Top 11 Training Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for training developers in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the job. Certification also shows employers that a candidate is willing to invest time and money into learning new skills, which can make them stand out among other applicants. Additionally, certifications provide an objective measure of a person’s qualifications, which can be used by employers to compare potential employees. Finally, certifications can give training developers access to higher-paying jobs or positions that require specialized knowledge or experience.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Training Developers and explains how they can help to advance a training developer's career.

What are Training Developer Certifications?

Training developer certification is an official recognition of a professional's ability to design, develop, and deliver effective training programs. It is typically awarded by a professional organization or educational institution after an individual has demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to create successful training programs. This certification can help individuals stand out in the job market and open up opportunities to apply for higher-level positions. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates with the right qualifications for their training needs. With this certification, a professional can demonstrate their expertise in developing and delivering effective training programs that meet organizational objectives. This can increase their credibility with potential employers and help them stay competitive in the industry.

Pro Tip: When training for developer certification, be sure to stay organized and create a study plan. Establish clear goals and break them down into manageable tasks that you can complete over time. This will help you stay focused, motivated, and on track to achieve your certification!

Related: What does a Training Developer do?

Top 11 Training Developer Certifications

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

1. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a certification program designed to help individuals learn the fundamentals of Scrum, an Agile framework for managing complex projects. The CSM certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead successful Scrum teams and projects.

It typically takes two days to complete the CSM course, which includes lectures, interactive exercises, and a final exam. The course covers topics such as understanding the roles and responsibilities of a Scrum Master, how to facilitate team collaboration, how to plan and manage sprints, and how to track progress.

To become certified as a CSM, you must first attend a two-day Certified Scrum Master training course taught by an accredited instructor. After completing the course, you will be required to take an online exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the course. Once you pass this exam, you will receive your CSM certification from the Scrum Alliance.

The cost of attending a Certified Scrum Master training course varies depending on where it is held and who is teaching it. Generally speaking, courses range from $1,000-$2,000 USD per person.

2. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the areas of learning, performance, and technology. The CPLP is administered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly known as the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD).

The CPLP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field of learning and performance through a series of tests. Applicants must pass three exams: two computer-based tests on content knowledge and one performance-based test. In addition, applicants must also complete an ATD Capstone project that demonstrates their ability to apply their learning and performance skills in a real-world setting.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all of the requirements for the CPLP certification. It is important to note that there are prerequisites that must be met before taking any of the exams or completing the Capstone project. These include having at least three years of work experience in a learning or performance role, having completed at least 40 hours of professional development related to learning or performance topics, and having earned a minimum score on each exam.

In order to get certified as a CPLP, applicants must register with ATD and pay an application fee of $250 USD. After registering, applicants can purchase study materials from ATD's website for $350 USD per exam. Additionally, they will need to pay registration fees for each exam ($395 USD) as well as an additional fee for the Capstone project ($495 USD).

Overall, it costs approximately $1,590 USD to become certified as a CPLP.

3. Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+)

Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) is a certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of experienced trainers in the field of technical training. It is offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).

The CTT+ certification consists of two exams: one on instructional design and delivery, and one on technology-specific topics such as networking, security, or cloud computing. The exams are designed to assess a trainer's ability to create effective learning experiences, manage classroom dynamics, and apply best practices in technical training.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. To get certified, you must first pass both exams with a score of 700 or higher. You will also need to demonstrate your experience in the field by providing proof of at least three years of technical training experience.

The cost for the CTT+ certification varies depending on where you take the exam and which version you choose (standard or premium). The standard version costs $299 USD while the premium version costs $499 USD.

4. Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM)

Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to help training professionals demonstrate their knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of training management. The CPTM certification is offered by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), a global professional organization dedicated to advancing workplace learning and performance.

The CPTM certification requires successful completion of a two-day exam that covers topics such as: training design, delivery, evaluation and measurement; instructional design; project management; change management; learning technologies; and strategic planning. The exam also includes a written case study that must be completed within the allotted time frame.

In order to take the CPTM exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of experience in training or related fields. Applicants must also submit proof of their education level (bachelor’s degree or higher) and work experience. Additionally, they must pass a criminal background check before being allowed to sit for the exam.

The cost of taking the CPTM exam is $495 USD for ASTD members and $595 USD for non-members.

Once an individual has successfully passed the CPTM exam, they will receive their official certificate from ASTD within 4-6 weeks of completing the exam. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or continuing education credits.

5. Instructional Design Certificate Program (IDCP)

The Instructional Design Certificate Program (IDCP) is an online program offered by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). The program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective instructional materials. The program includes four courses: Foundations of Instructional Design, Developing Instructional Materials, Evaluating Instructional Materials, and Managing Instructional Projects.

The IDCP takes approximately 6-9 months to complete. Each course in the program consists of 10-15 hours of self-paced online learning activities that include readings, videos, quizzes, and assignments. Students have up to one year to complete the entire program.

To get the IDCP certificate, students must successfully complete all four courses and pass a final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive an official ISPI Certificate in Instructional Design.

The cost of the IDCP is $1,195 USD for ISPI members and $1,395 USD for non-members.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure (MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure (MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in designing, implementing, and managing cloud-based solutions. It demonstrates an IT professional’s ability to build a secure, resilient infrastructure for the organization’s cloud-based applications.

It typically takes around 6 to 12 months to complete the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification. To get certified, you need to pass two exams: Exam 70-473 Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions and Exam 70-475 Designing and Implementing Big Data Analytics Solutions.

The cost of the certification will vary depending on where you take the exam. The cost of each exam is around $165 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with training materials or courses needed to prepare for the exams.

7. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer II (OCPJP 8)

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer II (OCPJP 8) is an industry-recognized certification that validates a programmer’s ability to develop applications using the Java programming language. It is intended for experienced developers who have already mastered the basics of Java and want to demonstrate their advanced knowledge.

To obtain the OCPJP 8 certification, you must pass two exams: Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer I (1Z0-808) and Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer II (1Z0-809). Both exams contain multiple choice and short answer questions.

It typically takes between four to six months of study to prepare for the OCPJP 8 exams. Depending on your experience level with Java, you may need additional time to become fully prepared for the tests. The best way to prepare is by studying from official Oracle training materials such as books or online courses.

The cost of taking the OCPJP 8 exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD per exam in most countries.

8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) is a vendor-neutral certification that validates advanced-level security skills and knowledge. It is designed to demonstrate competency in enterprise security, risk management, research and analysis, and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines.

The CASP+ certification requires a minimum of five years' experience in IT administration with an emphasis on security. Candidates must also have at least three years of direct hands-on technical security experience.

To get the CASP+ certification, candidates must pass the CompTIA CASP+ exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 165 minutes. The exam covers topics such as risk management, enterprise security architecture, research and analysis, integration of computing, communications and business disciplines, incident response and recovery, cryptography, virtualization/cloud technologies and more.

The cost for the CompTIA CASP+ exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. In the United States it costs $469 USD while in Canada it costs $499 CAD.

9. Project Management Professional (PMP®)

Project Management Professional (PMP®) is a credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and respected certification for project managers. The PMP® certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and experience to successfully manage projects of any size or complexity.

How long does it take to get it?

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP® exam and obtain your certification. This includes studying for the exam, completing 35 contact hours of project management education, and submitting an application with PMI.

How to get it?

To become certified as a PMP®, you must meet certain eligibility requirements set by PMI. These include having a minimum of three years of project management experience (4500 hours leading and directing projects) within the last eight years and a minimum of 35 contact hours of formal project management education. Once you have met these requirements, you can submit an application to take the exam.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining your PMP® certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of PMI. For non-members, the cost is $555 USD for the application fee plus $405 USD for the exam fee ($960 total). For members, the cost is $405 USD for both fees ($810 total).

10. ITIL® Foundation Certification

ITIL® Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an understanding of the ITIL framework, which is the most widely accepted approach to IT service management. It provides a practical and theoretical foundation for individuals who are involved in the delivery or support of IT services.

The certification typically takes about two days to complete and can be taken online or in person. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be passed with a score of 65% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

In order to become certified, you must have completed an accredited course or self-study program that covers all aspects of ITIL® Foundation. You will also need to register for and pass the ITIL® Foundation Exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from AXELOS, which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

11. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that demonstrates an individual's expertise in designing and deploying applications on the AWS platform. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s ability to design, deploy, and maintain applications on the AWS platform.

It typically takes between two to three months of study and practice to prepare for the exam. The best way to get ready for the exam is to take a course or use online resources such as whitepapers, tutorials, and practice exams. Additionally, it is important to have hands-on experience with AWS services before taking the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150-$300 USD. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and can be taken at any authorized testing center near you.

Do You Really Need a Training Developer Certificate?

When it comes to whether or not you need a Training Developer Certificate, the answer is ultimately up to you. The certificate can be beneficial in a few different ways and may be necessary depending on the job you are applying for.

If you are looking to become a training developer, then having a certificate can give you an edge over other applicants. It shows that you have taken the time to learn the skills necessary for this type of work and that you have put in effort to become qualified for it. Having a certificate can also demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your desire to stay current with new technologies and practices. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire those with certificates because they know that these individuals have already been certified as competent in their field.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field of training development, then having a certificate may not be as important as gaining experience or developing relationships within the industry. In this case, having a certificate may not make much of a difference when it comes to getting hired or promoted.

Ultimately, if having a Training Developer Certificate is something that interests you and would help further your career goals, then it is worth considering getting one. However, if this isn't something that would benefit your career path right now, then there is no need to worry about obtaining one at this time.

Related: Training Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Training Developer Certifications

Q1. What is a Developer Certification?

A1. A Developer Certification is a credential given to individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to develop software applications or systems. It is typically awarded by a software development industry organization or specific technology vendors.

Q2. How long does it take to get a Developer Certification?

A2. The length of time required to obtain a Developer Certification depends on the type of certification and the individual's experience level. Generally, certifications require several months of preparation and study before taking an exam to receive the certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of getting a Developer Certification?

A3. Benefits include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater career mobility, improved credibility, recognition from peers, and more confidence in your abilities as a developer.

Q4. What are the requirements for obtaining a Developer Certification?

A4. Requirements vary depending on the certification program you choose but generally involve passing an exam that tests your knowledge and understanding of software development concepts and practices. You may also need to demonstrate experience in coding or other related activities prior to taking an exam for certain certifications.

Q5. Are there any online resources available for studying for Developer Certifications?

A5: Yes! There are many online resources available such as books, tutorials, practice exams, study guides, forums and more that can help you prepare for your certification exams.