Looking to give your coding career a serious boost in 2025? You’re in the right place. In today’s tech scene, just knowing how to code isn’t always enough to get noticed. Companies are actively looking for proof that you’ve got the skills, and that’s where certifications come in. Think of them as a shortcut to showing employers you’re up-to-date and capable. We’ve rounded up some of the top certifications for developers that can really make a difference this year. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in the game for a while, these credentials can help you stand out and maybe even earn more.
Key Takeaways
- Cloud computing certifications from AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are highly sought after in 2025, reflecting the massive growth in cloud adoption across industries.
- Certifications in areas like Kubernetes (CKA) and cybersecurity (CEH, CompTIA Security+) are crucial for developers aiming for specialized roles in DevOps and security.
- For those focused on specific programming languages, the Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer remains a strong choice, while IBM’s Full Stack Software Developer certification covers broader development skills.
- Employers increasingly value certifications as a way to quickly assess a candidate’s practical skills and commitment to professional development, often leading to higher salary offers.
- Pairing relevant certifications with a well-crafted resume and job search strategy, potentially using services that tailor applications, can significantly improve job prospects and career advancement in the competitive 2025 tech market.
1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
If you’re looking to make a mark in the cloud computing space, the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is a solid choice. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a big player in the cloud market, and knowing how to build and manage systems on their platform is a skill many companies are looking for. This cert basically shows you know how to design systems that are reliable, cost-effective, and secure on AWS.
What does it actually cover? Well, the exam tests your ability to design secure architectures, create resilient systems, build high-performance solutions, and figure out how to keep costs down. It’s not just about knowing the services; it’s about putting them together in a smart way. Think about things like choosing the right storage, setting up databases, and making sure your applications can handle a lot of users without crashing.
Who should go for this? It’s generally recommended to have at least a year of hands-on experience with AWS. If you’re a developer who’s been working with AWS services, or maybe an IT pro looking to move into cloud architecture, this could be a great next step. It’s a good way to get recognized for your cloud skills and open up new job opportunities. People with this certification often land roles like Cloud Architect, Solutions Architect, or Cloud Engineer. The salary potential is pretty good too, with many AWS-certified professionals earning well over $150,000 annually in the US.
To get ready, you’ll want to mix up your study methods. Many people find success using online courses, diving into the official AWS training materials, and, importantly, getting hands-on experience. Building your own projects on AWS using their free tier is a fantastic way to learn. Practice exams are also a must to get a feel for the actual test format. It takes time, usually a few months of dedicated study, but the payoff can be significant for your career.
2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
This certification is for folks who design and plan cloud solutions on Microsoft’s Azure platform. It’s a step up from the associate-level certs and really shows you know your way around building robust, scalable, and secure applications in the cloud. Think of it as proving you can architect the whole system, not just build a piece of it.
What you’ll learn is pretty broad. You’ll get into designing compute, network, and storage solutions. Security is a big part of it too, making sure everything is locked down tight. You’ll also cover things like migrating existing applications to Azure and figuring out the best way to manage costs. It’s all about making smart decisions for the business using Azure.
To get this, you usually need to pass two exams. The first one covers general Azure architecture, and the second one focuses on specific areas like identity, security, and compliance. It’s not a walk in the park, so expect to put in some serious study time. Many people find that having a few years of experience with Azure before tackling this makes a big difference. It’s a great way to show employers you’re serious about cloud architecture and can handle complex projects. Padmasree Warrior, CTO of Cisco, has talked about how important cloud computing is for modernization, and this certification really aligns with that trend. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to specialize in cloud architecture and want to be recognized for your skills in designing cloud solutions.
3. Google Professional Cloud Architect
Alright, let’s talk about the Google Professional Cloud Architect certification. If you’re looking to really get into the weeds with Google Cloud Platform (GCP), this is a big one. It’s not for beginners, mind you. Think of it as a certification for folks who are already pretty comfortable with cloud concepts and want to prove they can design and manage complex solutions on GCP. It’s generally recommended for senior developers or technical leads who are making the big decisions about cloud architecture.
What do you actually learn? Well, it covers a lot. You’ll get tested on how to build multi-cloud setups, which is pretty common these days. Data engineering is a huge part of it too, dealing with things like BigQuery and setting up data pipelines. If you’re into machine learning, this cert touches on integrating AI services. And, of course, there’s a good chunk on security and making sure everything is compliant, which is super important for businesses. They also expect you to know your way around Kubernetes and containers, which is pretty standard for modern cloud work.
This certification is valid for two years, and the exam itself costs $200. Most people find they need about 5 to 6 months of dedicated study time to feel ready. It’s a solid choice if your company is heavily invested in GCP or if you’re targeting roles that specifically require deep knowledge of their services. It really shows you can handle the advanced stuff, like designing solutions that are both secure and can scale up or down as needed. It’s a good way to show you’re serious about cloud architecture, especially if you’re aiming for those higher-level positions. You can find more details about preparing for cloud certifications on this guide.
4. Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)
So, Kubernetes. It’s pretty much the standard for managing containerized applications these days, and if you’re working with cloud-native stuff, you’ve probably heard of it, or maybe even used it. The Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) certification is designed to show you really know your way around Kubernetes, not just in theory, but in practice. It’s a hands-on exam, meaning you’ll be doing actual tasks on a live system, which is a big deal because it proves you can actually do the job.
This certification is all about managing Kubernetes clusters in a production environment. Think about setting up new clusters, keeping existing ones running smoothly, and fixing things when they inevitably break. It covers a lot of ground, from installing and configuring Kubernetes to making sure your applications can talk to each other and the outside world. You’ll also get tested on how to deploy and manage your applications, handle storage, and generally keep everything stable.
Here’s a quick look at what the exam focuses on:
- Troubleshooting (30%): This is a huge part. You need to be able to figure out why a cluster or a node isn’t working and fix it. This includes looking at logs and resource usage.
- Cluster Architecture, Installation & Configuration (25%): This covers the basics of setting up Kubernetes, like using tools such as
kubeadm, and making sure it’s secure with things like RBAC. - Services & Networking (20%): How do your applications communicate? This section tests your knowledge of Kubernetes networking, including services and network policies.
- Workloads & Scheduling (15%): This is about getting your applications running and keeping them updated, managing things like deployments and configurations.
- Storage (10%): Making sure your applications can store data persistently is important, so this covers persistent volumes and storage classes.
It’s a tough exam, but getting certified shows employers you’ve got the skills they need. Many companies are using Kubernetes, and having the CKA can really make your resume stand out. It’s a good way to show you’re serious about cloud infrastructure and can handle the complexities of container orchestration. If you’re looking to get into roles like DevOps Engineer or Cloud Operations, this is definitely one to consider. For those interested in building applications for Kubernetes, the Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD) is a related certification worth exploring.
5. Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer
Java is still a big deal in the programming world, especially for big company applications and Android apps. If you’re working with Java, getting the Oracle Certified Professional Java SE Programmer certification is a smart move. It shows you really know your stuff, from the basics to more complex things like handling errors and making code run at the same time.
This certification proves you can design, build, and maintain Java applications effectively. It’s not just about knowing the theory; it’s about being able to solve problems and write solid code. Employers look for this because it means you’ve got a good grasp of Java and can handle tricky coding tasks. It’s a great way to boost your resume, especially if you’re just starting out or looking to move up in your career.
Here’s what you’ll typically cover:
- Core Java concepts like object-oriented programming.
- Advanced features such as lambda expressions and streams.
- Handling multi-threading and parallel processing.
- Working with databases using JDBC.
Getting this certification can really help your career. For example, entry-level Java jobs might start around $60K-$80K, but with this certification, you can expect to earn more, with mid-level roles often paying $80K-$110K, and senior developers pulling in over $150K. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about Java development.
6. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
So, you’re looking to get certified in Azure development? The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204) is a solid choice, especially if you’re already working with Microsoft technologies or aiming for roles in companies that heavily use Azure. It really shows you know how to build, test, and maintain cloud applications and services on the Azure platform.
This certification validates a bunch of practical skills. You’ll be tested on things like implementing Azure compute solutions, which includes using Azure App Service and Azure Functions for serverless stuff. They also look at your ability to manage storage and data, like working with Azure Cosmos DB and Blob Storage. Security is a big part of it too – how you handle user authentication, authorization, and just generally building secure apps in Azure. Plus, you’ll need to know about managing APIs and event-based solutions, and how to monitor and fix things when they go wrong in production.
To get this certification, you’ll need to be comfortable with Azure SDKs, the command-line interface (CLI), and PowerShell. It’s not just about knowing the services; it’s about being able to actually do things with them.
Who is this for? Well, it’s great for developers who want to formalize their Azure development skills. If you’re new to cloud development, it provides a good roadmap. If you’re experienced, it’s a nice way to get official recognition. Many people find it helps them land jobs or get promotions.
This certification is particularly relevant given Azure’s strong presence in enterprise environments, with 95% of Fortune 500 companies using it.
Here’s a quick look at what the exam covers:
- Azure Compute Solutions: Implementing containerized apps, Azure App Service, and Azure Functions.
- Azure Storage: Developing with Azure Cosmos DB and Azure Blob Storage.
- Azure Security: User authentication, authorization, and secure solution building.
- Azure Monitoring and Optimization: Monitoring, troubleshooting, and improving Azure solutions.
- API and Event Management: Working with APIs and event-driven architectures.
It’s a good idea to have about a year or two of development experience before tackling the exam. The exam itself costs $165 and is valid for two years. Given the demand for Azure developers, especially in enterprise settings, this certification can really pay off. It’s a smart move if you’re looking to build a career in cloud development, and it complements other skills like using frameworks such as Xamarin for cross-platform app development.
7. AWS Certified Developer – Associate
So, you’re looking to get certified as an AWS developer? That’s a smart move, honestly. AWS is pretty much everywhere in the cloud world, and having this credential really shows you know your way around building and deploying apps on their platform. It’s not just about knowing the services; it’s about putting them to work efficiently and securely.
This certification is great because it covers a lot of the stuff that’s actually used day-to-day. Think about things like setting up continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines – that’s a big one for getting code out the door quickly and reliably. You’ll also get a solid grasp on core AWS services like EC2 for compute, S3 for storage, Lambda for serverless functions, and databases like RDS and DynamoDB. Plus, they really push the importance of security and how to fix problems when they pop up in a live environment.
Who is this for, though? Well, if you’ve been working with AWS for at least a year, this is a natural next step. It’s a good way to get recognized for your skills, especially if you’re aiming for roles that involve cloud development. If you’re totally new to AWS, maybe start with the Cloud Practitioner cert first to get the basics down. But for most developers already dabbling in AWS, this Associate-level cert is a solid choice.
Let’s talk numbers, because that’s important, right? In the US, folks with this certification are pulling in an average salary of around $165,000. That’s a pretty nice bump, and considering the exam fee isn’t too crazy, the return on investment looks pretty good. With cloud tech just continuing to grow, having this on your resume is definitely a plus for job security and finding cool remote work opportunities.
8. IBM Full Stack Software Developer
The IBM Full Stack Software Developer certification is a solid choice if you’re looking to get a handle on both the front-end and back-end of web development. It’s designed with current tech trends in mind, which is pretty important these days. Think cloud-native development, which means working with things like containers and microservices – stuff companies are really moving towards. They also touch on generative AI tools, which are becoming a bigger part of how we code. Plus, it covers application modernization, helping you update older systems, and DevOps practices like CI/CD pipelines. This means you’ll be learning how to build and deploy software more efficiently.
What skills does this certification actually validate? Well, on the front-end, you’ll get familiar with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks like React. For the back-end, it covers Node.js, Express, and Python with Django. It also gets into database skills, both SQL and NoSQL, and how to manage data effectively. Beyond just coding, it integrates DevOps workflows, teaching you about GitHub and making sure you can deliver software reliably. They even touch on application security and service mesh technology, which are key for bigger projects. Building a portfolio on GitHub is also part of it, which is a smart way to show off what you can do.
This program seems pretty accessible, even if you’re new to programming. It’s also a good option if you’re looking to switch careers into tech or if you’re already in IT and want to add full-stack skills to your resume. Students can use it to back up their studies with practical application building. The program is available through Coursera for a monthly fee, which makes it a reasonable investment. With over 26,000 job openings for full-stack developers in the U.S. and a median entry-level salary around $144,000, this certification could really help you get your foot in the door. It’s a good way to prepare for the job market, and you can find more tips on staying relevant in tech on pages like this.
9. Google Associate Cloud Engineer
So, you’re thinking about getting into Google Cloud, huh? The Associate Cloud Engineer certification is a solid place to start. It’s designed to show you know how to actually use Google Cloud to get things done, like setting up environments, deploying apps, and keeping things running smoothly. It’s a practical certification that validates real-world skills.
What does it actually prove you can do? Well, it covers a few key areas:
- Setting up cloud solution environments (think projects, virtual machines, storage).
- Planning and putting cloud solutions into action using tools like Cloud Run and Deployment Manager.
- Making sure your solutions are running well, which includes monitoring and using things like the gcloud CLI for management.
- Handling security and access, like using IAM roles and encryption.
This cert is great if you’re transitioning from traditional IT or just starting out in cloud computing. It’s also good for developers who want to add deployment, monitoring, and security skills to their toolkit. The exam itself costs $125, which is pretty reasonable for what you get. It’s a good way to get your foot in the door with Google Cloud Platform, which, while smaller than AWS or Azure, is still a major player in the cloud market. Plus, Google is always working on making its platform safer, like with its efforts to warn users about deceptive sites on the web.
In terms of what you’ll earn, certified Associate Cloud Engineers in the US are doing pretty well. The average salary can be around $146,533 annually. Entry-level roles might start closer to $86,000, but with experience, you can definitely see that number climb. It’s a good stepping stone if you’re aiming for roles like cloud architect or DevOps engineer down the line.
10. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is a solid choice if you’re looking to get into this field or strengthen your existing security skills. It teaches you how to think like an attacker, which is pretty useful for finding and fixing security weaknesses before bad actors do. This certification is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to perform penetration testing and understand network security from an offensive perspective.
The CEH program covers the entire ethical hacking process, broken down into five key phases: Reconnaissance, Scanning, Gaining Access, Maintaining Access, and Clearing Tracks. The latest version, CEH v13, even incorporates artificial intelligence, which is a big deal because AI is changing how we approach security. This means you’ll learn about using AI tools for things like finding vulnerabilities faster and responding to threats more quickly.
Here’s a look at what the CEH covers:
- Penetration Testing: Learning how to find security holes in applications and systems.
- Network Security: Understanding common network attacks and how to defend against them.
- Web Application Security: Focusing on things like the OWASP Top 10 and how to write secure code.
- Mobile Security: Checking mobile apps for security flaws.
- Social Engineering: Understanding how people can be tricked into compromising security.
It’s worth noting that the CEH is generally considered an intermediate-level certification. Many people find that having a couple of years of IT security experience helps a lot when preparing for the exam. The cost for the CEH exam can be around $1,199, and it’s valid for three years. The job outlook for ethical hackers is strong, with average salaries in the US often exceeding $110,000 annually, and demand is only expected to grow. Getting certified can really help boost your career prospects in cybersecurity job outlook for 2025.
11. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a big deal if you’re looking to lead projects, especially in the tech world. It’s not just about managing tasks; it’s about guiding teams through complex processes, whether they’re using old-school methods or newer agile approaches. Think of it as getting a stamp of approval that says you know how to keep things on track, manage budgets, and talk to everyone involved, from your team to the higher-ups.
This certification is really about proving you can handle the people, the processes, and the business side of projects. It’s become even more important as companies deal with things like AI and cloud computing, and need people who can connect technical work to the company’s main goals. Plus, with so many teams working remotely now, knowing how to manage a distributed group is a huge plus.
To even be considered for the PMP, you’ll need some solid experience. We’re talking about thousands of hours managing projects, plus some formal training in project management. It’s a commitment, for sure, but the payoff can be pretty significant.
Here’s a quick look at what the PMP covers:
- Planning: Figuring out what needs to be done and how.
- Budgeting: Keeping track of the money.
- Communication: Making sure everyone is on the same page.
- Risk Management: Identifying and dealing with potential problems.
- Stakeholder Management: Keeping all the important people happy and informed.
Many programmers find that getting PMP certified can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. Reports suggest PMP-certified folks can earn significantly more than their non-certified peers, sometimes by over 20%. It really helps bridge the gap between the technical side of development and the business objectives, making you a more well-rounded professional.
12. CompTIA Security+
Alright, let’s talk about CompTIA Security+. If you’re looking to get into cybersecurity, or even if you’re already in IT and want to shore up your security knowledge, this one’s a big deal. Think of it as the foundational certification that shows you know your way around protecting systems and data. It’s vendor-neutral, which is pretty cool because it means the skills you learn apply pretty much anywhere, not just with one specific company’s products.
So, what does it actually cover? It dives into the nitty-gritty of spotting weaknesses in systems, figuring out how to fix them, and what to do when something bad actually happens. You’ll get a handle on things like:
- Risk management: How to identify potential problems before they blow up.
- Threat detection: Recognizing when something fishy is going on.
- Incident response: What steps to take when a security breach occurs.
- Compliance: Understanding the rules and regulations you need to follow.
- Securing networks and cloud environments: Keeping things safe whether they’re on-prem or in the cloud.
This certification is highly regarded, especially if you’re aiming for roles in government or defense sectors, as it meets specific U.S. Department of Defense requirements. It’s a solid stepping stone if you’re new to cybersecurity, and many people pair it with the CompTIA Network+ to get a really well-rounded IT foundation. The job market for cybersecurity pros is booming, and having Security+ on your resume can really make you stand out. It’s a practical certification that validates the skills employers are actively looking for right now.
13. MySQL 8.0 Database Developer Oracle Certified Professional
If you’re working with databases, especially in a development capacity, getting certified in MySQL 8.0 is a smart move. This certification from Oracle really shows you know your way around MySQL, which is still a big player in the database world. It’s not just about knowing SQL commands; it’s about building and managing databases efficiently for applications.
This credential validates your ability to handle a range of database development tasks. You’ll learn about connecting to databases securely, building applications that use data effectively, and designing database schemas that make sense. Plus, it covers how to manage transactions properly, which is pretty important for data integrity. The certification covers key areas like query optimization, which is vital for making sure your applications run smoothly.
Here’s a quick look at what the certification covers:
- Connectors and APIs: How to pick and use the right tools to get data.
- Data-Driven Application Development: Making apps that work well with databases.
- MySQL Schema Design: Creating and changing database structures.
- Transaction Control: Managing data changes and making sure they’re consistent.
- Query Optimization: Speeding up database requests.
- Stored Program Development: Writing code that lives inside the database.
- JSON and Document Store Management: Working with newer data formats.
Getting this certification can really help your career. The job market for database professionals is steady, with good growth expected. Many companies rely on MySQL, so having this official recognition can make you stand out. It’s a solid way to prove your skills and potentially earn more. You can find more details about the MySQL 8.0 certification on Oracle’s site.
14. Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist
Artificial intelligence is really changing how we do things, and getting certified in AI can make a big difference for your career. Companies are looking for people who can work with AI, especially with how fast things are moving. This certification shows you know your stuff in AI development and application. It’s not just about knowing the theory; it’s about being able to build and use AI tools effectively. Think about roles like AI Engineer or Machine Learning Specialist – these are the jobs that are really growing right now.
What kind of skills does this certification focus on? Well, it covers a lot of ground. You’ll likely get tested on your ability to work with machine learning models, understand different AI algorithms, and maybe even some natural language processing or computer vision. It’s also common for these programs to touch on how to use AI within cloud platforms, which is a big deal for many businesses. You might also learn about ethical considerations in AI, which is becoming more important as AI becomes more widespread.
Here’s a general idea of what you might be tested on:
- Machine Learning Fundamentals: Understanding algorithms like regression, classification, and clustering.
- AI Development Tools: Proficiency with libraries and frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
- Data Preprocessing: Skills in cleaning and preparing data for AI models.
- Model Deployment: Knowing how to put AI models into production environments.
- AI Ethics and Governance: Awareness of responsible AI practices.
If you’re serious about a career in AI, getting a certification like this can really help you stand out. It’s a way to prove to employers that you have the practical skills they need. You can find more information about AI career paths and the skills needed on AI job roadmaps.
It’s a good idea to check out what specific skills are covered by different AI certifications, as they can vary. Some might focus more on the research side, while others are all about practical application. Either way, investing in an AI certification is a smart move for anyone looking to get ahead in this exciting field.
15. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
Thinking about dipping your toes into the cloud world, specifically with Microsoft Azure? The Azure Fundamentals certification, often called AZ-900, is a solid starting point. It’s designed to give you a good grasp of what cloud computing is all about and how Azure fits into the picture. You’ll learn about the basic concepts, the different services Azure offers, and how they’re structured. It also touches on pricing, support, and the important stuff like security and compliance.
This certification is great because it doesn’t require you to be a seasoned developer or IT pro. It’s really for anyone who wants to understand cloud technology and Microsoft’s cloud platform. So, whether you’re a student, a business analyst, or just curious about cloud computing, this is a good way to get your bearings. It’s a foundational step that can open doors to more specialized Azure certifications down the line.
Here’s a quick look at what you’ll cover:
- Cloud Concepts: Understanding what cloud computing is, its benefits, and different service models (like IaaS, PaaS, SaaS).
- Azure Core Services: Getting familiar with key Azure services such as compute, networking, storage, and databases.
- Security, Compliance, and Trust: Learning about Azure’s approach to security, privacy, and maintaining compliance with various regulations.
- Pricing and Support: Understanding how Azure services are priced and the support options available.
It’s a good way to show you have a basic understanding of cloud technology, which is becoming more important in almost every tech role. If you’re looking to move into cloud-related jobs or just want to add a recognized credential to your resume, this is a sensible first move. You can find more details about the exam objectives on the Microsoft Learn website.
Wrapping It Up
So, picking the right certification in 2025 is a smart move for your tech career. The job market is growing, and employers really do look at these credentials. Think about what you want to do – maybe it’s cloud stuff with AWS or Google, or perhaps cybersecurity is more your speed. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your goals. Remember, these certificates are great, but they work best when you also have real projects to show off. Combining what you learn from a certification with hands-on experience is how you really get noticed. It’s about showing you know your stuff and can actually do the work. Good luck out there!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I think about when picking a certification to help my career in 2025?
When you choose a certification in 2025, pick ones that match what the industry needs right now and what you want to do in your career. Look for certifications that big companies know and trust. It’s also good if they focus on skills you can actually use and cover new areas like AI, cloud computing, and online safety. Think about how much it costs, who gives the certification, and if it can lead to more learning later. Certifications that show you can do the work and are up-to-date with tech trends will make you stand out to bosses.
Which is better for growing my career in 2025: AWS Certified Developer or Google Associate Cloud Engineer?
The AWS Certified Developer certification is likely to help your career grow more in 2025 because AWS is used by so many companies and people need to know how to use it. This certification can lead to more job options and better pay, especially if you like working with cloud technology. The Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification is a good choice if you’re just starting out or want to learn the basics of cloud computing. Google Cloud is becoming more popular, but AWS is still used more widely and offers more career benefits right now. Both are good, but pick the one that fits your career dreams and the type of cloud you want to work with.
Can certifications help programmers earn more money or get noticed more in the job market?
Yes, getting certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, or Certified Artificial Intelligence Scientist can help you get better jobs and earn more. People with these certificates often make over $12,000 more each year and get access to more popular jobs. These certificates show you know about cloud computing, AI, and software development, which are skills many companies are looking for. If you’re a programmer who wants to do well in the tech world in 2025, getting these certifications is a smart move.
How much do software developer certifications usually cost?
The cost for software developer certifications can be different. Some are as cheap as $99, like Azure Fundamentals, while others, like Certified Ethical Hacker, can cost up to $1,199. Most popular ones, such as AWS Solutions Architect or Java SE Developer, are usually between $150 and $300. Don’t forget to also budget for study materials, which might cost between $100 and $500, and maybe extra fees if you need to take the test again.
How long does it typically take to become a certified software developer?
How long it takes to get certified depends on how hard the certification is. For basic certifications like Azure Fundamentals or Docker Associate, it might take about 2 to 3 months to study. For certifications at the associate level, like AWS Solutions Architect or Azure Developer, plan for 3 to 4 months. If you’re going for professional-level certifications, such as Google Cloud Architect or advanced security ones, it could take 5 to 6 months of studying.
Are cloud certifications a good investment for developers?
Definitely! Cloud certifications from places like AWS, Azure, and GCP are some of the best investments you can make as a developer. They are really important if you want to work remotely, start your own company, or work for a big business. Developers who have cloud certifications are 40% less likely to lose their jobs and get to work in the fastest-growing job areas. So yes, they are very much worth it.
