Top 11 SOA Architect Certifications

Certifications for a SOA Architect are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge to employers. They can prove that an individual has the skills needed to successfully implement Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) solutions. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that the individual is up-to-date on the latest technologies, trends, and best practices related to SOA development. Finally, certifications can also help individuals stand out in a crowded job market and give them an edge over other applicants who do not have any certifications.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for SOA Architects and how they can enhance a SOA Architect's career.

What are SOA Architect Certifications?

SOA Architect Certification is a credential awarded by the Open Group, an international standards organization. It certifies that individuals have the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) solutions. SOA is a software architecture that enables applications to communicate and exchange data over a network in a loosely coupled fashion.

The certification shows employers that an individual has been trained in the best practices of SOA and understands how to effectively deploy it within their organization. By having certified employees, companies can ensure they are using the most up-to-date methods for developing applications, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, certification helps employees stay ahead of industry trends, allowing them to better serve their customers.

The certification process consists of two parts: passing an online exam and completing a practical project demonstrating SOA implementation skills. The exam covers topics such as service orientation principles, service modeling techniques, service lifecycle management, business process integration and enterprise application integration. The practical project requires applicants to develop a working SOA solution for a real world problem or task.

Having the SOA Architect Certification can be beneficial in many ways. It demonstrates expertise in this field which can lead to increased responsibility or career advancement opportunities within an organization or with other employers. Additionally, it will increase job prospects since many employers now require this certification when hiring new staff members with experience in SOA development. Finally, having this certification proves dedication towards staying up-to-date on the latest trends in technology which is essential for any successful IT professional today.

Pro Tip: Before attempting to pursue a SOA Architect certification, make sure you have a good understanding of the principles and concepts behind service-oriented architecture. Familiarize yourself with the different types of services and how they interact with each other. Additionally, practice creating SOA architectures on paper or in a modeling tool to gain hands-on experience.

Related: What does an SOA Architect do?

Top 11 SOA Architect Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to SOA Architects today.

1. Certified SOA Architect (CSA)

Certified SOA Architect (CSA) is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual's expertise in the field of service-oriented architecture (SOA). The CSA credential is offered by the Open Group, a global consortium that promotes open standards and best practices for IT professionals.

The Certified SOA Architect credential requires passing two exams: one on the fundamentals of SOA and another on advanced topics. The fundamental exam covers topics such as service-orientation principles, SOA design and implementation, and SOA governance. The advanced exam covers topics such as enterprise architecture, business process modeling, security, performance management, and cloud computing.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for the exams depending on an individual's experience level. It is recommended that individuals have at least 5 years of experience working with SOA before attempting either exam.

The cost of the certification varies depending on which country you are taking the exams in. In the US it costs $200 per exam or $400 for both exams.

In order to obtain the CSA credential, individuals must pass both exams within three years of starting their studies. After passing both exams, they must submit an application form along with proof of their work experience in order to receive their certificate.

2. Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA)

Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in enterprise architecture. It is offered by the Open Group, an international consortium of technology vendors, government agencies, and academic and research institutions. The CEA credential validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and implement effective enterprise architectures that align with business objectives.

The CEA exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as architecture principles, frameworks and methodologies; architecture development life cycles; business process analysis; enterprise application integration; information security; service-oriented architectures; and system integration. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $400 USD.

To obtain the CEA credential, individuals must have at least five years of experience in the field of enterprise architecture or related disciplines such as systems analysis or software engineering. They must also pass the CEA exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once certified, individuals must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education courses every three years.

3. Certified SOA Security Professional (CSSP)

The Certified SOA Security Professional (CSSP) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Software Architects (IASA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of service-oriented architecture (SOA) security.

The CSSP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of SOA security principles, best practices, and technologies. Candidates must also be able to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. To earn the CSSP credential, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as application security, identity management, authorization and access control, cryptography, web services security, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CSSP exam. During this time, candidates should review course materials provided by IASA or take an online training course that covers the topics required for the exam. Additionally, applicants should practice with sample exams and review any relevant industry publications or blogs related to SOA security.

The cost of taking the CSSP exam varies depending on where it is taken. In most cases, it costs around $500 USD. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as any associated materials needed for preparation.

4. Certified SOA Governance Professional (CSGP)

Certified SOA Governance Professional (CSGP) is a certification program that provides IT professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage and govern Service Oriented Architecture (SOA). It is designed to help organizations ensure that their SOA projects are successful, secure, and compliant with industry standards. The CSGP certification covers topics such as SOA governance principles, best practices, and the use of tools for managing SOA.

The CSGP certification can be obtained in two ways: through self-study or by attending an instructor-led course. Self-study involves completing a series of online courses and exams, while instructor-led courses involve attending classes taught by experienced instructors.

The cost of obtaining the CSGP certification varies depending on which option you choose. Self-study typically costs between $300-$400 USD, while instructor-led courses can cost upwards of $2,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam itself.

It usually takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete the requirements for the CSGP certification depending on which option you choose.

5. Oracle SOA Suite 11g Implementation Specialist Certification

Oracle SOA Suite 11g Implementation Specialist Certification is an Oracle certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in developing, deploying, and managing service-oriented architecture (SOA) solutions using the Oracle SOA Suite 11g. This certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of the Oracle SOA Suite 11g components, as well as their ability to configure and deploy them.

The certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Candidates must score at least 65% to pass the exam. The cost of the exam is $245 USD.

To obtain this certification, candidates must first attend an approved training course or have equivalent experience with Oracle SOA Suite 11g. Additionally, they must pass the Oracle SOA Suite 11g Implementation Specialist Exam (1Z0-478).

6. IBM Certified Solution Designer - WebSphere Service Registry and Repository V8.0

IBM Certified Solution Designer - WebSphere Service Registry and Repository V8.0 is a certification for professionals who are knowledgeable about the design, development, and implementation of WebSphere Service Registry and Repository (WSRR) V8.0 solutions. This certification validates that individuals have the skills to develop WSRR solutions that meet customer requirements, including the ability to configure and customize WSRR components.

The IBM Certified Solution Designer - WebSphere Service Registry and Repository V8.0 exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 68%. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

To obtain this certification, you must pass the C9530-519: IBM WebSphere Service Registry and Repository V8.0, Solution Design exam. The cost of this exam is $200 USD in most countries. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

7. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer – Azure Solutions Architect

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer – Azure Solutions Architect is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced IT professionals who design, develop, deploy and maintain cloud solutions on the Microsoft Azure platform. This certification requires a deep understanding of cloud computing technologies, including virtualization, storage, networking, identity management, security, data management and business continuity.

It typically takes around 6-9 months to complete the training and pass the exams required for this certification. To get certified as an Azure Solutions Architect, you must first have at least one year of experience designing and implementing solutions on Microsoft Azure. You must also pass two exams: AZ-300: Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies Exam and AZ-301: Microsoft Azure Architect Design Exam.

The cost for these exams varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $165 - $200 USD per exam.

8. Cisco Certified Network Professional – Service Provider (CCNP-SP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional – Service Provider (CCNP-SP) is a professional-level certification from Cisco that focuses on the design, implementation and troubleshooting of service provider networks. It is designed for network professionals who are responsible for the development and maintenance of complex service provider infrastructures.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the CCNP-SP certification program. To get certified, you need to pass three exams: Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies (SPCOR 350-501), Implementing Cisco Service Provider Advanced Routing Solutions (SPADV 300-510), and Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies (SPSD 300-515). You can find more information about these exams on the official Cisco website.

The cost of the CCNP-SP certification program depends on which training method you choose. Self-study materials can be purchased online or at bookstores, while instructor-led classes are offered by authorized training centers. Prices vary depending on location and instructor experience. The cost of taking all three exams is approximately $1,500 USD.

9. Red Hat JBoss Middleware Administrator Certification

Red Hat JBoss Middleware Administrator Certification is a professional certification program that validates an individual's ability to install, configure, and manage Red Hat JBoss middleware products. It is designed for system administrators and developers who are responsible for installing, configuring, and managing Red Hat JBoss middleware products in an enterprise environment.

It typically takes between 8-10 weeks to complete the training and certification process. The training consists of two courses: Red Hat System Administration I (RHCSA) and Red Hat JBoss Application Administration I (JB248). Both courses must be completed before taking the associated exam.

The cost of the certification depends on the type of course you take. Online courses typically cost around $1,500 USD while instructor-led courses can range from $2,000-$3,000 USD depending on location. Additionally, there is a fee for taking the certification exam which ranges from $400-$600 USD depending on your country of residence.

To get certified as a Red Hat JBoss Middleware Administrator you must pass both the RHCSA and JB248 exams with a score of 70% or higher. After passing both exams you will be awarded the Red Hat Certified Specialist in Middleware Administration badge.

10. TOGAF 9 Foundation & Certified SOA Architect

TOGAF 9 Foundation & Certified SOA Architect is a certification program offered by The Open Group, an international consortium that sets standards and certifications for IT professionals. This certification program provides a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge to help IT professionals design, build, and manage enterprise-level architectures.

The TOGAF 9 Foundation & Certified SOA Architect certification is designed to provide the foundation for understanding the principles of Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), as well as how to apply those principles to create successful solutions. It covers topics such as service-oriented analysis and design, service lifecycle management, security considerations, and more.

It typically takes between four and six months to complete the TOGAF 9 Foundation & Certified SOA Architect certification program. To get certified, individuals must first pass the TOGAF 9 Foundation exam followed by the TOGAF 9 Certified SOA Architect exam. The exams are administered online through The Open Group's website or in person at one of their authorized testing centers.

The cost of the TOGAF 9 Foundation & Certified SOA Architect certification varies depending on where you take the exams. In general, it costs around $400 USD for both exams combined.

11. Sun Java CAPS 6 Certification

Sun Java CAPS 6 Certification is a professional certification program offered by Oracle. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of system administrators, developers, and architects in deploying and managing Oracle's Sun Java Composite Application Platform Suite (CAPS) 6.

The certification tests candidates' knowledge on topics such as architecture, installation, configuration, deployment, security, and maintenance of Java CAPS 6. It also covers topics related to developing applications using the platform.

To get certified, candidates must pass two exams: 1Z0-895: Oracle Certified Professional - Sun Java CAPS 6 Installation & Deployment and 1Z0-896: Oracle Certified Professional - Sun Java CAPS 6 Development. The exams can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center worldwide. Each exam costs $245 USD.

On average it takes about 3 months to complete the certification process from start to finish. Candidates should plan for about 2 weeks of study time for each exam before sitting for the test.

Do You Really Need a SOA Architect Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an SOA Architect Certificate to be a successful service-oriented architecture (SOA) architect. However, having an SOA Architect Certificate can be beneficial if it is from a reputable and recognized organization.

An SOA Architect Certificate can demonstrate that the holder has the necessary skills and knowledge to work with service-oriented architectures. It shows that they have undergone thorough training and have been tested on their understanding of best practices for designing, developing, and deploying SOA solutions. This certification also demonstrates that the holder understands how to integrate different technologies into an overall system in order to make it more efficient and secure.

In addition to showing expertise in SOA design and implementation, having an SOA Architect Certificate can also help to open up career opportunities. Many employers are now looking for candidates with this type of certification as they want assurance that their employees have the skills necessary for working within an SOA environment.

Having said that, it’s important to note that having an SOA Architect Certificate does not guarantee success or employment in this field. The most important factor when it comes to being successful in this field is experience – both hands-on experience with actual projects as well as theoretical knowledge gained through study and self-learning. There are many excellent resources available online which can help those interested in becoming an SOA architect gain the necessary knowledge without needing a formal certification program.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an SOA Architect Certificate depends on your individual situation. If you already have extensive experience working with service-oriented architectures then you may not need one – however if you don’t have any experience then completing a certification program may be beneficial for helping you get started in this field.

Related: SOA Architect Resume Examples

FAQs About SOA Architect Certifications

1. What is an SOA Architect Certification?

Answer: An SOA Architect certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a person has the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and deploy Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) solutions.

2. What are the prerequisites for obtaining an SOA Architect Certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, most vendor-specific certifications require some experience with the specific technology or platform in question. Additionally, many certifying bodies require applicants to have at least five years of experience in IT architecture and/or related fields.

3. How long does it take to complete an SOA Architect Certification?

Answer: It depends on the certification program you choose; however, most certifications can be completed within 12 to 18 months when studying part-time.

4. What types of jobs can I get with an SOA Architect Certification?

Answer: With an SOA Architect certification, you can pursue a wide range of job opportunities including software architects, enterprise architects, system integrators, infrastructure engineers, project managers and more.

5. Are there any online resources available for preparing for an SOA Architect Certification?

Answer: Yes! There are many online resources available such as practice exams, study guides and tutorial videos which can help you prepare for your chosen certification program.