Top 10 Systems Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a systems analyst in the job market because they demonstrate expertise and knowledge in the field. They provide assurance to employers that the systems analyst has earned specific qualifications and has the skills needed to perform well on the job. Certifications also help employers differentiate candidates since they provide evidence of an individual’s commitment to their profession, as well as their competency and experience. Additionally, certifications can open up career advancement opportunities and salary increases.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Systems Analysts and explain how they can help to advance a Systems Analyst's career.

What are Systems Analyst Certifications?

Systems analyst certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in designing, developing, and implementing systems to solve business problems. It is typically earned by passing an exam administered by a recognized certifying body, such as the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).

This certification can help improve career prospects for individuals looking to advance their careers in systems analysis. By showing employers that they have the necessary skills to design and implement effective systems solutions, certified systems analysts are more likely to be hired or promoted than those without this designation. Additionally, having this certification may make it easier for professionals to transition into other roles within the organization since many of the skills required for systems analysis are transferable across departments.

The certification also provides a network of peers who can provide support and advice on best practices related to system analysis projects. This network of professionals can be invaluable when it comes to problem solving or finding resources for specific projects. Furthermore, having this certification may also enable individuals to access exclusive job postings or conferences where they can learn about new trends and technologies in the field.

Pro Tip: When considering a Systems Analyst certification, make sure to research the requirements for taking the exam and the cost of certification. Most certifications require that you have a certain amount of experience in the field before you can take the exam and may require you to pay fees to take the exam. Additionally, make sure you understand what type of job roles or tasks are associated with each certification so that you can best choose which one is right for your career goals.

Related: What does a Systems Analyst do?

Top 10 Systems Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Systems Analyst Professional (CSAP)

Certified Systems Analyst Professional (CSAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze, design, and implement information systems solutions.

The CSAP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as business analysis principles, techniques, tools, and best practices. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To get the CSAP certification, you must first register with IIBA and pay a fee. After registering, you must pass the CSAP exam with a score of 70% or higher. You can take the exam at an approved testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost for taking the CSAP exam is $325 USD for members of IIBA and $450 USD for non-members.

2. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). The CBAP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of business analysis. It is intended to provide recognition for those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their business analysis practice.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to demonstrate a minimum of 7,500 hours of business analysis experience over the past 10 years, as well as 35 hours of formal business analysis education. Candidates must also pass an exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering six knowledge areas: business analysis planning and monitoring, elicitation and collaboration, requirements life cycle management, strategy analysis, requirements analysis and design definition, and solution evaluation.

It typically takes up to 12 months to prepare for the CBAP exam. This includes studying for the exam, gaining experience in the field of business analysis, and completing any necessary training or education courses.

To become certified as a CBAP, you must first apply with IIBA and pay an application fee. After your application has been approved, you will need to register for the exam with Prometric Testing Services and pay an additional fee. The cost for both fees combined is approximately $500 USD.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements, you will be awarded your Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) credential from IIBA.

3. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their understanding of the fundamental knowledge, terminology and processes of effective project management. The CAPM certification is ideal for those who are new to the field of project management or those who want to demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

To get the CAPM certification, you must first meet eligibility requirements. These include having at least 23 contact hours of formal education in project management and either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) or 1,500 hours of professional experience on a project team within five years prior to submitting your application.

Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can apply for the exam online through PMI's website. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes 3 hours to complete. You must score at least a 73% on the exam in order to pass and receive your certification.

The cost for taking the CAPM exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI. If you are not a member, it will cost $300 USD; if you are a member, it will cost $225 USD.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an information security certification offered 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 is designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program.

It takes approximately 6 months to prepare for the CISSP exam, depending on each individual's experience and background. To get certified, individuals must pass a rigorous three-hour exam consisting of 250 multiple-choice questions.

The cost of taking the CISSP exam varies based on location and other factors. In the United States, it typically costs between $699 and $1,499 USD to take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with recertification every three years.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that certifies individuals in the design and implementation of Microsoft-based IT solutions. It is intended for experienced IT professionals who specialize in designing and implementing business solutions based on Microsoft technologies. The MCSE certification requires passing exams covering topics such as networking, security, cloud computing, virtualization, storage, messaging, and identity management.

It typically takes around 6 to 12 months to get an MCSE certification depending on the individual's experience and background. To get an MCSE certification, you must pass one or more exams related to the technology you want to be certified in. Additionally, some certifications require hands-on experience with the technology you are being certified in.

The cost of getting an MCSE certification varies depending on the exam you take and how many exams you take. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD per exam plus any associated fees or taxes.

6. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer (OCPJP)

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer (OCPJP) is a certification offered by Oracle Corporation to demonstrate proficiency in Java programming. It is designed to measure the level of knowledge and skills required for developing applications using the Java Standard Edition platform.

The OCPJP certification consists of two exams: the Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer I (1Z0-808) and the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer II (1Z0-809). The first exam covers basic concepts such as object-oriented programming, language fundamentals, and data structures. The second exam focuses on more advanced topics such as concurrency, collections, generics, JDBC, and JVM internals.

It typically takes several months of preparation to pass both exams. Preparation includes studying course material from a variety of sources including books, online tutorials, and practice tests. Additionally, hands-on experience with coding projects can be beneficial in gaining a deeper understanding of the material covered in the exams.

The cost for taking both exams varies depending on location but typically ranges between $400-$500 USD. Candidates must register for each exam separately through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Once both exams have been passed successfully, candidates will receive their OCPJP certification from Oracle Corporation.

7. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification that proves a technician’s competency in installing, configuring, and troubleshooting computer hardware and software. It is the most popular IT certification in the world, with more than 1 million people having earned it since its inception.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of multiple-choice questions. To receive the certification, you must pass both exams.

It typically takes about 3 to 6 months to study for the CompTIA A+ exam depending on your experience level. You can purchase self-study materials from CompTIA or enroll in a training program at a local college or university. There are also online courses available from various vendors that can help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on which training option you choose. The exam fees are typically $219 per exam ($438 total), but discounts may be available if you buy them together or through certain vendors. Training costs vary widely depending on where you get it, but generally range from $200 to $1,000 or more.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized professional certification for project managers. It is the most important industry-recognized certification for project managers and is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

The PMP certification demonstrates that a project manager has the experience, education, and competency to lead and direct projects. It is designed to assess an individual's ability to perform in five key areas of project management: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing.

In order to become certified as a PMP, an individual must meet certain requirements set by PMI. These include having at least 4500 hours of leading and directing projects over the past 8 years or 7500 hours of leading and directing projects over the past 15 years; 35 contact hours of formal education in project management; and passing the PMP exam.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to prepare for the PMP exam depending on how much time you can devote to studying each week. The cost of taking the exam varies based on your membership status with PMI but generally ranges from $405-$555 USD.

9. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management

The ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management is a globally recognized certification program that provides an understanding of the core principles and processes of IT service management. It is designed to help organizations improve their service delivery and customer satisfaction.

The ITIL Foundation Certificate takes approximately two days to complete, depending on the format of the course chosen. The course can be taken online or in person at an accredited training provider.

To get the ITIL Foundation Certificate, you must pass an exam which is administered by PeopleCert, an international certifying body. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and has a 60-minute time limit. A passing score is 65% or higher.

The cost for the ITIL Foundation Certificate varies depending on the training provider, but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

10. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to improve the quality of products and services by reducing errors and defects. The certification typically takes about three months to complete, depending on the individual’s learning style, and requires passing a final exam.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, individuals must first attend a training program or course that covers the basics of Six Sigma. This can be done either online or in person. After completing the training, individuals must then pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider and type of course chosen. Generally, courses range from $1,000 to $3,000 USD for online courses and up to $5,000 USD for in-person courses.

Do You Really Need a Systems Analyst Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a systems analyst certificate to become a systems analyst. That said, the certificate can be beneficial if it provides specialized training in the specific areas of systems analysis that are important to your career goals and ambitions.

For example, if you aspire to become a software engineer or a data scientist, then a certificate in systems analysis can give you an edge when competing for jobs in those fields. It shows employers that you have invested time and effort into learning the skills required for success in these roles.

At the same time, it is important to remember that having a systems analyst certificate does not guarantee employment or advancement opportunities. It is merely one piece of evidence that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary for success in this field. Employers will also look at your overall experience and qualifications when evaluating job applicants.

In conclusion, although having a systems analyst certificate may help you stand out among other job candidates, it is not essential for becoming a successful systems analyst. Ultimately, it depends on your individual career goals and ambitions whether or not obtaining this type of certification is worth the investment.

Related: Systems Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Systems Analyst Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Systems Analysts?

Answer: The most common certifications available for systems analysts include Certified Systems Analyst Professional (CSAP), Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP), Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) and Certified Business Process Analyst (CBPA).

2. How do I become a certified Systems Analyst?

Answer: To become a certified systems analyst, you must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field, as well as relevant work experience in the field of systems analysis. You will also need to pass an exam administered by an accredited certification body, such as the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA).

3. What is the cost of obtaining a Systems Analyst Certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a systems analyst certification varies depending on the certification body that administers the exam. Generally, exams range from $200 to $600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with renewing or maintaining your certification.

4. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: It typically takes 3-6 months to study and prepare for the exam, depending on your prior knowledge and experience level. Once you have passed the exam and obtained your certification, your status will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified Systems Analyst?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require applicants to have at least two years of professional experience in systems analysis or related fields prior to taking the exam. Additionally, some certifying bodies may require applicants to complete specific courses or training programs in order to obtain their certification.