Top 10 Technology Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for technology managers in the job market because they provide a signal to potential employers that the individual has met certain standards and is knowledgeable in the field. Certifications demonstrate that the individual has a basic understanding of the technologies, processes, and best practices related to their field, as well as a commitment to ongoing professional development. This knowledge can be invaluable for employers who are looking for qualified and experienced professionals to help manage their technology needs. Additionally, certifications may also provide access to industry resources or discounts on products or services from vendors or suppliers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Technology Managers and explains how they can help to enhance a technology manager's career.

What are Technology Manager Certifications?

Technology manager certification is a credential offered by various organizations, such as the Association of Technology Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in managing technology-based projects. The certification process typically includes an examination that tests knowledge in areas such as project management, technology implementation, budgeting, and risk management.

Having a technology manager certification can help professionals stand out from their peers in the job market and demonstrate their expertise to potential employers. Professionals with this credential may be more attractive to employers due to their understanding of the complexities involved in managing technology projects. Additionally, having a technology manager certification may open up opportunities for career advancement within an organization or allow for the individual to pursue higher-level positions in other organizations.

This certification may also provide access to resources such as professional networks and conferences that can help individuals stay on top of industry trends and best practices. Additionally, many organizations offer continuing education credits for those with a technology manager certification which can help them stay abreast of new developments in the field. Finally, having this credential may also make it easier for individuals to obtain additional certifications or credentials related to specific technologies or applications.

Pro Tip: When considering technology manager certification, look for one that covers the latest trends in technology management. This will ensure that you are up-to-date on the most current practices and strategies to help you lead your team efficiently and effectively.

Related: What does a Technology Manager do?

Top 10 Technology Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Technology Managers today.

1. Certified Technology Manager (CTM)

Certified Technology Manager (CTM) is a professional certification program offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). It is designed to recognize individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage information technology (IT) projects. The CTM certification is intended for IT professionals who are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing IT projects.

The CTM certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam tests your knowledge of IT management principles, processes, and best practices. The hands-on project requires you to demonstrate your ability to plan, implement, and manage an IT project from start to finish.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CTM certification program. To get started, you must first register for the program through ISC2’s website. Once registered, you will be given access to the online exam and have 90 days to complete it. After passing the online exam, you will be eligible to take the hands-on project which must be completed within a year of registering for the program.

The cost of the CTM certification program varies based on where you live but generally ranges from $1,000 - $3,000 USD. This includes registration fees as well as any additional costs associated with taking the online exam or completing the hands-on project.

2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification in the field of information security. It is a globally accepted standard of achievement that recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in designing, implementing, managing, and maintaining a best-in-class cybersecurity program. The CISSP credential is offered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the information security profession.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 6 hours. To become certified, you must pass this exam and have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains outlined by ISC2.

To get your CISSP certification, you will need to register for the exam with ISC2 and pay the associated fee. The cost for the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $699 to $1,199 USD. After passing the exam, you will also need to pay an annual maintenance fee of $125 USD to maintain your certification status.

In total, it can take up to 12 months or longer to complete all requirements for becoming a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

3. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and requires applicants to demonstrate their experience, education, and competency in leading and directing projects.

The PMP exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or the global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

To get the PMP certification, you must first apply for it through PMI's website. You will then need to take the PMP Exam which costs $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members. After passing the exam, you will receive your official PMP Certification from PMI.

The cost to become certified as a Project Management Professional varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. For members, it costs $405 for the exam fee plus any additional fees associated with studying materials or courses. For non-members, it costs $555 plus any additional fees associated with studying materials or courses.

4. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to teach the fundamentals of Scrum, an agile project management framework. The certification is offered by the Scrum Alliance and is designed to help individuals become more effective in their roles as Scrum Masters. It can be used to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and commitment to working with teams using the Scrum framework.

The CSM certification program typically takes two days to complete and includes instruction on the principles of Scrum, how it works, and how it can be used in practice. Participants must also pass a multiple-choice exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as a CSM, you must first attend a Certified Scrum Master training course from an accredited provider. These courses are typically two days long and cost between $500-$1000 depending on the provider. After completing the course, you will need to take and pass an online exam in order to receive your certification.

Once certified, you will need to renew your certification every two years by taking part in continuing education activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to Scrum or Agile project management. Renewal fees vary depending on your provider but typically range from $100-$200 per year.

5. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a certification program from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). It is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect cloud-based systems and data. The CCSP credential is recognized as a standard of excellence in cloud security.

The CCSP exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in information technology, including three years of information security and one year in one or more of the six domains covered by the CCSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).

To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an online examination that covers topics such as cloud computing architecture, cloud data security, identity and access management, risk management, security operations, and software development security.

The cost for the CCSP certification exam is $599 USD.

6. Certified Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)

Certified Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) is a set of best practices for IT service management. It provides a framework for organizations to manage their IT services and processes more effectively.

ITIL is composed of five core books that cover the entire IT service lifecycle, from service strategy to continual service improvement. The books are: Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continual Service Improvement.

It typically takes about 6-12 months of study and preparation to pass the ITIL certification exam. To get certified in ITIL, you must complete an accredited training course and then pass the associated exam. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your training provider but can range from $200-$500 USD.

7. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification that validates an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing IT infrastructure solutions using Microsoft products. It is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to use the latest Microsoft technologies to manage and deliver solutions across multiple technologies.

It typically takes about 6 months of preparation and study to obtain the MCSE certification. To get certified, you must pass one or more exams that test your knowledge of Windows Server, Azure, Office 365, SharePoint Server, Exchange Server, SQL Server and other related technologies. The cost of the exam varies depending on the type of exam you take and how many exams you need to pass in order to become certified. Generally speaking, it will cost around $150-$200 per exam.

8. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification for entry-level computer technicians. It is designed to demonstrate a technician’s knowledge and skills in areas such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, troubleshooting and customer service. CompTIA A+ certification is considered the foundation of IT careers and is a prerequisite for many higher-level certifications.

The CompTIA A+ exam consists of two separate tests: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of 90 multiple choice questions. The Core 1 exam covers topics such as hardware, networking, mobile devices and troubleshooting; while the Core 2 exam focuses on topics such as operating systems, security and customer service.

In order to get CompTIA A+ certified, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 750 on each test. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE or Certiport testing center worldwide. The cost of the exams varies depending on your location but typically range from $200-$300 USD per exam.

Once you have passed both exams with a score of at least 750 on each test, you will be awarded your CompTIA A+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years you must recertify by taking either the 220-1001 or 220-1002 exam again in order to maintain your certification status.

9. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program that is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of network professionals in the field of routing, switching, and other technologies related to Cisco products. The CCNA certification is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry.

It typically takes around three months to complete the CCNA certification process. To get started, you will need to pass two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of multiple-choice questions. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your CCNA certification.

The cost for taking the CCNA exam varies depending on where you take it, but it usually costs around $300 USD per exam. In addition to this fee, some training providers may charge additional fees for their courses or materials.

Overall, getting a CCNA certification can be a great way to advance your career in networking technology and can open up many opportunities in the IT industry.

10. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program offered by Oracle that recognizes and validates the skills of database administrators who have demonstrated proficiency in administering Oracle databases. The OCP certification is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry, as it is recognized and respected by employers worldwide.

The OCP certification requires passing two exams: 1Z0-062 Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration, and 1Z0-063 Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration. Candidates must also have at least six months of experience working with Oracle databases in order to be eligible for the certification.

It typically takes around three to four months to prepare for the OCP exam, depending on the individual’s level of experience with Oracle databases. To prepare for the exam, candidates should review online course materials or attend an instructor-led training course. Additionally, there are numerous practice tests available online to help candidates gauge their knowledge and identify areas that need further study.

The cost of taking the OCP exam varies depending on which country you take it in; however, it typically costs between $200-$300 USD per exam. In addition to this cost, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or purchasing study materials.

Do You Really Need a Technology Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and objectives. If you are looking to break into the technology management field, a Technology Manager Certificate could be beneficial in providing you with the necessary skills and knowledge to make yourself a more attractive candidate for potential employers. However, it is important to note that having a certificate does not guarantee success or job placement – it only serves as an indication of your level of expertise in the field.

For those already working in technology management, obtaining a Technology Manager Certificate can also help further their career. Certifications demonstrate mastery of certain topics such as project management, data analysis, software engineering, network administration and more. They can also serve as proof of your commitment to continuous learning and growth in the field.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Technology Manager Certificate is up to you. It may provide an edge when applying for positions or seeking promotions within your current organization, but there are no guarantees. If you decide that obtaining one is right for you, make sure that the program you select aligns with your personal career goals and offers courses relevant to today’s industry needs.

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FAQs About Technology Manager Certifications

1. What is a Technology Manager Certification?

Answer: A Technology Manager Certification is an accredited certification program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage various aspects of technology-related projects, such as software development, data management, network security, and IT infrastructure.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Technology Manager Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Technology Manager Certification can provide professionals with increased job opportunities, improved career progression prospects, higher salaries, and increased credibility in their field. It also allows them to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Technology Manager?

Answer: The amount of time needed to get certified as a Technology Manager will vary depending on the specific program chosen and the individual’s prior experience and knowledge. Generally speaking, most programs require anywhere from six months to two years of study before certification can be obtained.

4. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as a Technology Manager?

Answer: Depending on the specific certification program chosen, there may be certain educational requirements or prerequisites needed in order to become a certified Technology Manager. Some programs may require prior experience in IT or related fields while others may require formal education in computer science or programming languages.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Technology Manager?

Answer: The cost of getting certified as a Technology Manager will vary depending on the specific program chosen and any additional courses or materials required for certification. Generally speaking, most programs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for tuition and associated fees.