Top 11 VB.NET Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for a VB.NET developer in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the candidate has the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively complete tasks related to VB.NET development. They also provide evidence of an individual's commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends within the field. Additionally, certifications can help a VB.NET developer stand out from other applicants in a competitive job market, as employers often prefer candidates who have some form of validated expertise in their chosen field.

This article reviews some of the best certifications for VB.NET Developers and explains how they can help propel a developer's career.

What are VB.NET Developer Certifications?

VB.NET Developer Certification is a professional certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge of the Visual Basic .NET language and related technologies. The certification covers topics such as VB.NET syntax, object-oriented programming, building Windows Forms applications, ADO.NET and XML web services, debugging and exception handling, developing distributed applications using Microsoft .NET Remoting, and using ASP.NET to create web applications.

By obtaining this certification, IT professionals can demonstrate that they have the skills needed to develop successful VB.NET applications. This can be beneficial for those looking for new job opportunities or seeking promotions within their current organization. It also serves as evidence of an individual's commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies in order to remain competitive in the job market. Companies may also look favorably upon potential employees who possess this certification because it demonstrates that they have the necessary skills to build robust and reliable software solutions with VB.NET

Pro Tip: Make sure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of VB.NET before taking any certification exams. Having a firm grasp on the basics will make it much easier to pass the exam and ensure that you have all the necessary skills to be an effective VB.NET developer.

Related: What does a VB.NET Developer do?

Top 11 VB.NET Developer Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to build modern mobile and/or web applications using Microsoft Visual Studio, Azure, and the Microsoft .NET Framework. The MCSD: App Builder certification requires that candidates demonstrate their expertise in developing Windows Store apps, Windows Phone apps, ASP.NET web applications, Azure solutions, or Office 365 solutions using Visual Studio.

To earn this certification, you must pass three exams: Exam 70-480 (Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3), Exam 70-486 (Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications), and Exam 70-487 (Developing Windows Azure and Web Services). Depending on your experience level and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying for the exams, it may take anywhere from one month to several months to prepare for all three exams.

The cost of the MCSD: App Builder certification depends on the country you live in; however, typically each exam costs around $150 USD. In total, you can expect to pay approximately $450 USD for all three exams.

2. Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): Enterprise Application Developer

Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD): Enterprise Application Developer is a certification program designed to demonstrate the expertise of developers in building applications on the Microsoft platform. It is an intermediate-level credential that validates the skills and knowledge required to develop and maintain enterprise applications using Microsoft Visual Studio and the .NET Framework.

To get this certification, you must pass three exams: Exam 70-515, TS: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4; Exam 70-516, TS: Accessing Data with Microsoft .NET Framework 4; and Exam 70-519, PRO: Designing and Developing Web Applications Using Microsoft .NET Framework 4.

The cost for each exam varies depending on your location. In the US, it costs $165 per exam. The total cost for all three exams is $495.

It typically takes 6–12 months to prepare for these exams and obtain the MCPD: Enterprise Application Developer certification. You can prepare by taking instructor-led courses or self-study courses. Additionally, there are practice tests available online that you can use to test your knowledge before taking the actual exams.

3. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): .NET Framework 4 Web Applications

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): .NET Framework 4 Web Applications is a certification that demonstrates the ability to develop and maintain web applications using Microsoft's .NET Framework 4. It is designed for experienced developers who want to demonstrate their skills in developing and maintaining web applications using the .NET Framework 4.

The MCTS: .NET Framework 4 Web Applications certification requires passing one exam, Exam 70-515: TS: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4. This exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of developing and deploying web applications using ASP.NET, HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, AJAX, jQuery, Windows Communication Foundation (WCF), Windows Workflow Foundation (WF), LINQ and Entity Framework.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for this exam. Candidates should have at least two years of experience developing web applications with the .NET framework before attempting the exam.

The cost of taking the Exam 70-515: TS: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4 varies depending on location but typically costs around $150 USD.

4. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Windows Communication Foundation Development with Visual Studio 2010

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Windows Communication Foundation Development with Visual Studio 2010 is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in developing distributed applications using Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) and Visual Studio 2010. It is designed to test the knowledge of a developer in the areas of service-oriented architecture, WCF contracts, hosting, security, debugging, deployment, and interoperability.

It typically takes around 6 months to prepare for the MCTS: Windows Communication Foundation Development with Visual Studio 2010 exam. To get started, individuals should familiarize themselves with the topics covered in the exam by reviewing course materials from Microsoft Learning or other sources. After gaining a solid understanding of the material, it is recommended that individuals use practice tests to assess their readiness for the exam.

The cost of taking the MCTS: Windows Communication Foundation Development with Visual Studio 2010 exam varies depending on where it is taken. The cost can range from $125 to $150 USD per attempt. The exam must be taken at a Pearson VUE testing center or through an online proctored environment.

To become certified as an MCTS: Windows Communication Foundation Development with Visual Studio 2010 specialist, individuals must pass Exam 70-513 which covers topics related to developing distributed applications using WCF and Visual Studio 2010. Upon passing this exam, individuals will receive their certification and be able to demonstrate their knowledge of this technology stack to potential employers and clients.

5. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Windows Forms Development with Visual Studio 2010

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Windows Forms Development with Visual Studio 2010 is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to develop applications using the Windows Forms platform and Visual Studio 2010. The certification requires knowledge of the .NET Framework, C#, Windows Forms, and Visual Studio 2010.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for this certification exam. To get started, you will need to have a good understanding of the .NET Framework, C# programming language, and Visual Studio 2010. You can find many online courses or books to help you learn these topics. Additionally, Microsoft offers official training materials for this certification exam.

To take the MCTS: Windows Forms Development with Visual Studio 2010 exam, you will need to register on the Microsoft website and pay a fee of $150 USD. Once you have registered and paid the fee, you will be given access to an online practice test which will help you prepare for the actual exam. Once you are ready to take the exam, you will be required to book an appointment at a local testing center.

The MCTS: Windows Forms Development with Visual Studio 2010 exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. To pass the exam, you must score at least 700 out of 1000 points. After passing the exam, your name will be added to Microsoft's database as a certified technology specialist and your certificate will be sent in 4-6 weeks.

6. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Accessing Data with Visual Studio 2010

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS): Accessing Data with Visual Studio 2010 is a certification that validates an individual's ability to develop data-driven applications using Microsoft Visual Studio 2010. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the development of data-driven applications using Microsoft Visual Studio 2010, including working with relational databases and XML files, creating queries, and developing custom components.

The MCTS: Accessing Data with Visual Studio 2010 certification requires passing two exams: Exam 70-515: TS: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4 and Exam 70-516: TS: Accessing Data with Microsoft .NET Framework 4. The exams are available through Prometric testing centers worldwide.

It typically takes between 3 to 6 months to prepare for the MCTS: Accessing Data with Visual Studio 2010 certification, depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. To prepare for the exams, individuals should have a good understanding of database design principles, SQL syntax, ADO.NET programming techniques, LINQ fundamentals, XML processing techniques, and Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) concepts. Additionally, hands-on experience building data-driven applications using Visual Studio 2010 is recommended.

The cost of taking the MCTS: Accessing Data with Visual Studio 2010 exams varies by country but typically ranges from $100 - $150 USD per exam.

7. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Database Administrator 2008

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Database Administrator 2008 is a certification program that validates an individual’s ability to administer and maintain Microsoft SQL Server 2008 databases. This certification is designed for IT professionals who have at least two years of experience in working with SQL Server 2008.

To get the MCITP: Database Administrator 2008 certification, you must pass three exams: Exam 70-432, Exam 70-433, and Exam 70-450. The first two exams cover topics such as database design, installation and configuration, data storage and retrieval, and administration. The third exam focuses on advanced topics such as security, replication, performance tuning, high availability, and troubleshooting.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. However, the average cost of all three exams is around $750 USD. It usually takes about four to six months to prepare for all three exams and obtain the MCITP: Database Administrator 2008 certification.

To prepare for these exams, you can take online courses or attend instructor-led classes offered by Microsoft or other training providers. You can also use practice tests to help you understand the material better and assess your readiness for the actual exams.

8. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP): Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to manage and maintain a Windows Server 2008 enterprise environment. This certification requires the successful completion of five exams: four Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) exams and one Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) exam.

It typically takes around two to three months to prepare for the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 certification, depending on your experience level and the amount of time you are able to dedicate to studying. The best way to prepare for the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 certification is by taking practice tests, reading up on relevant topics, and enrolling in a training program.

The cost of obtaining the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator on Windows Server 2008 certification depends on where you choose to take the tests. Generally speaking, each MCTS exam costs $150 and each MCP exam costs $125. Therefore, if you take all five exams at once, it would cost approximately $875.

9. Brainbench VB.NET Developer Certification

Brainbench VB.NET Developer Certification is an online certification program that tests a developer's knowledge of the Visual Basic .NET programming language and related technologies. It is designed to assess the skills of experienced developers who are looking to demonstrate their expertise in VB.NET development.

The Brainbench VB.NET Developer Certification consists of a series of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as object-oriented programming, data types, classes and objects, debugging, error handling, database access, web services, and more. The test takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and requires a score of at least 70% for successful completion.

To get the Brainbench VB.NET Developer Certification, you will need to register for an account on the Brainbench website and then purchase a voucher for the exam from the website or from one of Brainbench's authorized resellers. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD. Once you have purchased the voucher, you can schedule your exam at any time within 12 months from purchase date.

Once you have successfully completed the exam with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your certification via email within 3-5 business days. Your certification will include your name, score achieved on the exam, and date of completion.

10. Zend VB.NET Certification

Zend VB.NET Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the development of applications using the Microsoft Visual Basic .NET programming language and the Zend Framework. It is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in developing, deploying, and maintaining web-based applications using the Zend Framework and Visual Basic .NET.

The certification exam takes approximately three hours to complete, and consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as: object-oriented programming concepts, database design principles, application architecture best practices, working with web services, debugging techniques and more. The exam is administered online through Pearson VUE testing centers.

The cost for the Zend VB.NET Certification exam is $200 USD per attempt. Candidates can register for the exam by visiting the Pearson VUE website or calling 800-274-3926. After registering for the exam, candidates must wait 48 hours before they can take it.

In order to receive their certification credential after passing the exam, candidates must pay an additional fee of $50 USD to cover administrative costs associated with issuing certificates. Once this fee has been paid, candidates will receive their certificate via email within 4-6 weeks from when they passed the exam.

11. Oracle VB.NET Certification

Oracle VB.NET Certification is a certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate expertise in developing applications using the Visual Basic .NET programming language. It is designed for experienced Visual Basic developers who want to validate their skills and knowledge of the language.

The Oracle VB.NET Certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions, and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as data types, classes, objects, collections, operators, and more. To get certified, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get Oracle VB.NET Certification, you will need to register for an account on the Oracle website and purchase an exam voucher from PearsonVUE or Prometric (the two authorized testing centers). The cost of the voucher varies depending on your country/region but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. After purchasing the voucher, you can schedule your exam at any authorized testing center near you.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded an Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) credential in Visual Basic .NET Programming Language that is valid for three years from the date of certification.

Do You Really Need a VB.NET Developer Certificate?

No, you do not need a VB.NET developer certificate in order to become a successful VB.NET programmer. Although having a certification may give you an edge in the job market, it is not essential for achieving success as a VB.NET programmer.

The most important factor in becoming a great VB.NET programmer is to have strong technical knowledge and experience with the language and its related technologies. You can gain this knowledge and experience through self-study and practice, attending online or on-site courses, or completing tutorials or other resources available online. Additionally, working on personal projects that challenge your skillset and allow you to explore different aspects of the language will help you develop your abilities further.

Having a certification may be beneficial when looking for jobs as it can demonstrate your commitment to learning the language and shows potential employers that you are serious about developing your skillset further. However, if you don’t have the time or money to pursue certification, employers will still value your practical experience with the language over any certificate or diploma.

In conclusion, while having a VB.NET developer certificate may be beneficial when applying for jobs, it is not essential for achieving success as a VB.NET programmer; what really matters is having strong technical knowledge and experience with the language itself as well as its related technologies and frameworks.

Related: VB.NET Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About VB.NET Developer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for VB.NET developers?

Answer: Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) for .NET, Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) for .NET, and Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) for .NET are all valid certifications available to VB.NET developers.

2. How do I become certified in VB.NET development?

Answer: To become certified in VB.NET development, you must successfully complete a series of exams related to the technology. These exams are offered through Microsoft or third-party certification providers such as Prometric or Certiport.

3. How long is a VB.NET developer certification valid?

Answer: Generally, certifications are valid for three years from the date of completion, after which they must be renewed by taking additional exams related to the technology.

4. What benefits do I get from becoming certified in VB.NET?

Answer: Becoming certified in VB.NET can open up job opportunities that require specific knowledge and experience with the technology, as well as provide recognition from employers that you have achieved a certain level of expertise with it. Additionally, having a certification can make you more competitive in the job market and increase your earning potential over time due to increased knowledge and experience with the technology itself.

5. Are there any prerequisites for taking a VB.NET developer certification exam?

Answer: Generally speaking, no prerequisites are required to take a VB.NET developer certification exam; however, some providers may require that applicants have prior experience working with the technology before attempting an exam or have completed certain courses related to it beforehand