Computer Science Certifications

Why Choose a Certification in CS?

Information technology (IT) professionals may select from a wide variety of nondegree computer science certifications to demonstrate their competence in a specialty, learn valuable skills, and advance their careers. A computer science certification online validates a professional's technical knowledge and experience with specific products, methods, or practices. Roles within the computer science industry that may require certification include systems engineer, security manager, network administrator, software developer, and project manager. Because these high-paying roles involve using technical expertise to manage and protect essential operations and sensitive data, employers value — and often require — proven credentials.

Computer science certifications ask candidates to pass one or more tests. In preparing to pass these credentialing exams, professionals gain and practice certain skills. Many professionals value the process of preparing for these tests since they gain knowledge they can apply in their jobs and use to advance their careers.

Types of Certifications

Certification candidates should know the difference between certifications and select the right one for them. Professionals who work with a particular product, platform, or practice may need a vendor-specific certification to validate their expertise. Vendor-neutral certification serves those who want to change jobs, or who seek the flexibility to work in their area of expertise regardless of the specific tools their employer uses.

Vendor-Specific Certifications

Computer technology companies offer professional certifications to train and encourage people to use their software, products, platforms, and processes. For example, Microsoft offers certifications for software developers and database managers who use Microsoft products. Similarly, Cisco provides certifications for network engineers and architects who create and manage networks using Cisco infrastructure products.

Companies using the products of a vendor like Microsoft or Cisco may demand their employees hold vendor-specific credentials. Vendor-specific certification works to validate your skills or qualify you for a more advanced position or higher salary. In contrast, vendor-neutral certifications remain a valuable asset, regardless of which software your employer uses, or where you work.

Vendor-Neutral Certifications

Professional and nonprofit organizations serving the computer technology industry also offer certifications. However, these organizations do not sell or promote specific vendors and their products. Professionals earning these vendor-neutral certifications can use them in their roles, regardless of who employs them or what specific technology products or platforms their companies use.

For example, CompTIA offers a variety of vendor-neutral certifications for systems administrators, security managers, support specialists, and network administrators. Similarly, nonprofit (ISC)^² offers cybersecurity professionals a variety of credentials to use in industry or government roles. Employers value these credentials, regardless of the specific technologies they use for their businesses. Vendor-neutral certifications enable IT professionals to advance in their careers and change jobs as desired, rather than remain locked into a specific product or employer.

How to Evaluate Certifications

Before investing in a computer science certification, make sure it meets your professional goals. First, conduct a cost-benefit analysis. Add up the cost of the required training materials and exams, and ask yourself if you can earn more or qualify for a better job by spending this money and putting in the time needed to obtain the credential.

Consider whether the certification will help you gain skills you need for a promotion. Examine the topics you will master during exam preparation: Will learning more about these topics help you on the job? Think about how the certification process relates to your current role, and whether it would help you move into another position.

Also consider whether you need a vendor-specific or vendor-neutral credential. If demonstrating your skills using a specific vendor's products would benefit you, investigate the certifications offered by that company to train you. Otherwise, seek vendor-neutral certification, which verifies your ability to perform in your role regardless of your employer's chosen software.

Applying and Paying for Certifications

Entry-level computer science certifications typically do not require prerequisites, though credentialing agencies may recommend candidates possess some applicable work experience. Certifications intended for experienced professionals may require several years of relevant work experience, specific coursework, or prior certifications.

Most computer science certifications require candidates to pass one or more exams, allow them to prepare for these exams on their own terms. Credentialing organizations offer training materials such as textbooks, labs, and study guides, and provide training courses in a variety of formats, including online self-study courses and instructor-led online and in-person courses. Flexible offerings enable candidates to select the course of study that fits their experience level, schedule, location, budget, and learning preferences. The duration of a certification course may vary, but typically spans 3-12 months.

Certification costs also vary, depending on the training options selected, location, and membership status with the credentialing organization. Most exams cost $200-$500, and training costs $500-$3,500.

Certifications

Computer companies, professional associations, and nonprofit organizations offer a variety of professional computer science certifications. Companies selling hardware or software offer vendor-specific credentials, while professional organizations and nonprofits typically provide vendor-neutral certifications. Candidates earn these credentials after passing an exam or series of exams. Training and preparation for certification exams can vary significantly by available options and cost. Candidates may select from a menu of self-study training materials, self-paced online courses, and instructor-led trainings to suit their needs and experience level.

Cisco

Microsoft

Professional Associations

Nonprofits