Key Programming Certifications for Tech Professionals

Programming certifications are a surefire way to help your resume stand out and even increase your earning potential in the IT field. But with so many courses available, it may be difficult to determine which programming certifications are the most worthwhile to pursue. Here, we'll review some of the best programming certifications to acquire in order to advance your career.

Prove Your Fluency in Multiple Languages

Over the years, a handful of programming languages have become undeniable mainstays. Becoming a programming language certified associate in multiple languages can help your resume assert your expertise on your behalf. Here are a few of the most widely used languages to focus on:

• C and C++: These certifications are critical for every programmer, regardless of specialty or industry. Contrary to what their age might suggest, these languages are far from obsolete, especially when coding for faster performance and direct memory manipulation. You can become a C++ and C Certified Associate Programmer or Professional Programmer through the internationally recognized and highly regarded C++ Institute.
• Java: This is an extensively used and popular programming language in the IT industry worldwide. A Java programming certification through Oracle, the creators of the Java platform, is a very powerful credential to have, especially for those with an interest in software development or web development.
• Python: With implementations in everything from data science to artificial intelligence, Python is perhaps the last programming certification needed to call yourself a development master. The Python Institute offers a tiered certification course structure that lets you climb from entry-level to professional.

Get Your Head in the Cloud

Cloud computing is a rapidly growing area of tech with a wide array of career opportunities. The majority of companies are either already cloud-based or are switching to the cloud for data management. Some of the best certifications are:

• Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the top cloud platform service available, making AWS courses intrinsically valuable. Becoming an AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate or AWS Certified Developer Associate will help open doors in a field where demand for AWS-savvy employees is on the rise and will likely remain this way for years to come. Certifications are available directly through AWS.
• Google Cloud technologies are also popular and make for a worthwhile certification. Google Cloud offers foundational, associate, and professional level certifications directly through its website so your qualifications can grow as your career does.

Other Computer Programming Certifications

Microsoft offers a huge catalog of certification programs, all of which have the benefit of carrying a highly recognizable brand name. Offerings include a series of fundamentals certifications for those just starting out or considering a career change, role-based certifications for job-specific skills, and additional certifications in more niche or specialty areas. Explore the library to determine which are the best programming certifications for you.

Expanding certifications and skillsets past the immediate realm of computer science is often a plus. The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a supremely respected organization offering certifications for everyone from entry-level to senior-level employees. PMI certifications demonstrate that you can manage large-scale projects from start to finish, and may help you land new roles or acquire a salary increase.

Where to Start?

The answer to that question is entirely up to you. The ideal starting point depends on your skillsets and career path. If you spend a lot of time writing code, becoming officially certified in C, C++, Java, and Python is certainly a way to go. If you are interested in cloud computing, AWS and Google Cloud are two very worthwhile avenues. And if you want to browse around and expand your career potential, the diverse offerings from Microsoft and PMI can get you there. 

Whatever you choose, know that pursuing any highly regarded certification is a valuable use of your time and resources and will help you stand out in the sea of applicants.

If you’d like to further explore your option within the tech space, you can find more advice or contact our team of expert consultants here. You can also explore our current job openings or submit your resume.