Top 10 Test Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a test coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and skill in their field. Certification can help test coordinators stand out from other applicants, as employers may prefer to hire someone who has been certified by a recognized organization. Certified test coordinators can also access resources, such as professional development opportunities, which can help them stay on top of industry trends and further their career. Certification can also open up new job opportunities, as some employers may require certifications for certain positions. Ultimately, having a certification can give test coordinators an edge when competing for jobs and help them become more competitive in the job market.

This article reviews the top certifications for Test Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Test Coordinator Certifications?

Test Coordinator Certification is an industry recognized credential that provides an individual with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to coordinate quality assurance testing activities. This certification is aimed at helping individuals who are responsible for organizing and managing the testing process within a software development organization. It is designed to ensure that test coordinators have a comprehensive understanding of the principles and techniques related to software testing, as well as the ability to plan, design, execute and review tests.

With Test Coordinator Certification, individuals can gain a greater understanding of how to develop test plans, create appropriate test cases, manage resources, evaluate results and identify areas for improvement. This certification also helps them become more efficient in their job by providing them with the tools they need to properly monitor, track and report on all aspects of their project’s progress. By having this certification, test coordinators can demonstrate their competence in coordinating all phases of software testing from planning through execution. Additionally, it allows employers to find qualified personnel who have a proven record of success in their roles as test coordinators.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a test coordinator certification, make sure you have experience in the field and have a good understanding of the testing process. Additionally, research the certification requirements to ensure that it is the best fit for your career goals.

Related: What does a Test Coordinator do?

Top 10 Test Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Test Coordinators today.

1. Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP)

Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP) is a certification program for software testers. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and experience of professionals who are actively engaged in software testing. The CSTP certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).

The CSTP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in software testing through a combination of exams and an application review process. Applicants must pass two exams: Foundation Level and Advanced Level. The Foundation Level exam covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, static techniques, test tools, and more. The Advanced Level exam covers topics such as risk-based testing, test automation, performance testing, security testing, and more.

Applicants must also submit an application that includes their resume and a portfolio of projects they have worked on related to software testing. Once the application has been reviewed by ISTQB experts, applicants will be notified if they have been approved for the CSTP certification.

It typically takes around six months from start to finish to get the CSTP certification. This includes time for studying for the exams and preparing your application materials.

The cost of getting the CSTP certification varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD including fees for both exams and application review process.

2. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Certified Tester

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Certified Tester is a globally recognized certification program for software testers. It is designed to ensure that software testers have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job effectively. The ISTQB Certified Tester program consists of three levels: Foundation, Advanced, and Expert.

To get the ISTQB Certified Tester certification, you must first pass the Foundation level exam. This exam tests your knowledge of the fundamentals of software testing such as test design techniques, test management, and defect management. The Foundation level exam takes approximately two hours and costs around $200 USD. Once you have passed this exam, you can move on to the Advanced level exams which cover more advanced topics such as automation testing, performance testing, and security testing. These exams take approximately four hours each and cost around $400 USD each. Finally, once you have passed all three levels of exams, you can apply for the Expert level certification which requires additional experience in software testing.

Overall, it typically takes about six months to complete all three levels of exams and become an ISTQB Certified Tester. The total cost for this certification is around $1000 USD depending on where you take the exams.

3. Certified Agile Test Manager (CATM)

Certified Agile Test Manager (CATM) is a certification program designed for experienced test professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in agile testing. It is a globally recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage agile testing projects.

In order to get the CATM certification, applicants must first pass an online assessment consisting of multiple-choice questions. The assessment covers topics such as agile principles, roles and responsibilities, test design, test execution, and reporting. Once the assessment is successfully completed, applicants will be eligible to take the CATM exam.

The CATM exam is administered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). It consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 65% to pass. The exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $250 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain prerequisites in order to become certified. These include having at least three years of experience in software testing or related fields, having completed at least one agile project, and being able to demonstrate knowledge of agile methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their CATM certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

4. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a professional certification offered by the Scrum Alliance. It is designed to provide professionals with an understanding of the core principles, values, and practices of Scrum and how to apply them in their work.

To become a Certified Scrum Master, one must attend an official two-day training course led by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). The course covers the fundamentals of Scrum, including roles and responsibilities, sprint planning, product backlogs, sprint reviews, retrospectives, and more. Upon completion of the course, participants will be eligible to take the CSM exam and receive their certification.

The cost of the two-day training course varies depending on location and provider but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. The cost of the exam is included in the price of the course. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. A passing score is 74%. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CSM certification.

In addition to attending a two-day training course and passing the exam, there are other requirements for maintaining your CSM certification. These include attending at least 16 hours of continuing education courses every two years and paying an annual renewal fee of $100 USD.

5. Certified Quality Assurance Manager (CQAM)

Certified Quality Assurance Manager (CQAM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It provides an opportunity for professionals in the quality assurance field to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise. The CQAM certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in quality management principles, practices, and techniques.

The CQAM certification requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and organizational development. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of experience working in the quality assurance field and passing the CQAM exam with a score of at least 70%. Applicants must also pay a fee of $295 USD to take the exam.

Once certified, individuals can use their CQAM credentials to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in quality assurance. They may also use it to advance their career opportunities or gain access to exclusive networking events and resources from ASQ.

6. ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification is an internationally recognized qualification for those who wish to demonstrate their expertise in software testing. It is designed to help test managers and other professionals involved in software testing, such as project managers, business analysts, and software developers, to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage the testing process.

It takes approximately 30 hours of study to complete the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within 90 minutes. It costs around $400 USD for the exam fee.

In order to get certified, you must first complete the Foundation Level certification from ISTQB. This will provide you with a basic understanding of software testing principles and techniques that are required for the Advanced Level certification. After completing the Foundation Level certification, you can then register for the Advanced Level Test Manager Certification exam by visiting the official website of ISTQB (www.istqb.org). Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your exam materials and take your exam online or at an approved examination center near you.

7. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in quality engineering. It is designed to help organizations improve their products and services by ensuring that quality engineers have the skills necessary to effectively design, develop, implement, and manage quality systems.

To become certified as a CQE, you must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam is composed of multiple-choice questions on topics such as statistical analysis, quality control, reliability engineering, design of experiments, process improvement methods, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and is offered at locations around the world.

In order to be eligible for the CQE exam, you must meet certain requirements: You must have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in engineering or a related field; you must have at least eight years of work experience in one or more areas of quality assurance/control; and you must demonstrate knowledge of the principles and practices of quality engineering through professional development activities such as attending seminars or workshops.

The cost for taking the CQE exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. You can find more information about the CQE exam on ASQ's website.

8. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification for individuals who have mastered the tools and techniques of Lean Six Sigma. It is designed to recognize individuals who can apply the principles of Six Sigma to solve complex problems in any organization.

It typically takes between six months and two years to complete the requirements for the CSSBB certification. The process includes passing an exam, completing an approved training program, and submitting a project portfolio that demonstrates mastery of the Six Sigma methodology.

To get certified, you must first pass the ASQ CSSBB exam. This is a four-hour computer-based test that covers topics such as process improvement, data analysis, problem solving, design of experiments, and statistical process control. After passing this exam, you must complete an approved training program in Lean Six Sigma or attend a series of workshops offered by ASQ. Finally, you must submit a project portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge and ability to apply the principles of Lean Six Sigma in real-world situations.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on how you choose to pursue it. Taking an online course or attending workshops will require payment for tuition fees. Additionally, there is usually a fee associated with taking the ASQ CSSBB exam as well as any other applicable fees such as application fees or membership dues for ASQ.

9. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Analysis Certification

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Analysis Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of individuals who have mastered the principles of agile analysis. The certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively analyze, design, develop, and deliver solutions using agile techniques.

The IIBA Agile Analysis Certification consists of two parts: a course and an exam. The course is offered online or in-person, depending on availability. It takes approximately 16 hours to complete the course and includes topics such as agile values and principles, agile planning, customer collaboration, iterative development, continuous improvement, and more.

Once you have completed the course, you can take the exam which consists of multiple-choice questions based on the material covered in the course. The exam must be taken at an approved testing center and costs $250 USD. Once you pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your IIBA Agile Analysis Certification.

The entire process typically takes about two months from start to finish; however this may vary depending on how quickly you complete the coursework and when you are able to schedule your exam appointment.

In total, it costs $250 USD for both the course and exam fees combined in order to obtain your IIBA Agile Analysis Certification.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP®)

Project Management Professional (PMP®) is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is the most important industry-recognized certification for project managers. PMP® certifies that you have the knowledge, experience, and skills to lead and direct projects.

The PMP® exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes four hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least three years of professional project management experience and 35 hours of formal education in project management topics.

To get the PMP® certification, you must first apply online through the Project Management Institute (PMI). Once your application has been approved, you can register for the exam and pay the associated fee which is currently $555 USD for members of PMI or $405 USD for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your PMP® certification which will be valid for three years. You must then renew your certification every three years by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) during that time period. The cost of renewal varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI but typically ranges from around $150 to $300 USD per year.

Do You Really Need a Test Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. First, it is important to consider what kind of job you are looking for and if having a Test Coordinator Certificate will give you an advantage over other applicants. If you are seeking a position in which test coordination is a major part of the job, then having a certificate can be beneficial. It shows employers that you have taken the time to learn and understand the techniques and strategies necessary to successfully coordinate tests.

In addition, having a certificate can also demonstrate your commitment to improving your skills and staying up to date with the latest testing trends and best practices. The certificate may also be viewed as proof that you possess certain qualifications necessary for the job. Finally, having a certificate indicates that you are willing to go above and beyond in order to become more knowledgeable about the field of test coordination.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Test Coordinator Certificate will depend on your individual situation and career goals. If it is likely that certification would give you an edge in the competitive job market or make you more qualified for particular positions, then obtaining one may be worthwhile. However, if certification isn’t necessary for the jobs you are applying for or wouldn’t provide any additional benefits, then it may not be worth investing time and money into obtaining one at this time.

Related: Test Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Test Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Test Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Test Coordinator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in managing and coordinating software testing activities. The certification covers topics such as test planning, test execution, risk management, and defect tracking.

2. How do I become a Certified Test Coordinator?

Answer: To become a Certified Test Coordinator, you must successfully complete an approved training program and pass the corresponding exam. Training programs are available online or through accredited institutions.

3. What are the benefits of having a Test Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Having a Test Coordinator Certification demonstrates your expertise in software testing and provides confirmation to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage software testing projects effectively. It also provides recognition for your achievements in the field and can open up career opportunities in software testing management.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Test Coordinator?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as a Test Coordinator depends on the type of training program you choose and how quickly you can complete it. Most online courses can be completed within 6-12 months, while traditional classroom courses may take up to 18 months or more depending on the institution's curriculum requirements.

5. How much does it cost to become a Certified Test Coordinator?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified as a Test Coordinator will depend on the type of training program chosen; however, most programs range from $500-$3000 USD depending on the provider and duration of the coursework.