Top 10 Senior Data Analyst Certifications

Certifications are an important way for senior data analysts to demonstrate their expertise in the job market. They provide employers with a tangible proof of the analyst’s qualifications and abilities, which can give them a competitive edge over other candidates who don't have certifications. Certifications also demonstrate an analyst's commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in their field, which is essential in today's rapidly changing data landscape. Finally, certifications can open doors to new opportunities by providing access to exclusive networks, conferences, and job postings that might not be available to non-certified analysts.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Senior Data Analysts and explains how they can help advance a senior data analyst's career.

What are Senior Data Analyst Certifications?

Senior Data Analyst Certification is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have advanced knowledge and expertise in data analysis. This certification provides recognition of the individual’s ability to effectively analyze and interpret complex datasets, develop new insights from the data, and communicate those insights to stakeholders. It also demonstrates the individual’s commitment to their field of data analysis.

The Senior Data Analyst Certification can be beneficial for those looking to demonstrate their capabilities as a data analyst or for employers who are looking for qualified professionals with a specific level of expertise in data analysis. With this certification, an individual can demonstrate their understanding of advanced concepts such as statistical modeling, predictive analytics, machine learning algorithms, natural language processing (NLP), and more. This certification can also provide evidence that the individual is committed to staying up-to-date on current trends in the field of data analysis and has the necessary skillset to handle complex datasets. Having this certification may also give an individual a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a senior data analyst certification, make sure to research the program thoroughly to ensure that it is accredited and offers comprehensive training in the latest data analysis techniques. Additionally, look for certifications that provide hands-on experience and real-world applications of the concepts being taught.

Related: What does a Senior Data Analyst do?

Top 10 Senior Data Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Senior Data Analysts today.

1. Certified Analytics Professional (CAP)

Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the technical, business and analytical skills required to successfully deploy analytics solutions in an organization.

The certification process involves completing an online application, passing an exam, and meeting certain experience requirements. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as data mining, predictive modeling, optimization, statistical analysis, machine learning, and decision-making. Candidates must have at least three years of professional experience in analytics or a related field in order to be eligible to take the exam.

The CAP exam is offered twice a year in April and October. To register for the exam, candidates must submit their applications at least two months before the scheduled date. The cost of taking the exam is $400 USD plus any applicable taxes.

Once candidates pass the exam they will receive their CAP certificate within four weeks. They will also gain access to exclusive resources such as webinars, case studies and job postings from INFORMS members.

2. Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP)

Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). The CBIP certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge and skills required to effectively analyze, design, develop, and implement business intelligence solutions.

The CBIP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of data warehousing, business analytics, and other related topics. To earn the CBIP certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers a variety of topics related to business intelligence.

The CBIP exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $325 USD for IIBA members and $400 USD for non-members. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements in order to be eligible for the CBIP certification.

To get started on the path to becoming a Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP), you will need to register for the exam through IIBA's website. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your online study materials and prepare for the exam. Once you have completed your preparation, you can then schedule your exam date and time through IIBA's website.

3. Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP)

Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) is a certification program offered by the Data Management Association International (DAMA-I). It is designed to recognize individuals who have attained a level of proficiency in data management. The CDMP program provides a comprehensive set of knowledge and skills that are necessary for successful data management in any organization.

The CDMP program consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires the completion of an exam and the successful completion of all three levels results in the attainment of the CDMP designation.

To become a CDMP, you must first complete the DAMA-I Foundation Level coursework and pass the exam. This coursework covers topics such as data governance, data architecture, data modeling, data quality, metadata management, and more. After completing this coursework, you will be eligible to take the Intermediate Level exam which covers topics such as business intelligence, master data management, big data analytics, and more. Finally, after passing both exams you will be eligible to take the Advanced Level exam which covers topics such as predictive analytics and artificial intelligence.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three levels of the CDMP program depending on your current knowledge base and learning style.

To get started with becoming a CDMP you must first join DAMA-I as a member. Membership fees vary depending on your country but are typically around $100 USD per year. After joining DAMA-I you can purchase access to their online learning platform which includes access to their courses as well as practice exams for each level of the CDMP program. The cost for access to their online learning platform varies but is typically around $500-$600 USD per year depending on how many courses you need access to. Additionally there may be additional costs associated with taking each individual exam if they are not included in your membership or online learning platform fees.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an information security certification developed by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)2. It is a globally recognized standard of achievement that confirms an individual's knowledge in the field of information security.

The CISSP certification requires a minimum of five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). The CBK covers topics such as asset security, security engineering, communications and network security, identity and access management, software development security, and more.

To obtain a CISSP certification, candidates must pass an exam consisting of 250 multiple-choice questions. The exam takes up to six hours to complete and is offered in English at testing centers around the world. Candidates must also agree to abide by (ISC)2’s Code of Ethics before they are eligible for certification.

The cost for the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $699 - $999 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain locations or under certain conditions.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing, implementing, and managing data solutions. It focuses on the key skills needed to work with data-driven solutions such as Microsoft SQL Server, Azure Data Services, and Power BI.

The MCSE: DM&A certification requires that applicants have at least one year of experience working with data solutions, as well as passing two exams. The exams are 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse and 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models. Both exams cost $165 each.

It typically takes about three months of studying to prepare for the MCSE: DM&A certification. Candidates should plan to spend at least 20 hours per week studying for the exam. In addition to studying, candidates should also practice using the tools they will be tested on during the exam. This includes Microsoft SQL Server, Azure Data Services, and Power BI.

The cost of obtaining the MCSE: DM&A certification depends on how much study material you purchase or subscribe to and whether you take an instructor-led course or self-study. The cost of the two exams is $330 total ($165 each). Additionally, there may be costs associated with purchasing study materials or subscribing to online courses/tutorials/webinars related to the topics covered in the exam.

6. IBM Certified Data Architect – Big Data

IBM Certified Data Architect – Big Data is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in designing and implementing big data solutions. It is designed for professionals who have experience working with large-scale, complex data architectures. The certification requires the successful completion of an exam and validates knowledge of big data architecture, design principles, and best practices.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the IBM Certified Data Architect – Big Data exam. Preparation involves gaining hands-on experience with IBM products such as InfoSphere BigInsights, IBM Streams, IBM Cloudant, and IBM Watson Analytics. Additionally, candidates should be familiar with Hadoop, MapReduce, Apache Spark, and other open source technologies used in big data solutions.

To get the certification, candidates must pass the IBM Certified Data Architect – Big Data exam (C2090-013). This exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 90 minutes. Candidates must score at least 70% on this exam to pass.

The cost of the exam varies by country but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

7. SAS Certified Advanced Analytics Professional

SAS Certified Advanced Analytics Professional is a professional certification program offered by SAS, a leader in analytics and data science. This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the use of SAS tools for advanced analytics. It is the highest level of SAS certification available and is considered a premier credential for analytics professionals.

The certification process takes approximately 4-6 months to complete, depending on the individual's experience and background. The process consists of four components: completing an application form, passing an online assessment, attending a virtual training course, and taking an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as programming, data manipulation, predictive modeling, machine learning algorithms, and big data analysis.

To get certified as an Advanced Analytics Professional, applicants must first submit their application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of education or work experience. Once approved, they must then pass the online assessment which tests their knowledge of SAS tools and techniques used in advanced analytics. Following this step, they must attend the virtual training course which covers topics such as predictive modeling and machine learning algorithms. Finally, they must take the exam to demonstrate their mastery of these topics.

The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on your country or region but typically ranges from $2,000 to $3,500 USD (including all applicable taxes).

8. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Associate

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Associate (OCA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of database administrators in Oracle Database 12c. The OCA credential provides employers with an objective measure of a candidate’s ability to manage Oracle databases.

It typically takes around 3-6 months to prepare for the OCA exam, depending on your level of experience and knowledge. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-061: Oracle Database 12c: SQL Fundamentals and 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Administration. Both exams are administered by Pearson VUE, the official testing provider for Oracle certifications.

The cost of taking the OCA exams varies depending on your country of residence. In the United States, each exam costs $245 USD. You can find detailed pricing information on the Pearson VUE website.

9. Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst

Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst is a certification program offered by Cloudera, a leading provider of enterprise data management solutions. The certification is designed to validate an individual’s ability to use Cloudera’s suite of tools and technologies to analyze and manipulate data. It is targeted at professionals who are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining data warehouses, data lakes, and other big-data solutions.

The certification consists of one exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge in areas such as querying, ingesting, transforming, and visualizing data using Apache Hadoop and related technologies. The exam is administered online through the Kryterion Global Testing Network. Candidates must score 70% or higher on the exam in order to pass and become certified.

The exam typically takes around two hours to complete. However, it can take up to four hours depending on the candidate's experience level with the topics covered in the exam.

In order to get certified as a Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst, candidates must first register for the exam through Kryterion's website. They must then purchase an Exam Voucher from Cloudera which costs $295 USD (as of May 2021). After purchasing the voucher, candidates can schedule their exam appointment with Kryterion at any time within one year from purchase date.

Once they have completed their exam successfully, candidates will receive an email from Cloudera confirming their successful completion of the certification program along with instructions on how to access their digital badge and certificate of completion.

10. Tableau Desktop Specialist Certification

Tableau Desktop Specialist Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to help you demonstrate your expertise in Tableau Desktop. This certification is aimed at professionals who want to prove their knowledge and skills in creating and interpreting visualizations with Tableau Desktop.

The certification consists of a single exam that tests your ability to create and interpret visualizations, use calculations, build dashboards, and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass it.

In order to get the Tableau Desktop Specialist Certification, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE, which is the official testing provider for Tableau certifications. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email from Tableau verifying your certification status. You will then be able to download a digital badge that can be used on your resume or website as proof of your certification status. Additionally, you will be added to the list of certified professionals on Tableau's website so employers can easily verify your credentials.

Overall, the process of getting certified should take about 2-3 weeks from start to finish depending on when you are able to schedule your test date with Pearson VUE.

Do You Really Need a Senior Data Analyst Certificate?

No, you do not need a senior data analyst certificate to become a successful data analyst. However, there are many benefits to obtaining one. A senior data analyst certificate can provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the field of data analysis. It can also demonstrate your commitment to the profession and make you more competitive in the job market.

Having a senior data analyst certificate may also give you access to specialized training programs or mentorship opportunities that will help you hone your skills and stay current on the latest trends in data analysis. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire someone who has completed a certification program as it shows that they have taken the initiative to learn about their field.

Overall, having a senior data analyst certificate is not necessary for success in this profession, but it can certainly be beneficial. Depending on your career goals and level of expertise, it might be worth considering whether obtaining such a certification would be beneficial for you.

Related: Senior Data Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Senior Data Analyst Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Senior Data Analyst?

A: To become a Senior Data Analyst, you should have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or another related field. You should also have experience with data analysis and data science tools such as Python, SQL, Tableau, and Hadoop.

2. What certifications are available for Senior Data Analysts?

A: There are several certifications available for Senior Data Analysts, including the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) from INFORMS Analytics Certification Program; the Certified Data Scientist (CDS) from the International Institute for Analytics; and the Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) from TDWI.

3. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Senior Data Analyst?

A: Getting certified as a Senior Data Analyst can help you stand out in the job market and open up new opportunities. It can also demonstrate your knowledge of data analysis and data science best practices to employers. Additionally, it can give you access to professional networks and resources that can help advance your career.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a Senior Data Analyst?

A: The cost of certification varies depending on which certification program you choose and whether or not you take an exam preparation course or obtain study materials before taking the exam. Generally speaking, certification programs range from $500-$3000 USD.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a Senior Data Analyst?

A: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how familiar you are with data analysis and data science concepts before taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from several months to over a year depending on your level of preparedness when beginning the certification process.