Top 11 Sharepoint Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for a SharePoint consultant in the job market because they demonstrate that the consultant has the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their role. Certifications provide employers with an objective measure of a candidate’s technical abilities, as well as providing validation of the individual’s capabilities. Employers also view certifications as evidence of dedication to staying up-to-date on relevant technologies and best practices. In addition, many organizations require certain certifications for certain roles, so having a certification can make it easier to get hired.

This article reviews the top certifications for Sharepoint Consultants and explains how they can help further a sharepoint consultant's career.

What are Sharepoint Consultant Certifications?

SharePoint Consultant Certification is a professional certification program designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and expertise in the use of Microsoft SharePoint technologies. The certification is offered by Microsoft and requires individuals to pass exams that cover topics related to SharePoint such as architecture, installation, configuration, customization, administration, and development.

The goal of the certification is to ensure that professionals have the necessary skills and knowledge needed to properly deploy and manage SharePoint solutions. Having this certification can help individuals stand out from their peers when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within their current organizations. It also indicates that they have a strong understanding of the technology and can provide valuable insight into how best to utilize it for business needs. Additionally, having this certification can give individuals access to exclusive resources from Microsoft and other industry partners that can help them stay up-to-date on the newest SharePoint features. Ultimately, obtaining this certification can give professionals a competitive edge in their career paths by demonstrating their commitment to staying ahead of the curve with their knowledge of SharePoint technologies.

Pro Tip: When considering a SharePoint consultant certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and choose one that meets your specific needs. Also, look for a program that offers hands-on experience and ongoing support so you can stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in the industry.

Related: What does a Sharepoint Consultant do?

Top 11 Sharepoint Consultant Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): SharePoint is a certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in designing, deploying, configuring, and managing SharePoint solutions. It covers topics such as installation and configuration of SharePoint Server, integration with Office 365, creating web applications and sites, configuring authentication and authorization options, managing search features, and more.

To get the MCSE: SharePoint certification, you must first pass two exams: Exam 70-339: Managing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016 and Exam 70-338: Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016. Both exams are offered by Microsoft through Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost for the MCSE: SharePoint certification varies depending on your country and currency. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $150 to $200 USD per exam. The total cost for both exams would be around $300-$400 USD.

It usually takes about 6 months to prepare for the MCSE:SharePoint certification if you have prior experience working with Microsoft technologies such as Windows Server or Office 365. If you are new to these technologies, it can take up to 12 months or longer to prepare for the exams.

2. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): SharePoint is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in configuring and administering Microsoft SharePoint technology. This certification validates the ability to design, implement, configure, and troubleshoot a Microsoft SharePoint environment.

It typically takes around three months of study and preparation to become MCTS: SharePoint certified. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and hands-on labs that test your knowledge of core areas within the SharePoint platform such as installation, configuration, security, administration, development, and maintenance.

To get certified you must pass Exam 70-331 or 70-332. You can register for the exams at the Microsoft Learning website or through a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of each exam is $150 USD.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Office 365

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Office 365 is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in administering, configuring, and deploying Office 365 services. It demonstrates the ability to manage Office 365 identities and requirements, as well as Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, Skype for Business Online, and Office 365 ProPlus.

It typically takes around three months to get the MCSA: Office 365 certification. To become certified you will need to pass two exams: Exam 70-346 Managing Office 365 Identities and Requirements and Exam 70-347 Enabling Office 365 Services. Both exams are available through Microsoft Learning Partners or Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost of the MCSA: Office 365 certification depends on where you take the exam. The cost of each exam is $165 USD at Microsoft Learning Partners or $150 USD at Pearson VUE testing centers. So the total cost for both exams would be around $330 USD.

4. Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): SharePoint

Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) SharePoint is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge to develop applications and solutions using Microsoft SharePoint technologies. It covers the following areas: SharePoint architecture, development, deployment, administration, and customization.

The MCPD SharePoint certification requires passing three exams: Exam 70-331: Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013; Exam 70-332: Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013; and Exam 70-488: Developing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions. The exams are offered through Pearson VUE and Prometric testing centers and cost $150 USD each.

It typically takes 3–6 months to prepare for the MCPD SharePoint certification, depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, you must pass all three exams within two years of starting the program. After passing all three exams, you will receive your MCPD SharePoint certification from Microsoft.

5. CompTIA Cloud+ Certification

CompTIA Cloud+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills necessary to understand, design, manage, and troubleshoot cloud computing environments. It covers topics such as virtualization, security, infrastructure, resource management, and business continuity.

The CompTIA Cloud+ certification exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and contains a maximum of 100 multiple-choice questions. To earn the certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900.

To get CompTIA Cloud+ certified, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. The cost of the exam varies by region but generally ranges from $250-$350 USD. You can also purchase practice exams to help prepare for the test.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CompTIA Cloud+ certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks. The certification is valid for three years from when it was issued and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

6. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ Certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals related to networking technologies. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals have the necessary skills to troubleshoot, configure, and manage both wired and wireless networks.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get CompTIA Network+ certified. The time frame depends on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exam.

To get CompTIA Network+ certified, you must pass a 90-minute exam with a score of at least 720 out of 900 points. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, industry standards and best practices.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ certification exam varies depending on where you take it. However, most testing centers charge around $300 USD for the exam.

7. Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Administrator

Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Administrator is a certification that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in managing, deploying, configuring, and troubleshooting Windows Server 2008/R2 and Windows Server 2012/R2 systems. It also covers network infrastructure services such as Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS), Group Policy, DHCP, DNS, Remote Access, Network Policy and Access Services (NPAS), Hyper-V virtualization technology, and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Enterprise Administrator certification exam. The preparation process includes studying the official Microsoft curriculum for the exam as well as attending instructor-led training courses or self-study courses.

To get the certification, you must pass two exams: Exam 70-410 Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012/R2 and Exam 70-411 Administering Windows Server 2012/R2. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

The cost of the two exams is approximately $150 USD per exam ($300 USD total).

8. Citrix Certified Administrator (CCA) for XenApp and XenDesktop

The Citrix Certified Administrator (CCA) for XenApp and XenDesktop is a professional certification that validates an individual’s knowledge of the Citrix XenApp and XenDesktop products. The CCA recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the skills necessary to successfully install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot a Citrix virtualization solution. It is designed to help organizations identify qualified professionals who can ensure the successful implementation of their Citrix environment.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CCA exam. During this time, candidates should become familiar with the features and functions of both XenApp and XenDesktop, as well as understand how they interact with each other. Candidates should also be able to demonstrate proficiency in installation, configuration, management, troubleshooting and performance optimization of a Citrix environment.

To get the CCA certification, candidates must pass the CXD-301 exam. This exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of XenApp/XenDesktop components; managing user access; configuring policies; managing application delivery; monitoring performance; troubleshooting issues; and optimizing system performance. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

The cost of taking the CXD-301 exam is $200 USD (or equivalent in local currency).

9. Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration is a process of customizing the Microsoft Dynamics CRM software to meet the specific needs of an organization. This customization involves making changes to the existing features, adding new features, and configuring the system to suit the company’s business processes.

The customization process typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the project. The cost of customization will depend on the scope of work and how much time it takes for completion. Generally, customization projects can range from a few hundred dollars up to thousands depending on the size and complexity of the project.

To get started with Microsoft Dynamics CRM Customization and Configuration, you need to first identify your business requirements. Once you have identified these requirements, you can then decide which features you would like to customize or configure in order to meet those requirements. After that, you can contact a Microsoft Partner or third-party vendor who specializes in Dynamics CRM customization and configuration services. They will help you define your project scope and timeline as well as provide an estimate for how much it will cost. Once everything is agreed upon, they will then begin working on customizing your Dynamics CRM system according to your specifications.

10. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect - Associate is a certification program offered by Amazon that validates the skills and knowledge of individuals in designing, deploying and operating applications on the AWS platform. It is designed for those who are experienced in designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform.

The exam takes about 130 minutes to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on location, but typically ranges from $150–$300 USD.

In order to get certified, you must pass an online examination administered by Amazon Web Services. To prepare for the exam, you should have hands-on experience with AWS services such as EC2, S3, RDS, ELB, IAM and VPCs. You should also be familiar with core AWS services such as CloudFormation, CloudWatch and Route 53. Additionally, you should have a good understanding of security best practices when using AWS services.

To get certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate you must first register for the exam through Amazon's website or through a third-party testing provider such as Pearson VUE or Kryterion. Once registered, you will need to schedule an appointment at a testing center near you where you can take the exam. After passing the exam successfully, your certification will be valid for two years before needing to be renewed.

11. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to administer an Oracle Database 12c system. It is one of the most sought after certifications in the industry, and it can be used to demonstrate your expertise in administering Oracle databases.

The Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional exam takes approximately three hours to complete and contains multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, you must score at least 70%. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $245 USD to $395 USD.

To become certified, you must first register for the exam through Oracle University’s website. Once registered, you will be able to access study materials and practice exams that will help you prepare for the actual test. After passing the exam, you will receive an official certificate from Oracle University that verifies your status as an Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional.

Do You Really Need a Sharepoint Consultant Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Sharepoint Consultant Certificate is not a requirement in order to become a successful consultant. However, it can be beneficial in certain situations.

For example, if you are an experienced consultant who wants to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge of Sharepoint to potential clients, then having a certificate may help you stand out from other consultants and increase your chances of getting hired. Additionally, if you want to specialize in Sharepoint consulting or take on more complex projects, having a certificate can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to do so.

Furthermore, if you are looking for work within an organization that uses Sharepoint, having a certificate may make you more competitive against other applicants who don’t have one.

In summary, there are many advantages to obtaining a Sharepoint Consultant Certificate but it is by no means essential for success as a consultant. Ultimately, your experience and knowledge will be the most important factor in determining whether or not you land the job.

Related: Sharepoint Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Sharepoint Consultant Certifications

Q1. What is a Sharepoint Consultant Certification?

A1. A Sharepoint Consultant Certification is a certification program offered by Microsoft to help professionals develop and demonstrate their expertise in designing, deploying, and managing solutions based on the SharePoint platform. It includes topics such as architecture, security, governance, design, and development of custom applications.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Sharepoint Consultant?

A2. To become certified as a Sharepoint Consultant you must have experience in developing solutions on the SharePoint platform and pass two exams: Exam 70-331: Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 and Exam 70-332: Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013.

Q3. How long does it take to complete the certification process?

A3. The certification process typically takes between 4-6 months depending on your experience level with the technology and how much time you can commit to studying for the exams.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified Sharepoint Consultant?

A4. Yes, you must have at least two years of experience working with Microsoft technologies including Windows Server 2012/2016 and SQL Server 2012/2014/2016 before attempting the certification exams. Additionally, you should have knowledge of HTML5/CSS3/JavaScript programming languages and be familiar with cloud computing concepts such as Office 365 or Azure services.

Q5. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Sharepoint Consultant?

A5: Becoming a certified Sharepoint consultant offers many benefits including better job opportunities, higher salaries, recognition from employers and peers as an expert in the field, increased credibility when approaching clients or potential customers, access to exclusive resources from Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCPs), and more opportunities for career advancement within organizations that use or plan to use the SharePoint platform