Top 10 QA Lead Certifications

Certifications are important for a QA Lead in the job market because they demonstrate to employers a certain level of knowledge and expertise. Certified professionals have the skills and experience to develop, implement, and maintain quality assurance processes that ensure product quality. They can also help organizations stay ahead of changes in technology, regulations, and industry standards. Certification demonstrates that a QA Lead has the technical know-how needed to meet quality goals. It also serves as an indication of commitment to the field, which is especially important in competitive job markets.

The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for QA Leads and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are QA Lead Certifications?

QA Lead Certification is a certification program designed to help Quality Assurance (QA) professionals and software testers demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field of QA. It consists of a comprehensive course that covers topics such as software testing methodologies, test automation, test strategy development, quality assurance processes and best practices, risk management, and project management. The certification provides an independent assessment of the individual's knowledge and skills in the field of QA.

The certification can be beneficial to both employers and individuals in several ways. For employers, it provides an objective measure of an individual's proficiency in QA-related areas so they can make more informed hiring decisions. For individuals, it serves as proof that they have the necessary skills to work in the field of QA. Additionally, having this certification on their resume can show potential employers that they are committed to the profession and have taken steps to improve their qualifications. Finally, those who obtain this certification may also find themselves with better job prospects due to the increased demand for certified QA professionals in many industries today.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a QA Lead, consider taking an online certification course. This will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this role. Additionally, it can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the field.

Related: What does a QA Lead do?

Top 10 QA Lead Certifications

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

1. Certified Software Quality Assurance Lead (CSQAL)

Certified Software Quality Assurance Lead (CSQAL) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals with the knowledge and experience in software quality assurance. This certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). It is an advanced level certification that requires candidates to have at least two years of professional experience in software testing or quality assurance.

To get the CSQAL certification, you must first pass three exams: Foundation Level, Advanced Level Test Analyst, and Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst. The Foundation Level exam covers general concepts related to software testing and quality assurance. The Advanced Level Test Analyst exam focuses on test analysis and design techniques. Finally, the Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst exam covers technical test design techniques and tools.

It typically takes about six months for a candidate to successfully complete all three exams and earn their CSQAL certification. Candidates should plan to spend time studying for each exam, as well as taking practice tests before taking the actual exams.

The cost of the CSQAL certification varies depending on where you take the exams and how many times you need to retake them if necessary. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$800 USD for all three exams combined.

2. Certified Quality Assurance Lead (CQAL)

Certified Quality Assurance Lead (CQAL) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to ensure the highest quality assurance standards are met in software development and testing. CQAL is a comprehensive certification program that provides an in-depth understanding of quality assurance principles, processes, and techniques. The certification covers topics such as risk management, test automation, system architecture, requirements engineering, and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CQAL certification program. This includes completing the coursework, passing the exams, and submitting a final project. To get started with the CQAL certification process, you must first register for the course on the official website. After registering for the course, you will be required to complete all of the coursework material within six months from your registration date. Once you have completed all of the coursework material and passed all of the exams, you will then submit a final project which will be evaluated by an expert panel of industry professionals.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take your courses and what type of certification package you purchase. Generally speaking, most CQAL certifications cost between $2,000-$3,000 USD.

3. ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)

The ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) is an internationally recognized certification for software testers. It is designed to give professionals a basic understanding of software testing and quality assurance principles, as well as the practical skills needed to apply them in the workplace. The CTFL certification is aimed at entry-level testers, test analysts, test engineers, test consultants, test managers and user acceptance testers.

The CTFL exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. To get the certification, you must achieve a minimum score of 65%. The cost of the exam varies by country but generally ranges from $250-$300 USD.

In order to prepare for the exam, there are several resources available online such as study guides and practice tests. Additionally, there are many courses offered by training providers that can help you gain an in-depth understanding of the topics covered on the exam.

4. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification offered by various organizations to individuals who have achieved a certain level of competency in Six Sigma. It is designed to recognize an individual's ability to apply the principles and techniques of Six Sigma to improve business processes.

The certification typically requires that an individual complete a combination of classroom training, online learning, and/or on-the-job experience. The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the program chosen, but typically ranges from one week to several months.

To get certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers the fundamentals of Six Sigma methodology, including process improvement techniques such as DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control). The exam may be administered by a third party or by the organization offering the certification.

The cost of obtaining Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the program chosen and may include tuition fees, exam fees, and other associated costs. Generally speaking, programs range from $500-$2,000 USD.

5. Certified Professional in Software Testing (CPST)

Certified Professional in Software Testing (CPST) is an industry-recognized certification for software testers. It is a professional credential that verifies the knowledge, skills, and experience of software testing professionals. The CPST certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).

The CPST certification requires applicants to pass a written exam that covers topics such as software testing fundamentals, test design techniques, and test automation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in software testing or related fields to be eligible for the exam.

To get the CPST certification, applicants must first register with ISTQB and pay an examination fee. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPST certificate from ISTQB. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD.

6. Agile Scrum Master Certification

Agile Scrum Master Certification is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful Agile projects. The certification is offered by the Scrum Alliance, which is an international organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of Agile project management techniques.

The certification consists of two courses: Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) and Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM). The CSM course focuses on teaching participants the fundamentals of Agile project management, including how to work with stakeholders, plan sprints, manage team dynamics, and track progress. The A-CSM course builds upon the CSM course and provides more advanced topics such as developing user stories, managing product backlogs, leading retrospectives, and creating effective sprint reviews.

In order to become certified as an Agile Scrum Master, individuals must pass both courses. Each course typically takes around 15-20 hours to complete depending on individual learning speed. Upon successful completion of both courses, individuals will receive their official certification from the Scrum Alliance.

The cost for both courses varies depending on where you take them; however, most online providers offer packages that include both courses for around $500-$600 USD.

7. PMI-ACP Certification

PMI-ACP (Project Management Institute Agile Certified Practitioner) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience of agile principles, practices, and tools. The PMI-ACP certification is designed for project managers and other professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in Agile project management.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the exam, depending on your familiarity with agile principles and practices. To become certified, you must have 2,000 hours of general project experience within the last five years, 1,500 hours of agile project experience within the last three years, 21 contact hours of agile training from an approved provider, and pass an exam consisting of 120 multiple-choice questions.

The cost of the PMI-ACP exam varies based on your membership status with PMI. For non-members it costs $435 USD; for members it costs $375 USD; and for student members it costs $275 USD.

8. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage IT services. The ITIL Foundation Certification is the entry-level qualification in the ITIL service management framework. It covers the core concepts of service management, including service strategy, design, transition, operation, and continual improvement.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, you must score at least 65% or higher. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $200 USD.

To get certified as an ITIL Foundation professional, you must first pass the ITIL Foundation exam. You can take this exam either online or in person at an accredited testing center. Before taking the exam, it's important that you have a good understanding of the principles and processes outlined in the official ITIL guidance documents. Additionally, there are several online courses available that can help prepare you for your certification exam.

Once you have passed your ITIL Foundation exam, you will be eligible for a variety of other certifications within the ITIL framework such as Service Manager or Practitioner level certifications.

9. Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and skills in the areas of quality and organizational excellence. The certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CMQ/OE certification requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in quality or organizational excellence, with at least three years in a leadership role. Candidates must also pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of quality management principles and practices. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, human resource development, and project management.

The cost to become certified varies depending on ASQ membership status. For non-members, the fee is $749 USD; for members it is $549 USD. It typically takes around six months to prepare for the exam and complete the application process.

10. ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

The ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who are knowledgeable in quality engineering and related disciplines. The CQE certification is based on a body of knowledge that includes quality concepts, principles, and practices, as well as product and process design, development, and improvement.

It typically takes about two years to prepare for the CQE exam. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in quality engineering or related fields. This experience must include at least three years of direct involvement with quality engineering activities such as design reviews, process audits, or corrective action plans.

To get certified as an ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE), applicants must pass the CQE exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality systems management, product/process design and development, statistical methods, measurement systems analysis, and problem solving/root cause analysis.

The cost for taking the CQE exam varies depending on where you take it; however it typically costs around $400 USD.

Do You Really Need a QA Lead Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking for a career in software testing or quality assurance, then a QA Lead Certificate can be beneficial to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. This type of certification can help you stand out from other job applicants and may even improve your chances of getting the job. Additionally, having a QA Lead Certificate may give you the opportunity to take on more responsibility in the workplace, such as leading projects or team members.

On the other hand, if you already have extensive experience in software testing and quality assurance, then a QA Lead Certificate may not be necessary. The certificate itself is not going to guarantee that you will get a job; employers are more likely to look at your qualifications and experience when making hiring decisions. Therefore, if you are confident that your existing experience is enough to land the job without needing additional certification, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue this certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a QA Lead Certificate depends on your own unique situation. Consider carefully what kind of job opportunities you are interested in pursuing and how having this certification could help increase your chances of success.

Related: QA Lead Resume Examples

FAQs About QA Lead Certifications

Q1. What is a QA Lead Certification?

Answer: A QA Lead Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in software testing and quality assurance. It verifies an individual's dedication to upholding the highest standards of quality assurance, and provides employers with an assurance of their experience and skills.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting a QA Lead Certification?

Answer: Benefits include increased job opportunities, higher wages, more credibility in the industry, and recognition for your knowledge and experience in the field. It also serves as proof that you have a deep understanding of software testing principles and processes, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs.

Q3. How do I get a QA Lead Certification?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete accredited courses or exams related to software testing and quality assurance topics such as requirements analysis, test planning, automation techniques, defect management processes, etc. After successful completion of these courses or exams, you will receive your certification credential.

Q4. How long does it take to get a QA Lead Certification?

Answer: The time frame depends on the type of certification program you choose and how much time you dedicate to studying each topic covered by it. Generally speaking, most programs require at least 40 hours of study time before taking the final exam or completing coursework assignments.

Q5. Is there an expiration date for my QA Lead Certification?

Answer: Yes - most certifications have an expiration date after which they must be renewed or updated in order to remain valid. The exact duration varies depending on the issuing organization but usually ranges from one to three years after initial certification was granted.