Top 10 Test Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a test manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that potential employers look for when hiring. A certification shows that a test manager has taken the time and effort to invest in their professional development, which can be an attractive quality for employers. It also serves as an indicator of a test manager’s ability to learn new concepts and technologies quickly. Additionally, certifications can help validate a test manager’s experience, which is especially valuable if they have not been working in the field for very long. Finally, certifications can give a test manager an edge over other applicants who may not have them.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Test Managers and discusses how they can help to advance a test manager's career.

What are Test Manager Certifications?

Test Manager Certification is a professional certification program for individuals who manage and lead software testing teams. It is designed to ensure that those in charge of software testing have the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully and efficiently develop and execute test plans, track progress, and report on results.

This certification can help individuals demonstrate their expertise in software testing processes, best practices, and principles. By becoming certified as a Test Manager, professionals will gain credibility among their peers as well as prospective employers. They will also be better equipped with the tools they need to effectively manage software testing projects. In addition, they will have access to a wider range of job opportunities due to their increased level of knowledge and experience. Furthermore, they will be better prepared to stay current with developments in the field of software testing.

Pro Tip: When considering a test manager certification, make sure to research the specific requirements and industry standards of the program you are interested in. Different certifications have different prerequisites and expectations, so it is important to understand what will be expected of you before committing to a program. Additionally, look into any continuing education or maintenance requirements that may come with the certification in order to ensure you are able to maintain your credentials over time.

Related: What does a Test Manager do?

Top 10 Test Manager Certifications

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

1. ISTQB Foundation Level Certification

ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is a certification program designed to provide a basic understanding of software testing. It is an internationally recognized qualification that provides the foundation for a career in software testing. The certification covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, and static testing techniques.

It takes approximately 40 hours of study to prepare for the ISTQB Foundation Level exam. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65%.

To get certified, candidates must first register with an accredited training provider and complete their coursework. Once they have completed their coursework, they can then book their exam with an approved examination center.

The cost of the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification varies depending on the country and training provider chosen. On average, it costs around $200-$300 USD to take the exam.

2. Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP)

Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively test software applications. The CSTP certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).

The CSTP certification is focused on testing techniques, processes, and tools used in software development. It covers topics such as test planning, design, execution, analysis, and reporting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on the ISTQB syllabus.

In order to receive the CSTP certification, candidates must pass an exam administered by an accredited testing center. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of 60 questions. Candidates must score at least 70% in order to pass the exam.

The cost of taking the CSTP exam varies depending on location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for the exam fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a testing center.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also meet certain prerequisites in order to be eligible for the CSTP certification. These include having at least three years of professional experience in software testing or related fields; having a degree or equivalent qualification in computer science or related fields; and having completed an ISTQB-accredited training course or equivalent training program.

3. ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification

ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification is a certification program that provides mobile application testers with the knowledge and skills to properly test mobile applications. The certification focuses on the fundamentals of mobile application testing, such as understanding the different types of devices, operating systems, and platforms; how to design effective test cases; and how to use various tools and techniques for testing.

The certification requires applicants to pass a two-hour exam that consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as mobile device architectures, mobile app development life cycle, mobile app security, and automation testing tools. It also includes questions related to specific mobile platforms such as iOS, Android, Windows Phone, and Blackberry.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete the certification process once you have registered for the exam. You can register online at ASTQB's website or through one of their authorized training partners. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official certificate from ASTQB confirming your certification status. This certificate is valid for three years after which time you must retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

4. HP Quality Center Certification

HP Quality Center Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that validates a professional's ability to use HP Quality Center software. It demonstrates a professional's proficiency in the use of the software and their understanding of the best practices for managing quality assurance projects.

The certification process typically takes about one week to complete, depending on the individual's experience with HP Quality Center. To obtain this certification, individuals must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as project management, defect tracking, test automation, and reporting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken at any time from anywhere with an internet connection.

To prepare for the exam, individuals should review the HP Quality Center User Guide and take practice tests available online. Additionally, there are several training courses available to help prepare for the exam. These courses are offered by both HP and third-party vendors and range in cost from $500 to $2,000 USD depending on the length of the course and its content.

Once individuals have passed the exam they will receive their official HP Quality Center Certification which is valid for two years from date of issue.

5. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Software Testing Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Software Testing Fundamentals is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s knowledge of software testing fundamentals. It covers topics such as the importance of testing, different types of tests, and test planning. The certification also provides an overview of tools and techniques used to create effective tests.

The MTA Software Testing Fundamentals exam takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The exam is administered in a proctored environment at a Pearson VUE testing center.

To get the MTA Software Testing Fundamentals certification, you must pass the associated exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale from 100-1000. The exam fee is $127 USD or its equivalent in local currency. You can purchase the voucher for the exam online or through your local Microsoft partner.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email from Microsoft confirming your certification status and providing instructions on how to access your digital certificate and transcript.

6. ISEB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing

The ISEB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing is an entry-level qualification designed to provide a basic understanding of software testing techniques and processes. It is aimed at those who are new to the software testing profession, or who wish to gain an understanding of the basics of software testing.

The course takes around two days to complete and covers topics such as test planning, test design, test execution and reporting. The course also includes practical exercises and case studies which help participants learn how to apply the techniques they have learned.

To get the ISEB Foundation Certificate in Software Testing, you must attend a training course that is approved by the British Computer Society (BCS). You can find approved courses on their website. After completing the course, you will be required to pass an exam in order to obtain your certificate.

The cost of attending an approved training course varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from £400 - £600 (GBP). The cost of taking the exam is usually included in this fee.

7. ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification is an internationally recognized certification for software testers who have a minimum of five years of experience in software testing. It is designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in the areas of test planning, test design, test execution, and defect management. The certification requires that applicants demonstrate their ability to manage complex testing projects and create effective strategies for successful software testing.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification is a three-day course that covers topics such as risk-based testing, test automation, and test process improvement. It also includes practical exercises to help participants apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass an exam to become certified.

To get the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification, you must first take the Foundation Level Exam (CTFL) and then complete the three-day course. Once you have completed both requirements successfully, you will be eligible to take the Advanced Level Test Manager Exam (CTAL).

The cost of taking the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification varies by country and region but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD including all associated fees.

8. IREB Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering

IREB Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering (CPRE) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of Requirements Engineering. It is designed to help professionals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage requirements in software development projects.

The CPRE certification consists of three levels: Foundation, Advanced, and Expert. The Foundation level focuses on the fundamentals of Requirements Engineering, while the Advanced level covers more advanced topics such as elicitation techniques, traceability, and requirements management. The Expert level covers topics such as modeling techniques, system architecture design, and software quality assurance.

It typically takes around six months to complete all three levels of the CPRE certification. To get certified, you must first pass an online exam at each level. After passing each exam, you will receive a certificate that can be used to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in Requirements Engineering.

The cost for the CPRE certification varies depending on which country you are taking it in. In most countries it costs around €950 for all three levels combined.

9. EXIN Agile Scrum Master Certification

EXIN Agile Scrum Master Certification is a professional certification that validates the knowledge and skills of professionals in the field of agile project management. The certification focuses on the principles, practices, and techniques of Scrum, an iterative and incremental agile software development framework. It is designed to help individuals gain a comprehensive understanding of how to use Scrum to deliver successful projects.

The EXIN Agile Scrum Master certification consists of two exams: EXIN Agile Foundation and EXIN Agile Scrum Master. To obtain the certification, both exams must be completed successfully.

The EXIN Agile Foundation exam covers topics such as agile project management principles, roles and responsibilities, product ownership, sprint planning and execution, retrospective meetings, and more. The EXIN Agile Scrum Master exam covers topics such as scrum master roles and responsibilities, team dynamics and collaboration, product backlogs and sprints, release planning and delivery management, stakeholder engagement and more.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exams depending on prior experience with agile project management. In order to get certified it is recommended that you have at least one year of experience working with agile teams or projects.

The cost for both exams varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-400 USD per exam.

10. PMI-ACP Agile Project Management Certification

PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to professionals who have experience in agile project management. The PMI-ACP certification recognizes an individual’s expertise in using agile practices in their projects and organizations. It is designed to help project managers, product owners, and other stakeholders understand and use agile approaches more effectively.

It takes approximately 3 months to prepare for and pass the PMI-ACP exam. To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least 2,000 hours of general project experience within the past 5 years and 1,500 hours of agile project experience within the past 3 years. You must also complete 21 contact hours of formal training in agile principles and practices.

The cost of taking the PMI-ACP exam varies depending on where you take it. In the US, it costs $435 for members of PMI or $495 for non-members. In other countries, prices may vary slightly. Additionally, there are fees associated with maintaining your certification over time.

Overall, becoming PMI-ACP certified can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of agile principles and practices and show that you are committed to staying up-to-date on best practices in project management.

Do You Really Need a Test Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a Test Manager Certificate to become a successful test manager. In fact, many experienced and successful test managers have never obtained any type of certification or formal training.

However, having a Test Manager Certificate can be beneficial in certain situations. For instance, if you are looking for a job in the software testing industry and want to demonstrate your knowledge and experience with test management, then having this certificate can help you stand out from other applicants. Additionally, if you are looking to advance your career in test management, then having a Test Manager Certificate may open up more opportunities for promotion and higher salaries.

In most cases though, it is not necessary to obtain a Test Manager Certificate in order to be successful as a test manager. It is much more important to have the right skillset and experience in order to excel at the role. This includes strong problem-solving ability, excellent communication skills, an understanding of the software development process and how it relates to testing activities, as well as the ability to manage complex projects effectively.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to get a Test Manager Certificate is up to you and will depend on your individual circumstances. If you think that obtaining this certificate would benefit your career path then it may certainly be worth considering.

Related: Test Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Test Manager Certifications

1. What is a Test Manager Certification?

Answer: A Test Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in software testing and test management. It validates the skills and knowledge required to effectively oversee the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality assurance and testing processes.

2. What are the benefits of having a Test Manager Certification?

Answer: Having a Test Manager Certification provides recognition of your expertise in software testing and test management, increases your visibility to potential employers, enhances your career prospects, and can lead to higher salaries.

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

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified will depend on the specific program you choose. Most programs require at least 40 hours of instruction, followed by an exam for certification.

4. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a Test Manager?

Answer: Generally speaking, most programs require applicants to have at least five years of experience in software testing or quality assurance roles, as well as some formal education in computer science or software engineering.

5. Are there any online courses available for becoming a certified Test Manager?

Answer: Yes, there are several online courses available for those seeking Test Manager certification. These courses provide comprehensive instruction on topics such as test design, execution management, risk analysis, defect tracking, and more.