Top 10 QA Consultant Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a QA consultant’s resume and can be a great way to prove to employers that they have the skills and knowledge necessary for the job. By obtaining certifications, consultants can demonstrate their expertise in various areas related to quality assurance such as software testing, defect management, requirements analysis, process improvement, and automation. Certifications also provide tangible evidence of a consultant’s commitment to staying up-to-date on best practices and emerging trends in the field. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire consultants who have certifications because it indicates that they have invested time and effort into their professional development. Ultimately, certifications can give QA consultants an edge in the job market by helping them stand out from other candidates and demonstrating their commitment to excellence.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for QA Consultants and explain how they can help to advance their career in quality assurance.

What are QA Consultant Certifications?

QA Consultant certification is a credential offered by organizations such as the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), which recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in software testing. This credential provides validation that the individual has obtained a certain level of proficiency in quality assurance, which can help employers and clients identify qualified professionals.

Having this certification indicates to potential employers that an individual has demonstrated their knowledge in software testing, making them more attractive to potential employers. It gives the individual recognition for their skills and experience, as well as providing them with an advantage over other applicants who may not have received such certification. Additionally, having a QA Consultant certification shows that an individual is dedicated to staying current with industry trends and best practices in software testing.

By obtaining a QA Consultant certification, individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to quality assurance and gain the trust of their employer or client. This can be invaluable when it comes to gaining new opportunities or even negotiating higher salaries. Furthermore, having a QA Consultant certification can open up opportunities for career advancement within the software testing field, as well as allowing individuals to work on more complex projects that require higher levels of expertise.

Pro Tip: When selecting a QA Consultant Certification program, make sure to research the program thoroughly and ensure that it meets your specific needs. Look for programs that provide comprehensive instruction in the fundamentals of quality assurance and include hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and techniques. Also, look for certifications that are recognized by leading organizations in the software testing space.

Related: What does a QA Consultant do?

Top 10 QA Consultant Certifications

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

1. Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA)

Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CSQA certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and proficiency in software quality assurance.

The CSQA certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as software testing, quality management, project management, process improvement, and risk management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours.

To be eligible to take the CSQA exam, applicants must have a minimum of five years of experience in software quality assurance or related fields. In addition, applicants must have at least three years of experience working with software development processes and tools.

The cost of taking the CSQA exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, the cost is $449 USD for members of ASQ and $549 USD for non-members.

2. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and skills in the areas of quality engineering, control, assurance, and management. It is a globally recognized credential that can help individuals advance their careers in quality engineering.

To become certified as a CQE, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam administered by ASQ. To be eligible, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields. Of these eight years, three must have been spent in a full-time quality engineering position.

The CQE exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistical methods, process analysis and improvement techniques, design of experiments, quality control methods, and total quality management principles. The exam takes four hours to complete and costs $399 USD for ASQ members ($499 USD for nonmembers).

Once applicants have passed the exam they are officially certified as CQEs. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking another exam or completing continuing education credits.

3. Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)

Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) is an internationally recognized certification for software testers. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of software testing, and it is based on the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) syllabus.

The CTFL certification consists of a two-hour multiple-choice exam that covers topics such as test planning, test design, test implementation, and test execution. The exam also includes questions about risk management, quality assurance, and defect management.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the CTFL exam. Preparation involves studying the ISTQB syllabus, taking practice tests online or in books, and attending training classes or workshops if available.

To get the CTFL certification, you must pass the two-hour multiple-choice exam with a score of at least 65%. After passing the exam, you will receive your certificate from ISTQB.

The cost of taking the CTFL exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$300 USD to take the exam.

4. ISTQB Foundation Level Certification

ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is an entry-level certification in software testing. It is designed to provide a basic understanding of the principles and processes of software testing, as well as the tools and techniques used in the industry. The certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), which is a non-profit organization that provides global standards for software testing qualifications.

The ISTQB Foundation Level Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, risk analysis, and quality assurance. The practical exam focuses on hands-on application of the concepts learned in the written exam. The duration of the certification program depends on how quickly you can complete both parts of the examination process.

To get certified at the ISTQB Foundation Level, you must first register with an accredited training provider or take an online course from an accredited provider. Once you have completed your training, you can then take the written and practical exams at an authorized examination center. You will need to pay for both exams separately; however, most providers offer discounts if you purchase both exams together. The cost for taking both exams typically ranges from $200-$400 USD depending on your location and provider.

5. Six Sigma Green Belt

Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program that helps individuals become more effective in their roles as problem solvers and process improvers. It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to effectively lead Six Sigma projects.

How long does it take to get it?

The length of time it takes to get a Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider. Generally, it takes between two and four weeks of study or training in order to complete the requirements for certification.

How to get it?

In order to become certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must complete an approved course or training program from an accredited provider. You will also need to pass a written exam which tests your knowledge and understanding of the principles of Six Sigma.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider and type of course or training program you choose. Generally, courses range from $500 - $2,000 USD.

6. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a professional certification offered by the Scrum Alliance to individuals who have completed a course and passed an exam demonstrating their understanding of the Scrum framework. The CSM credential is designed to help professionals become more effective in leading and managing projects using Scrum principles.

It typically takes two days to complete the CSM course, which covers topics such as the history of Scrum, roles and responsibilities, product backlogs, sprint planning meetings, daily standups, retrospectives, and more. After completing the course, participants must pass an online assessment test in order to receive their CSM certification.

The cost of the CSM certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. There are also discounts available for groups or those who have already completed other certifications such as Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM).

In addition to attending a course and passing an exam, there are also prerequisites for obtaining a CSM credential. These include having at least one year of experience working on a software development team or project using agile methods such as Scrum. Additionally, applicants must agree to abide by the code of conduct set forth by the Scrum Alliance.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification program developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of project managers. The PMP credential is globally recognized and highly sought after in the business world.

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 be eligible for the exam, you must have either:

• A four-year degree plus three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading projects; or
• A secondary diploma plus five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading projects.

The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that cover five domains: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring/controlling, and closing. It takes four hours to complete the exam.

The cost of taking the PMP certification exam varies depending on your membership status with PMI. For non-members it costs $555 USD; for members it costs $405 USD. Additionally there are other fees associated with becoming certified such as application fees ($150 USD for members/$400 USD for non-members), membership dues ($129 USD annually), study materials ($200-$400 USD), and training courses (varies).

8. 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 certification is designed to recognize experienced business analysts who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the field. It is an internationally recognized standard for those in the business analysis profession.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of 7500 hours of documented work experience in the field of business analysis over the past 10 years, as well as 35 hours of professional development activities related to business analysis within the past 4 years. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the six core knowledge areas associated with business analysis: requirements management and communication, enterprise analysis, requirements analysis and design definition, solution evaluation, underpinning competencies, and strategic analysis.

It typically takes between 6-18 months to prepare for the CBAP exam depending on prior experience and dedication to studying. Candidates should plan on spending at least 30-50 hours studying for the exam in order to be successful.

The cost of taking the CBAP exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $325-$400 USD. There are also additional fees associated with applying for and maintaining your certification such as annual membership fees which range from $70-$150 USD per year.

9. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve IT service management. It is designed for professionals who are looking to gain a better understanding of the ITIL framework and its core concepts.

The ITIL Foundation certification typically takes two days to complete and consists of a combination of lectures, group activities, and exams. The exam is based on multiple choice questions and requires a minimum score of 65% in order to pass.

In order to get certified, you must first register with an accredited training provider. The cost of the training will vary depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $500-$2000 USD. After completing the course, you will then need to take the exam which typically costs around $250 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your ITIL Foundation Certificate which is valid for three years. After this time period, you will need to renew your certification by taking an advanced level course or by taking an online refresher course.

10. Certified Usability Analyst (CUA)

A Certified Usability Analyst (CUA) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the area of usability and user experience design. It is awarded by Human Factors International (HFI), an organization dedicated to improving the usability of products, services, and systems. The CUA certification program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in areas such as user research, user interface design, usability testing, and accessibility.

To become a Certified Usability Analyst, applicants must pass an exam administered by HFI. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as user research methods, usability principles, and accessibility guidelines. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

The cost of the certification varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $595 for members and $795 for non-members. Other countries may have different pricing structures; please contact HFI directly for more information.

Once you have passed the exam and paid the fee, you will receive your official CUA certificate from HFI within four weeks. You will also be listed in HFI's online directory of certified professionals so that potential employers can easily find you when searching for qualified candidates.

Do You Really Need a QA Consultant Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, such as your current level of experience and education in the field of Quality Assurance (QA). If you have a degree in engineering or computer science and already possess a good understanding of QA principles, then you may not need to obtain a QA Consultant Certificate. On the other hand, if you are new to the field or lack formal education in engineering or computer science, then obtaining a QA Consultant Certificate could be beneficial.

The primary benefit of having a QA Consultant Certificate is that it can help demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the area of quality assurance. By obtaining certification, employers can be more confident that you understand the principles and practices related to quality assurance and can be trusted to carry out tasks related to this field. Furthermore, having a certificate indicates that you are serious about your career and willing to invest time into developing your skills in this area.

In addition to helping you stand out from other applicants when searching for jobs, having a QA Consultant Certificate can also give you an edge when it comes to salary negotiations. Employers often view those with certifications as being more knowledgeable and experienced than their counterparts without certification, which can result in higher salaries or better job opportunities. It is important to note however that having a certificate does not guarantee success; it simply shows that you have invested effort into improving your qualifications for the job.

Overall, whether or not you need a QA Consultant Certificate will depend on your current level of experience and education in the field of Quality Assurance. If you are new to the field or lack formal education in engineering or computer science, then obtaining certification could be beneficial as it will demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to advance within the profession. Additionally, having certification may also help increase your chances of receiving higher pay offers from employers due to their perception that certified professionals are more qualified than their non-certified counterparts.

Related: QA Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About QA Consultant Certifications

1. What are the different types of QA Consultant Certifications?

Answer: The most common QA Consultant Certifications are Certified Software Tester (CSTE), Quality Assurance Institute (QAI), American Society for Quality (ASQ), and ISTQB Foundation Level.

2. How do I become a certified QA Consultant?

Answer: To become a certified QA Consultant, you must complete the relevant certification program through an accredited institution and pass the associated exam.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified QA Consultant?

Answer: Becoming a certified QA Consultant can help you stay up to date on industry best practices, demonstrate your expertise in quality assurance, and give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs.

4. What is the cost of becoming a certified QA Consultant?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified QA Consultant varies depending on which certification program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, however, costs can range from $200 to $1000 or more depending on the level and type of certification.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified QA Consultant?

Answer: Generally speaking, most certification programs require some prior experience with software testing or quality assurance processes before they will allow you to take their exams. Additionally, some certifications may have additional requirements such as specific educational qualifications or work experience in related fields.