Top 11 Sharepoint Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a SharePoint analyst in the job market because they demonstrate an individual's mastery of specific skills and knowledge. Companies are increasingly looking for certified professionals to ensure that their IT staff is up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends. Certifications also serve as a way to validate an individual's expertise and experience in the field, which can help them stand out from other applicants. Additionally, certifications can lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and more career advancement opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the best certifications for Sharepoint Analysts and provide insight into how they can help advance an analyst's career.

What are Sharepoint Analyst Certifications?

SharePoint Analyst Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills related to the Microsoft SharePoint platform. This certification is offered by the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) program, which is designed to ensure that individuals are knowledgeable and experienced in working with the technology.

The SharePoint Analyst Certification covers topics such as installation, configuration, customization, administration, deployment, security, service applications and development of SharePoint solutions. The certification exam tests an individual’s ability to configure and manage core services in order to create custom solutions for organizations. It also tests an individual’s ability to troubleshoot issues related to SharePoint solutions.

Having this certification can help individuals stand out from other job candidates when applying for positions that require a strong understanding of the SharePoint platform. As companies increasingly use SharePoint for their internal and external communications systems, having this certification can demonstrate expertise in this area and give employers confidence in hiring a qualified candidate. Additionally, it may provide access to more job opportunities and better compensation packages.

Pro tip: When preparing for a SharePoint analyst certification exam, focus on the most important topics such as SharePoint architecture, installation and configuration, security, workflow, collaboration and development. While it is beneficial to review the entire syllabus, you should prioritize these core concepts to ensure that you are well-prepared for the exam.

Related: What does a Sharepoint Analyst do?

Top 11 Sharepoint Analyst Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): SharePoint is a certification that validates an individual's expertise in designing and implementing solutions based on Microsoft SharePoint. The MCSE: SharePoint certification demonstrates the individual’s ability to design, build, configure, deploy, and manage a SharePoint solution in an enterprise environment.

In order to obtain the MCSE: SharePoint certification, an individual must pass two exams: Exam 70-331 Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 and Exam 70-332 Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013. Both exams are available through Prometric or VUE testing centers. Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $150 USD each.

The recommended preparation for these exams includes taking courses such as 20331A Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 and 20332A Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 from a certified learning partner or instructor-led training program. Additionally, individuals should also have hands-on experience with deploying and managing a live production environment running on Windows Server 2012 R2 with SQL Server 2014 or higher.

Overall, obtaining the MCSE:Sharepoint certification requires passing two exams which cost $300 USD total, as well as completing recommended preparation courses or having hands-on experience with deploying and managing a live production environment running on Windows Server 2012 R2 with SQL Server 2014 or higher.

2. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): SharePoint is a certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the design and implementation of Microsoft SharePoint solutions. The MCTS: SharePoint certification validates an individual’s skills in deploying, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Microsoft SharePoint Server 2010 environments.

The MCTS: SharePoint certification requires passing two exams: Exam 70-667 (TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Configuring) and Exam 70-668 (PRO: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Administrator). Both exams must be taken within 12 months of each other to become certified.

To get the MCTS: SharePoint certification, you will need to pass both exams with a minimum score of 700 out of 1000. You can register for these exams at Prometric or Pearson VUE test centers. It usually takes around 4-6 weeks to get the results after taking the exam.

The cost for each exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $125-$150 USD per exam.

3. Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): SharePoint is a certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in developing and deploying applications on the Microsoft SharePoint platform. This certification requires passing three exams: Exam 70-573: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Application Development; Exam 70-576: PRO: Designing and Developing Microsoft SharePoint 2010 Applications; and Exam 70-577: TS: Microsoft SharePoint 2010, Configuring.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete all of the required exams for the MCPD: SharePoint certification. To get started, you will need to purchase an exam voucher from Microsoft or an authorized testing center. The cost of each exam voucher varies depending on your location, but generally ranges from $150 to $200 USD per exam.

Once you have purchased your vouchers, you can register for the exams through the Pearson VUE website. After registering for each exam, you will need to study and prepare for it using resources provided by Microsoft or other vendors. Once you have passed all three exams, you will be awarded the MCPD: SharePoint certification.

4. Microsoft Office 365 Certified Solutions Associate: SharePoint

Microsoft Office 365 Certified Solutions Associate: SharePoint is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in the use of Microsoft Office 365 and its associated technologies, including SharePoint. The certification exam covers topics such as configuring and managing SharePoint Online, creating and managing sites, working with content management features, and developing custom solutions.

It typically takes up to six months to prepare for the exam. To get certified, individuals must first register for the exam through the Microsoft website. Once registered, they can access online training materials and practice exams to help them prepare for the test.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location; however, it generally ranges from $150 to $200 USD. It is important to note that this fee does not include any additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as books or courses.

5. CompTIA Project+ Certification

CompTIA Project+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of project managers. It certifies that professionals have the necessary skills to manage projects successfully and understand how to work with stakeholders, create schedules, allocate resources, and manage risks.

The certification exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. To get the CompTIA Project+ certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900. The exam covers topics such as project management fundamentals, project planning and scheduling, risk management, communication and stakeholder management, resource allocation and budgeting, quality assurance and control, project closure processes and more.

To prepare for the exam, you can take an instructor-led training course or self-study using online resources such as practice tests or study guides. You can also take advantage of free resources offered by CompTIA such as their online community forums where you can ask questions or discuss topics related to the certification with other professionals.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Project+ exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

6. CIW Site Development Associate Certification

The CIW Site Development Associate Certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in developing and maintaining websites. The certification covers topics such as web page design, HTML coding, CSS styling, client-side scripting, server-side scripting, database development, e-commerce principles and more.

It typically takes between 30 to 40 hours of study time to prepare for the CIW Site Development Associate exam. Candidates should have a basic understanding of web technologies before attempting the exam.

To get the CIW Site Development Associate certification, candidates must pass the CIW Site Development Associate Exam (1D0-620). The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. It costs $150 USD to take the exam.

7. EC-Council Certified Secure Programmer (ECSP) for SharePoint

EC-Council Certified Secure Programmer (ECSP) for SharePoint is a certification program designed to help developers and administrators build secure applications on the Microsoft SharePoint platform. The certification is offered by the EC-Council, an international organization that provides certifications in information security and e-business.

The ECSP for SharePoint certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of developing secure applications on the Microsoft SharePoint platform. Candidates must pass a three-hour exam consisting of multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as authentication and authorization, data validation, encryption and decryption, web services security, and application security best practices.

The ECSP for SharePoint certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam. To maintain the certification, candidates must recertify every three years by taking an updated version of the exam or attending approved training courses.

The cost of taking the ECSP for SharePoint exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$500 USD. The cost includes both registration fees and examination fees.

To get certified as an ECSP for SharePoint professional, you must first register with the EC-Council website and pay any applicable fees associated with registration. After registering, you will be provided with study materials and practice tests to prepare for your exam. Once you have completed your preparation, you can then schedule your exam at a testing center near you or online through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

8. Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration Certification

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in configuring, customizing, and deploying Microsoft Dynamics CRM solutions. The certification covers topics such as creating entities, setting up security roles, configuring business rules, implementing workflow processes, and integrating with other applications.

The certification exam consists of 40 to 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To earn the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher.

To get the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration Certification, you must first register for the exam at the Microsoft Learning website. You can then purchase a voucher code that will enable you to take the exam at an authorized testing center.

The cost of the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration Certification exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases, it costs around $165 USD to take the exam.

9. CompTIA Cloud Essentials Certification

CompTIA Cloud Essentials is a certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand cloud computing technology, implement cloud solutions, and manage cloud operations. This certification is designed for IT professionals who want to gain an understanding of the fundamentals of cloud computing and how it can be used in their organizations.

The CompTIA Cloud Essentials exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as cloud concepts, service models, deployment models, security and compliance, and more. To earn the certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of at least 700 out of 900.

To get the CompTIA Cloud Essentials certification, candidates must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or CompTIA’s website. After registering for the exam, candidates must purchase an exam voucher from either Pearson VUE or CompTIA’s website. Candidates can then schedule their exams at any authorized testing center or online proctored environment.

The cost for the CompTIA Cloud Essentials certification exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $250 USD per attempt.

10. Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is an Oracle certification that validates the skills and knowledge of database administrators. The OCP certification demonstrates a professional's ability to manage and maintain an Oracle database in an enterprise environment.

It takes approximately six months to one year to get the OCP certification, depending on your experience level and how much time you devote to studying for the exam. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-052 Oracle Database 11g: Administration I and 1Z0-053 Oracle Database 11g: Administration II. These exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers or online proctored exams.

The cost of the OCP certification depends on where you take the exam. If you take it at a Pearson VUE testing center, it will cost $245 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes. If you take it online, it will cost $125 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes.

11. IBM WebSphere Portal Administration and Development Certification

IBM WebSphere Portal Administration and Development Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced IBM WebSphere Portal administrators and developers. This certification proves that an individual has the expertise needed to design, develop, deploy, and maintain enterprise-level WebSphere Portal solutions.

The duration of the IBM WebSphere Portal Administration and Development Certification program depends on the level of expertise sought by the individual. The basic level certification requires approximately 40 hours of study time, while more advanced certifications may require up to 80 hours or more of study time.

To get certified in IBM WebSphere Portal Administration and Development, individuals must take an exam from IBM's Professional Certification Program. The exam covers topics such as portal architecture, installation and configuration, security management, web content management, portlet development, application integration, performance tuning, system administration tasks, troubleshooting techniques and more.

The cost for taking the IBM WebSphere Portal Administration and Development Certification exam varies depending on location but typically ranges between $200-$300 USD.

Do You Really Need a Sharepoint Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals and the type of job you are looking for. If you are interested in a job that requires Sharepoint skills, then yes, it would be beneficial to have a Sharepoint Analyst Certificate. With this certification, employers know that you have the necessary knowledge and experience to perform Sharepoint-related tasks proficiently.

Having a Sharepoint Analyst Certificate could also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Having such a certificate shows potential employers that you are committed to learning and growing your skill set in order to better serve their needs. Additionally, having this certification may open up more job opportunities as more companies look for employees who possess relevant certifications.

On the other hand, if you do not need a Sharepoint Analyst Certificate for your current or desired job, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue one. Many people learn the basics of using Sharepoint through self-study and practice instead of through formal instruction. However, if your employer does require such a certification or if you want to consider yourself an expert in the field of Sharepoint, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial for your career development.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Sharepoint Analyst Certificate depends on what type of job you are looking for and how much experience or expertise you already have with the software. If it is required by an employer or if it can help further your career prospects, then getting certified could be worth considering.

Related: Sharepoint Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Sharepoint Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Sharepoint Analyst Certification?

A1. A Sharepoint Analyst Certification is a professional certification program designed to demonstrate a person’s skills and knowledge in the areas of Microsoft SharePoint Server, Windows Server, and other related technologies. It also validates a person’s ability to design, deploy, configure, and manage SharePoint solutions for business environments.

Q2. How do I get certified as a Sharepoint Analyst?

A2. To become certified as a Sharepoint Analyst, you must pass the Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam for the technology you are pursuing certification in. The MCP exam covers topics such as Windows Server, Office 365, and Azure services.

Q3. What types of jobs can I get with a Sharepoint Analyst certification?

A3. With a Sharepoint Analyst certification, you can pursue careers such as IT administrator, systems analyst, developer or consultant in organizations that use SharePoint or related technologies. You may also be able to find employment as an independent consultant or contractor for companies that need assistance with their existing solutions or who require someone with expertise in developing new solutions using these technologies.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Sharepoint Analyst?

A4. The amount of time needed to prepare for and pass the MCP exam depends on your experience level and how much time you can dedicate to studying each day or week. Generally speaking, it takes most people several months to study for and pass this exam successfully.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for taking the MCP exam?

A5: Yes, there are some prerequisites you must meet before taking the MCP exam including having at least one year of experience working with Microsoft products such as Windows Server or Office 365; being proficient in scripting languages like PowerShell; understanding server administration concepts; and having experience managing an enterprise environment that includes multiple servers running different versions of Windows Server operating system software as well as other services such as Exchange and SQL Server databases.