Top 11 Report Developer Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a report developer’s job market. They provide validation of the report developer’s skills and knowledge, which can be used to demonstrate their competence and worth to potential employers. Certification can also be used to differentiate between applicants, as it shows that the report developer has met certain standards of excellence in their field. Additionally, certifications may help open up new opportunities for the report developer since they may meet certain requirements that would otherwise exclude them from certain positions. Finally, certifications can provide a sense of accomplishment and recognition for the report developer, and can serve as a reminder of their dedication to developing quality reports.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Report Developers and how they can help to further a report developer's career.

What are Report Developer Certifications?

Report Developer Certification is a professional certification that is designed to demonstrate an individual's expertise in designing and developing reports for business intelligence (BI) systems. This type of certification typically requires the successful completion of a course or exam, or both, in order to be certified.

Having Report Developer Certification can help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of BI systems and report development. It also provides evidence that they have the skills necessary to design reports that are optimized for data analysis, as well as accurately interpret and visualize data. As such, it can help individuals stand out among other applicants when applying for jobs related to report development, as well as increase their credibility with employers who may be looking for someone with specialized knowledge in this area.

In addition to its usefulness in job applications, Report Developer Certification can also provide holders with the opportunity to access exclusive resources and networking opportunities related to report development. This could include access to training materials, updates on new software releases, industry insights from experts, and more. Ultimately, obtaining Report Developer Certification can provide individuals with the tools they need to develop their careers in report development.

Pro Tip: To become a certified report developer, it is essential to have comprehensive knowledge of SQL and database administration. Additionally, having a solid understanding of the reporting tools used in your organization (such as Tableau or PowerBI) will be beneficial when taking the certification exam.

Related: What does a Report Developer do?

Top 11 Report Developer Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in developing and deploying modern mobile and/or web applications using Microsoft Visual Studio and the Microsoft Azure platform. It also validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain applications that are built on the Microsoft platform.

The MCSD: App Builder certification requires passing two exams: Exam 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3; and Exam 70-486: Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications. The exams are designed to measure an individual’s knowledge of HTML5, JavaScript, CSS3, ASP.NET MVC 4/5, Windows Azure SDK for .NET, Entity Framework 6/7, LINQ, AJAX/jQuery Mobile, WCF Services/Web API 2.0/RESTful services, Windows Store Apps development with XAML & C# or VB.NET & XAML.

It typically takes around 3 months to prepare for the two exams required for the MCSD: App Builder certification depending on an individual's experience level and how much time they can dedicate to studying each week.

The cost of taking the two exams depends on which country you are located in as prices vary from region to region. Generally speaking it will cost around $400-$500 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam in your region.

2. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer is a certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate expertise in the Java programming language. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in developing applications using Java Standard Edition (SE) 8.

To get this certification, you need to pass the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer I exam (1Z0-815). This exam tests your knowledge of object-oriented concepts, language fundamentals, and core libraries. It takes approximately 150 minutes to complete the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally, it costs around $245 USD for each attempt.

In order to prepare for the exam, there are several online courses available as well as study materials such as books and practice exams that can be purchased from Oracle or other vendors. Additionally, you may want to consider attending a training course or workshop that covers the topics covered on the exam.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): SQL Server 2012/2014

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): SQL Server 2012/2014 is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates the skills and knowledge of an individual in using, managing, and maintaining the Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 relational database management system. The certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary technical skills to work with the Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 platform.

It typically takes around three months to complete the MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification process. The process involves taking two exams: Exam 70-461 – Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 and Exam 70-462 – Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases. Both exams must be passed in order to earn the MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification.

In order to get the MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification, individuals must first register for and pass both of the required exams. The exams can be taken at any authorized Pearson VUE testing center or online through Pearson VUE’s website. Once both exams have been successfully completed, individuals will receive their MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 certification from Microsoft.

The cost of taking the two required exams varies depending on location and other factors, but typically ranges between $150-$200 USD per exam.

4. IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2 10.5 Fundamentals

IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2 10.5 Fundamentals is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s expertise in the IBM DB2 10.5 database management system. This certification validates an individual’s ability to install, configure, and manage databases using the DB2 10.5 product family.

The certification exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Candidates must also pass a hands-on lab exercise prior to taking the exam. The lab exercise focuses on installation, configuration, and management of DB2 10.5 databases.

To obtain this certification, candidates must first register for the IBM Certification Program (ICP). After registering for ICP, candidates can then purchase the necessary study materials from IBM Education Delivery or other authorized providers and begin preparing for the exam.

The cost of this certification varies depending on where you purchase it from; however, it typically costs around $200 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

5. Oracle Certified Professional, PL/SQL Developer

Oracle Certified Professional, PL/SQL Developer is a certification program offered by Oracle Corporation. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals who develop applications using Oracle’s PL/SQL programming language. The certification covers topics such as database design, data manipulation, stored procedures and functions, triggers, packages and collections.

It usually takes around six months to prepare for the exam. To get certified, you must pass an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150 to $300 USD.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have a good understanding of Oracle Database concepts and PL/SQL language syntax. You should also be familiar with SQL commands and have experience in developing applications using PL/SQL. Additionally, it is beneficial to take an official training course or practice exams offered by Oracle University or other third-party providers.

6. Zend Certified PHP Engineer

Zend Certified PHP Engineer is a certification program that is designed to test and validate the knowledge and skills of experienced PHP developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency in developing web applications using the Zend Framework. The certification exam covers topics such as object-oriented programming, security, performance optimization, caching, and other aspects of the Zend Framework.

The certification exam takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $150 to $250 USD.

In order to prepare for the exam, there are a variety of resources available online including books, tutorials, practice exams and online courses. Additionally, Zend offers an official training course which provides comprehensive coverage of all topics covered in the exam. The cost for this course is usually around $1,000 USD.

Overall, obtaining a Zend Certified PHP Engineer certification can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise in developing web applications using the Zend Framework and can help you stand out from other developers when applying for jobs or contracts.

7. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the fundamental technology skills needed to begin a career in technology. The MTA Database Fundamentals certification validates an individual’s knowledge of core database concepts including relational databases, data modeling, normalization, Structured Query Language (SQL), and database design.

The MTA Database Fundamentals exam typically takes between 90 minutes and two hours to complete. The exam consists of 40-60 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as relational databases, data modeling, normalization, Structured Query Language (SQL), and database design.

To get the MTA Database Fundamentals certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 1000. You can register for the exam through Microsoft’s website or through an authorized testing center.

The cost of the MTA Database Fundamentals exam varies depending on your location and whether you are taking it online or at an authorized testing center. Generally speaking, the cost is around $100 USD.

8. Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is an Oracle certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in the administration, configuration and management of Oracle Database 11g. This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the features and capabilities of Oracle Database 11g, as well as best practices for its implementation.

To get certified as an Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-052 and 1Z0-053. The first exam covers topics such as installation, upgrade, patching, security, backup & recovery, database performance tuning and more. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as data guard administration, RAC administration, ASM administration and more.

The duration for both exams is about 2 hours each. The cost for each exam varies depending on your location but is typically around $200 USD per exam.

In order to prepare for these exams you can take courses offered by Oracle University or purchase self-study materials from various vendors. You can also find practice exams online to help you prepare for the real thing.

9. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Software Development Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Software Development Fundamentals is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the fundamentals of software development. It is designed for individuals who are just beginning their career in software development or those who want to validate their existing knowledge. The certification covers topics such as core programming, object-oriented programming, web applications, databases and security.

The MTA Software Development Fundamentals exam takes approximately 60 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple choice questions. The exam must be taken at a Pearson VUE testing center and can be scheduled online or by phone. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $127 - $147 USD.

To prepare for the exam, Microsoft provides a variety of study materials such as practice tests, sample questions, instructor-led courses and self-study courses. Additionally, there are many third-party resources available to help you prepare for the exam such as books, videos and online tutorials.

10. Cloudera Certified Developer for Apache Hadoop

Cloudera Certified Developer for Apache Hadoop (CCDH) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s expertise in developing software applications on the Apache Hadoop platform. It demonstrates a professional’s ability to design, develop, and deploy effective solutions using Apache Hadoop.

The CCDH certification requires the successful completion of a two-hour online exam consisting of 50 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as MapReduce, HDFS, Hive, Pig, Impala, Sqoop, Flume, Oozie and other related technologies.

To get certified you must first register with Cloudera University and pay the associated fee. Once registered you will receive instructions on how to access the online exam. After successfully passing the exam you will be awarded your Cloudera Certified Developer for Apache Hadoop certification.

The cost of the CCDH certification is $295 USD per person. The cost includes access to practice exams and other study materials that can help prepare for the actual exam.

11. SAS Certified Base Programmer for SAS 9

SAS Certified Base Programmer for SAS 9 is a certification program offered by SAS Institute, Inc. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of individuals who have experience with the SAS programming language. The certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of SAS programming, including data manipulation, reporting, and statistical analysis.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as data manipulation, report generation, and statistical procedures. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

To become certified, candidates must first register for the exam on the SAS website and pay an exam fee of $180 USD. Candidates must also possess at least six months of experience working with SAS software before taking the exam. Once registered, candidates will receive an email containing instructions on how to schedule their exam with Pearson VUE.

Once a candidate has successfully passed the exam they will receive an official certificate from SAS Institute acknowledging their accomplishment as a certified base programmer for SAS 9.

Do You Really Need a Report Developer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and career aspirations. For some people, a report developer certificate may be necessary in order to pursue a particular job or career path. For other people, it may simply be an additional way to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field.

For those who are interested in pursuing a career as a report developer, obtaining a certificate is highly recommended. This is because it provides employers with proof that you have the skills and knowledge needed for the job. A certificate also demonstrates your commitment to the profession and shows that you are willing to go above and beyond what is expected of you. Additionally, having a certificate can help you stand out from other potential candidates when applying for jobs.

On the other hand, if you are not interested in pursuing a career as a report developer but would still like to demonstrate your proficiency in the field, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. Instead, it may be more beneficial to pursue certifications or other courses that focus on specific aspects of report development such as data analysis or visualization techniques. These certifications can provide employers with proof of your expertise in certain areas of report development which can help set you apart from other job applicants.

In conclusion, whether or not you need to obtain a report developer certificate will depend on your individual goals and career aspirations. If you are looking for a career as a report developer then obtaining certification is highly recommended as it provides employers with proof that you have the necessary skills and knowledge for the job. However, if you are simply looking to demonstrate your proficiency in the field then pursuing certifications or courses related to specific aspects of report development may be more beneficial than obtaining an overall certificate in this area.

Related: Report Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Report Developer Certifications

Q1: What is a Report Developer Certification?

A1: A report developer certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in designing, developing and managing reports. It usually requires passing an exam in order to demonstrate knowledge and skills in the area.

Q2: What types of certifications are available?

A2: There are various types of report developer certifications available including Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) Business Intelligence, Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist, IBM Cognos Analytics Professional Accreditation, SAP BusinessObjects 4.0 Certification and Tableau Qualified Associate.

Q3: Are there any prerequisites for taking the exam?

A3: Many certifications require prior experience with the technology or at least working knowledge of related concepts before attempting the exam. It is important to check the specific requirements for each certification before taking the test.

Q4: How much does it cost to take a certification exam?

A4: The cost of taking a certification exam varies depending on which one you choose and which provider you use. Generally speaking, most exams range from $100-$500 USD depending on the provider and type of certificate being taken.

Q5: How long does it take to become certified?

A5: The time it takes to become certified depends on how much preparation is done beforehand and how quickly you are able to pass the exams required for certification. Generally speaking, most people can expect to receive their official certification within 2-6 months after completing all necessary steps.