Top 10 Test Developer Certifications

Certifications can be a valuable asset in the job market for test developers. Employers often view certifications as an indication of a candidate’s knowledge and skills in the field, which can make them more likely to hire that candidate. Furthermore, certifications can make it easier for employers to assess candidates since they provide a structured way of evaluating skills. Certifications also demonstrate that the test developer is committed to staying current with new technologies and trends in the industry, which is an important trait for employers. Additionally, having certifications can help test developers stand out from other applicants who may not have them.

This article reviews top certifications for Test Developers and explains how they can benefit a test developer's career.

What are Test Developer Certifications?

Test developer certification is a type of professional certification for software testers and quality assurance professionals. It is designed to recognize the specialized knowledge and skills required to develop effective tests for software applications. The certification covers topics such as designing test cases, implementing test automation, and analyzing test results. It also provides guidance on best practices for developing tests that are both efficient and effective.

Having a test developer certification can help professionals demonstrate their expertise in this field to employers and clients, as well as providing them with an edge when seeking job opportunities. The certification also serves as proof that the individual has received formal training in the field of software testing, which can be highly beneficial when competing against other job seekers with similar qualifications. Additionally, having a test developer certification can give testers an advantage when it comes to negotiating salaries or gaining promotions within their organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a test developer certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the certifying body. Certifications vary in their standards and it is important to know what you are signing up for before committing to a program.

Related: What does a Test Developer do?

Top 10 Test Developer Certifications

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

1. ISTQB Certified Tester

ISTQB Certified Tester is an internationally recognized certification for software testers and quality assurance professionals. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and techniques of software testing, as well as an appreciation of the role of testing in the development process. The certification is available at three levels: Foundation, Advanced and Expert.

It typically takes around four months to complete all three levels of ISTQB Certification. To get certified, you must first pass the Foundation Level exam which covers basic concepts such as test design techniques, test management, static testing and more. After passing this exam, you can then move on to the Advanced Level exams which cover topics such as test automation and risk-based testing. Finally, you can take the Expert Level exam which covers topics such as test optimization and performance testing.

The cost for taking the ISTQB Certification exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam. Additionally, most organizations require that you have a minimum number of years' experience in software testing before taking any level of the exam so it's important to check with your employer or training provider for specific requirements.

2. ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification

ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification is a certification program offered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB). It is designed to help software testers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively test mobile applications. The certification covers topics such as mobile application development, testing methodologies, and best practices for testing mobile applications.

The ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete. To get certified, you must pass an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions about mobile application testing. The exam costs $150 USD and can be taken at any time from anywhere in the world.

To prepare for the exam, ASTQB offers a variety of study materials including books, videos, webinars, and practice exams. Additionally, they offer a free online course that covers all of the topics covered on the exam. This course is self-paced and can be completed in approximately 8 hours.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certificate, it is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

3. HP Certified Professional Software Quality Assurance (HP CQS-SA)

HP Certified Professional Software Quality Assurance (HP CQS-SA) is an industry-recognized certification program from HP that validates the skills and knowledge of software quality assurance professionals. It is designed to help organizations ensure that their software meets customer expectations and industry standards.

The HP CQS-SA certification requires a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as software quality assurance principles, processes, and tools; test planning and execution; defect management; test automation; and performance testing. The exam is available in multiple languages and can be taken online or in-person at an authorized HP testing center.

To get the HP CQS-SA certification, you must first register for the exam with HP. Once you have registered, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for the exam. You will also need to pay a fee for the exam, which varies depending on your country of residence. The cost of the exam ranges from $250 to $500 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official HP CQS-SA certificate within 4 weeks. This certificate will be valid for 2 years after which time it must be renewed by taking another comprehensive exam.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Testing and Optimizing Applications

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Testing and Optimizing Applications is a certification for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in testing and optimizing applications. This certification is designed to validate the skills needed to test, troubleshoot, and optimize applications on the Microsoft platform.

It typically takes about three months of study and preparation in order to pass the exam and earn this certification. The exam itself consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on real-world scenarios. It covers topics such as application architecture, debugging techniques, performance optimization, security best practices, and more.

In order to get the MCSE: Testing and Optimizing Applications certification, you must first pass the associated exam. The exam costs $165 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center. You can also purchase an online practice test from Microsoft or other third-party vendors to help you prepare for the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your MCSE: Testing and Optimizing Applications certificate from Microsoft. This certificate will serve as proof of your expertise in this area and will open up new job opportunities for you in the IT field.

5. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer (OCPJP) is an industry-recognized certification for Java developers. It is designed to validate a programmer’s knowledge and experience in developing applications using the Java Standard Edition (SE) platform. The OCPJP certification is offered by Oracle Corporation and is administered by Pearson VUE.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the OCPJP exam, depending on your existing knowledge of Java SE programming and the amount of time you are able to dedicate to studying. You should be familiar with topics such as object-oriented programming, collections, generics, threading, concurrency, I/O streams, networking and JDBC.

To get certified as an OCPJP, you must pass the Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer exam (1Z0-815). This exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 150 minutes. The cost of this exam varies according to your country but generally ranges from $245 USD to $395 USD.

You can register for the exam online through Pearson VUE or via phone or email. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official Oracle Certificate verifying your achievement as an Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) Java SE Programmer.

6. ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification

The ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of agile testers. It is an extension of the ISTQB Foundation Level certification and is intended for software testers who are already familiar with agile testing principles and practices.

It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam fee is €150 (or equivalent in other currencies).

In order to get the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification, you must first pass the ISTQB Foundation Level Exam. After passing the Foundation Level Exam, you can then take the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Exam. You must also have at least 6 months of experience working with agile teams in order to qualify for this certification.

The cost of the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification varies depending on your country or region; however, it typically costs around €200 (or equivalent in other currencies).

7. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Test Manager Certification

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Test Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in software testing. It is designed to help professionals improve their skills and advance their careers in the software testing field.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification consists of two exams: the Foundation Level exam and the Advanced Level exam. The Foundation Level exam covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, test automation, and risk-based testing. The Advanced Level exam focuses on topics such as advanced test design techniques, advanced test management, advanced test automation, and advanced risk-based testing.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification typically takes around 18 months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. To get certified, individuals must first pass the Foundation Level exam with a minimum score of 65%. Once they have passed this exam, they can then take the Advanced Level exam.

To prepare for these exams, individuals can take courses offered by ISTQB or self-study using books or online resources. Additionally, there are many practice tests available that can help individuals prepare for their exams.

The cost of taking the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification exams varies depending on location and currency exchange rates but typically ranges from $250-$500 USD per exam.

8. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification is a professional certification for software testers. It is an advanced level of the ISTQB Foundation Level certification and provides recognition of the knowledge and skills required to be a successful technical test analyst.

To get the ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification, you must first have passed the ISTQB Foundation Level exam. This exam covers topics such as testing fundamentals, test design techniques, static techniques, test management, tool support for testing, and defect management. After passing this exam, you can then take the Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Exam which tests your knowledge in areas such as risk-based testing, performance testing, security testing, test automation strategies and tools, and more.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Exam takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and consists of 40 multiple choice questions. To pass the exam you must score at least 65% or higher. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your country but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

9. EXIN Agile Scrum Master Certification

EXIN Agile Scrum Master Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead agile projects and teams. The certification is based on the Scrum framework, which is an iterative and incremental approach to project management. The program consists of two parts: an online learning module and an exam.

The online learning module includes topics such as agile principles, scrum processes, roles in scrum teams, product backlogs, sprint planning meetings, daily stand-ups, sprint reviews, retrospectives, and more. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete the online course.

The exam is a 2-hour multiple choice test that assesses your understanding of the concepts covered in the online course. It costs €150 (approx. $175 USD) to take the exam.

To get certified as an EXIN Agile Scrum Master you must pass the exam with a minimum score of 65%. Upon successful completion of both parts of the program you will receive your EXIN Agile Scrum Master Certification.

10. EXIN Cloud Computing Foundation Certification

EXIN Cloud Computing Foundation Certification is a certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand, develop, and manage cloud computing solutions. This certification is suitable for IT professionals who are looking to gain a better understanding of cloud computing technologies and how they can be used in the enterprise.

The EXIN Cloud Computing Foundation Certification consists of two exams: EXIN Cloud Computing Foundation (EX0-116) and EXIN Cloud Computing Advanced (EX0-117). Both exams must be taken and passed in order to receive the certification. The duration of each exam is 90 minutes.

In order to get certified, applicants must register with EXIN’s website, purchase an exam voucher, and schedule their exam at one of the available test centers. The cost of the two exams is €200 (approx. US$220).

Once both exams have been successfully completed, applicants will receive their certificate from EXIN within four weeks.

Do You Really Need a Test Developer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and aspirations. For someone looking to pursue a career in software testing, obtaining a test developer certificate could be beneficial. This certification shows employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to develop tests for software applications. It may also help open doors to higher-level positions and provide access to better job opportunities.

For someone who is already working in the software testing industry, a test developer certificate may not be necessary. If one is already knowledgeable about best practices and procedures for software testing, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary. However, if there are specific skills that need improvement or more in-depth knowledge of certain topics is needed, then investing in a test developer certificate could be beneficial.

Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not they need a test developer certificate. In some cases, it can be helpful if it provides access to new job opportunities or helps fill any skill gaps that exist. On the other hand, for those who already have experience in the field, investing in additional certifications may not be necessary.

Related: Test Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Test Developer Certifications

1. What are the requirements for Test Developer Certifications?

Answer: The requirements for Test Developer Certifications vary depending on the provider, but typically include experience in software testing and development, knowledge of various programming languages, and completion of an approved training program.

2. How long does it take to complete a Test Developer Certification?

Answer: Depending on the provider, certification programs may take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete.

3. Is there an exam associated with Test Developer Certifications?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require candidates to pass a written or practical exam in order to receive their certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for taking a Test Developer Certification program?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require applicants to have prior experience in software testing and development, as well as knowledge of one or more programming languages.

5. What is the cost of a Test Developer Certification?

Answer: The cost of a Test Developer Certification varies depending on the provider, but can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.