardware repair, software troubleshooting, data recovery, and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for both exams. To get started you will need to register with Apple’s Training Program Provider (TPP), which provides access to course materials and practice exams. You can also find additional resources online such as study guides or tutorials from third-party providers.

The cost of becoming an ACiT varies depending on the TPP you choose. Generally speaking it costs around $400-$500 for both exams combined.

11. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

The Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is an international certification program for professionals who use and manage Linux-based systems. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of system administrators and engineers working with Linux systems. LPIC certifications are vendor-neutral, meaning they are not specific to any particular Linux distribution.

LPIC certifications are available in four levels: LPIC-1, LPIC-2, LPIC-3, and LPIC-4. Each level requires a different set of exams that must be passed in order to become certified. The exams test a wide range of topics related to Linux administration, such as system installation and configuration, network services, security, scripting, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes several months to prepare for each exam depending on your experience level. You can find study materials online or purchase books from vendors like Amazon or O'Reilly Media. There are also training courses available from vendors like Red Hat or SUSE if you prefer an instructor-led approach.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $100-$200 per exam. You will need to pay for each exam separately as well as any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam at a testing center.

In order to become certified at any level of LPIC certification you must pass all the required exams for that level. Once you have done so you will receive an official certificate from the Linux Professional Institute confirming your certification status.

Do You Really Need a Programming Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. For some, a programming certificate may provide them with a competitive advantage when seeking employment or advancing in their current job. For others, the value of a programming certificate may be minimal and not worth the time and money spent on obtaining it.

For those looking to start a career in programming, having a certification can demonstrate that they have taken the initiative to learn and have acquired the necessary skills for success in the field. A certificate can also show potential employers that an individual is committed to continuing their education and staying up-to-date on new technologies. In addition, certifications often come with access to industry resources such as networking events, job postings, and educational resources that can help individuals find jobs or advance their careers.

For experienced programmers who are already employed in the field, having a certification may not be as important since they already have experience and knowledge of programming languages and technologies. However, if an individual is interested in advancing within their company or transitioning into another role within programming, then having a certification may prove to be beneficial. Certifications can also open up opportunities for freelance work or consulting engagements where an individual is paid for their knowledge and expertise rather than their experience alone.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a programming certificate will depend on your own goals and objectives. If you feel like it would benefit you professionally then it might be worth pursuing one; however if you don’t think it will add much value then it might not be worth your time and effort.

Related: Programming Resume Examples

FAQs About Programming Certifications

Q1: What is a programming certification?

A1: A programming certification is a professional credential that certifies an individual’s knowledge and skills in a specific programming language, such as Java, C++, or Python. It demonstrates to employers that the individual has the necessary qualifications to work as a programmer.

Q2: Why should I get a programming certification?

A2: Getting certified can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs and can also give you an edge in terms of salary and job opportunities. It can also help you stay up to date on the latest technology trends and advancements in the field.

Q3: How do I get certified?

A3: Most certifications require passing an exam administered by an accredited organization or institution. You will usually need to study for the exam or take courses related to the certification in order to prepare for it.

Q4: Are there different levels of programming certifications?

A4: Yes, there are typically three levels of certifications available – beginner, intermediate, and advanced – depending on your experience and proficiency level with the language.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified?

A5: This depends on your experience level with the language and how much time you are able to dedicate towards studying for the exam. Generally speaking, most people can complete their certification within six months if they put in enough effort and dedication.