Top 10 Systems Programmer Certifications

Certifications are important for systems programmers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers are looking for. Certifications show that a programmer has the technical skills necessary to work with specific types of software and hardware, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and solve problems. They also show that the programmer is up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, making him or her a valuable asset to any team. By having certifications, a systems programmer will be able to stand out from the competition in an increasingly competitive job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Systems Programmers and explains how they can contribute to a Systems Programmer's career growth.

What are Systems Programmer Certifications?

Systems programmer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of computer systems programming. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of system design, development, testing, maintenance and support. This certification can be obtained through accredited programs offered by colleges and universities, or through specialized training programs offered by employers or other organizations.

Having a systems programmer certification can be beneficial in several ways. First, it can provide job seekers with an edge over their competition when applying for IT jobs. The certification shows potential employers that the candidate has a high level of technical knowledge and skill related to system programming tasks. Additionally, it may open up opportunities for advancement within the company or even lead to higher salaries than those without such credentials. Finally, having this certification can also give individuals more confidence in their ability to perform complex tasks related to system programming and help them stay ahead of industry trends and developments.

Pro Tip: Make sure you research the certification requirements for systems programmer certification before beginning the process. Many certifications require specific technical experience and knowledge, so it’s important to understand what’s required in order to ensure you are fully prepared for the exam. Additionally, look into any continuing education or refresher courses that may be available to help you stay up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.

Related: What does a Systems Programmer do?

Top 10 Systems Programmer Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in designing, implementing, and managing the infrastructure of a Windows Server 2012 environment. This certification demonstrates expertise in areas such as identity management, system center configuration manager, virtualization, storage solutions, networking services, and server administration.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the necessary training and exams to obtain this certification. To get the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification, individuals must pass five exams: two required core exams (70-410 and 70-411) plus three elective exams from a selection of options. The cost for each exam is $150 USD.

2. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. that certifies IT professionals in the installation, configuration and management of Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems. The RHCE certification is widely recognized as one of the most sought-after certifications for Linux system administrators.

The RHCE exam consists of two parts: a hands-on lab exam and a multiple choice exam. The hands-on lab exam requires candidates to configure and manage a live RHEL system while the multiple choice portion tests knowledge of RHEL commands, configuration files, and other topics related to administering an RHEL system.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the RHCE exam depending on your experience level with Linux systems administration. Candidates should have at least 6 months of experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux before attempting the exam. Additionally, it is recommended that candidates study from official Red Hat training materials or attend an official Red Hat training course prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the RHCE exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD per attempt. Exam fees are nonrefundable and must be paid prior to scheduling an appointment for the exam.

In order to obtain the RHCE certification, candidates must pass both parts of the exam within three years of passing their first part. Upon successful completion of both parts, candidates will receive their official RHCE certification from Red Hat, Inc., which is valid for three years from date of issue.

3. CompTIA Linux+

CompTIA Linux+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who use Linux in their job roles. It covers topics such as system architecture, installation and configuration, security, maintenance, troubleshooting, scripting, and more. The certification is designed for those who are looking to demonstrate their knowledge of Linux systems administration.

To earn the CompTIA Linux+ certification, candidates must pass two exams: LX0-103 and LX0-104. Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of multiple choice questions.

The cost of the CompTIA Linux+ exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $320 USD.

In order to prepare for the exams, CompTIA recommends taking an authorized training course or self-study using resources such as books and practice tests. There are also online courses available from various providers that can help you prepare for the exams.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification that validates your skills in developing modern mobile and/or web applications using Microsoft Visual Studio and the Microsoft Azure cloud platform. This certification is intended for experienced developers who have at least three to five years of experience developing business solutions with Microsoft development tools, technologies, and services.

To get the MCSD: App Builder certification, you must pass two exams: Exam 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3, and Exam 70-486: Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers worldwide. It typically takes between 30 to 90 days to prepare for these exams depending on your prior experience.

The cost of the MCSD: App Builder certification varies by country, but it typically costs around $165 USD per exam (plus applicable taxes).

5. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is an Oracle certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the administration and management of Oracle databases. The certification is designed to validate an individual's ability to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Oracle databases.

To become an OCP, you must pass two exams: one on database architecture and one on database administration. The exam topics include installation and configuration of Oracle Database 12c, backup and recovery strategies, user security management, performance tuning, data replication technologies, and more.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to become an OCP depending on your experience level. To get started, you should first register for the exams with Oracle University. You can then purchase study materials such as books or online courses to help you prepare for the exams. Additionally, there are practice tests available to help you gauge your readiness for the actual exams.

The cost of becoming an OCP varies depending on the number of exams taken and any additional study materials purchased. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD to become certified.

6. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in configuring, implementing, and troubleshooting routed and switched networks. The CCNP Routing and Switching certification validates the ability to plan, implement, verify and troubleshoot local and wide area enterprise networks.

The CCNP Routing and Switching certification requires that candidates pass three exams: two core exams (300-101 ROUTE & 300-115 SWITCH) plus one concentration exam of your choosing (300-135 TSHOOT or 300-320 ARCH). The core exams cover topics such as routing protocols, network security, infrastructure services, infrastructure maintenance, LAN switching technologies, WAN technologies, IPv6 technologies etc. The concentration exam focuses on more specialized topics such as wireless networking or data center technologies.

In order to obtain the CCNP Routing and Switching certification you must first pass all three exams within three years of starting the program. After passing all three exams you will be awarded with the CCNP Routing and Switching certification from Cisco Systems.

The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD per exam. Therefore the total cost for obtaining the CCNP Routing and Switching certification can range from $600 - $1200 USD depending on which concentration exam you choose to take.

7. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who install, manage and troubleshoot VMware vSphere 6 environments. It is the highest level of certification offered by VMware for its data center virtualization products.

To become certified, individuals must first attend an authorized training course and then pass two exams: the VCP6-DCV Foundations Exam (2V0-620) and the VCP6-DCV Advanced Professional Exam (2V0-621). The Foundations Exam covers topics such as vSphere architecture, installation, configuration, storage, networking, security, availability and scalability. The Advanced Professional Exam focuses on advanced topics such as optimizing performance, troubleshooting, automation and disaster recovery.

The total time to obtain this certification can vary depending on the individual's experience with VMware products and their ability to study for the exams. Generally speaking it typically takes about 4 weeks from start to finish including attending an authorized training course and passing both exams.

In order to become certified you must register for an authorized training course through a VMware Authorized Training Center or a VMware Learning Partner. The cost of these courses will vary depending on the provider but generally range from $2,000 - $3,500 USD. Additionally there is a fee associated with taking each exam which is currently set at $225 USD per exam.

8. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals who design, deploy, and manage applications and services on the AWS platform. The certification is intended for IT professionals who are responsible for designing, deploying, and managing applications on the AWS platform.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of the AWS platform and its services. The exam is divided into two sections: Domain 1 (Designing Highly Available, Cost-Efficient, Fault Tolerant Systems) and Domain 2 (Deployment & Security).

It typically takes about 4-6 months to prepare for the exam depending on your level of experience with AWS. To prepare for the exam you should have hands-on experience with AWS services such as EC2, S3, VPCs, IAM roles/policies etc. You can also take online courses or attend instructor led training to get familiar with the various services offered by AWS.

The cost of taking the exam is $150 USD. You will need to register through Amazon's website in order to take the exam. Once you are registered you will be able to schedule an appointment at a testing center near you or take it online through their proctored system.

Once you pass the exam you will receive an official certificate from Amazon Web Services that will prove your proficiency in designing solutions on their cloud platform.

9. Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V)

Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s technical knowledge and skills in the area of virtualization. It provides IT professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to design, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot virtualized environments using Citrix products.

It usually takes around 4-6 months to complete all the requirements for CCP-V certification. To get this certification, you need to pass two exams: 1Z0-988: Citrix XenApp and XenDesktop 7.15 Administration exam and 1Z0-989: Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops 7 Advanced Administration exam. Both exams must be passed within 18 months of each other in order to receive the CCP-V certification.

The cost for CCP-V certification varies depending on which type of exam you take. The 1Z0-988 exam costs $200 USD while the 1Z0-989 exam costs $300 USD. Additionally, you may need to purchase additional materials such as study guides or practice tests which can add up to the total cost of getting your CCP-V certification.

10. Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Certification

Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual's expertise in designing and implementing solutions on Microsoft Azure. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their skills in the areas of cloud computing, identity management, data storage, networking, virtualization, security, and disaster recovery.

To obtain the certification, individuals must pass two exams: AZ-300 (Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies) and AZ-301 (Microsoft Azure Architect Design). Both exams are offered through Pearson VUE and cost $165 each. Depending on your experience level, it may take anywhere from one to three months to prepare for the exams.

The cost of the certification depends on your country of residence. In the United States, it costs $99 per month for a 12-month subscription to access all exam materials and practice tests. The exam fees are not included in this subscription fee.

Do You Really Need a Systems Programmer Certificate?

Systems programmers are responsible for the maintenance and development of computer systems, programming languages, operating systems, and other software components. As such, having a Systems Programmer Certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking to pursue a career in this field.

A Systems Programmer Certificate is not absolutely necessary to become a systems programmer, as many employers do not require it. However, having one can give you an edge over other candidates during the hiring process. A certificate shows that you have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and expertise in this area; it demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your dedication to continuing your education.

In addition to giving you an advantage when applying for jobs, a Systems Programmer Certificate can also provide important networking opportunities that may help you find more job opportunities in the future. For example, many schools offer courses specifically designed for those who wish to specialize in systems programming or related areas; through these courses, you can meet other professionals with similar interests and backgrounds who may be able to help further your career prospects.

Overall, while a Systems Programmer Certificate is not required by all employers, it can certainly be beneficial if you’re considering a career in this field. The certificate shows potential employers that you have dedicated yourself to gaining the necessary knowledge and skills for success as a systems programmer; it gives them confidence that you will be able to handle their system programming needs effectively and efficiently. Additionally, it provides valuable networking opportunities which could lead to more job opportunities down the line.

Related: Systems Programmer Resume Examples

FAQs About Systems Programmer Certifications

1. What is a Systems Programmer Certification?

Answer: A Systems Programmer Certification is a professional certification to demonstrate expertise in systems programming, which is the process of writing and maintaining the code that runs on computer systems.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Systems Programmer Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Systems Programmer Certification provides an individual with increased job opportunities, greater earning potential, and recognition as an expert in their field. It also allows for career advancement and access to new technologies.

3. How do I become certified as a Systems Programmer?

Answer: To become certified as a Systems Programmer, you must first complete a training program or educational degree in systems programming. After completing this program, you can then take an exam to earn your certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Systems Programmer?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require individuals to have some prior experience and knowledge of systems programming before taking the exam. This may include completing relevant coursework or having related work experience in computer science or software engineering.

5. How long does it take to become certified as a Systems Programmer?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Systems Programmer depends on your prior experience and knowledge in the field, as well as how much time you dedicate to studying for the certification exam. Generally speaking, it should take between six months and one year to complete all the necessary steps for certification.