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Best software programmer certifications

Software programmer certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an software programmer to employers. However, not all software programmer certifications provide the same value for job seekers.

The best certifications for a software programmer are Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP), and Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC).

Below is a list of the best software programmer certifications. Obtaining an software programmer certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.

4 best certifications for software programmers

4 best software programmer certifications

1. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

A Certified ScrumMaster helps project teams properly use Scrum, increasing the likelihood of the project's overall success. CSMs understand Scrum values, practices, and applications and provide a level of knowledge and expertise above and beyond that of typical project managers. CSMs act as "servant leaders," helping the rest of the Scrum team work together and learn the Scrum framework.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? 
Certifying website
Certified Scrum Master
Certifying organization
Scrum Alliance
Course that help you to prepare for certification
Certified Scrum Master Exam Prep: Scrum Practice Tests
udemy
4.4
(74)

2. Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP)

This foundation certification is for programmers interested in demonstrating proficiency in the fundamentals of the Java programming language.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? No
Certifying organization
Sun Microsystems, Inc.

3. Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)

This professional competency certification requires successful completion of Certificates of Proficiency in twelve key knowledge areas: Software Engineering Requirements, Software Engineering Design, Software Engineering Construction, Software Engineering Testing, Software Engineering Maintenance, Software Engineering Configuration Management, Software Engineering Quality, Software Engineering Processes, Software Engineering Models & Methods, Software Engineering Management, Software Engineering Project Management, Software Engineering Economics and the successful completion of two advanced applied modules.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)

4. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer I (OCP)

This foundation certification is for programmers interested in demonstrating proficiency in the fundamentals of the Java programming language. To achieve this certification, candidates must successfully complete one exam. It is not necessary to be a Sun Certified Java Associate prior to taking this exam.

Certification details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or written exam required? Yes
  • Renewal required? 
Certifying organization
Oracle Corporation
Course that help you to prepare for certification
Java Certification - I (OCA): Practice for 1Z0-808 Exam
udemy
3.5
(76)

What is the best certification for a software programmer?

The best software programmer certification is Certified Scrum Master (CSM). The Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is awarded by the Scrum Alliance. This certification corresponds to a specialty within a recognized occupation.

Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this software programmer certification:

  • To become a certified Certified Scrum Master (CSM), you need to pass the exam.
  • Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
  • Renew certification every year.

What certifications can impact a software programmer career and salary?

The Certified Scrum Master certification will help you to secure a software test engineer position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A software test engineer's average salary is $75,570 whereas software programmers make an average salary of $71,612.

Best certifications

The most common combination of software programmer certifications include: Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP), and Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC).

Online courses for software programmers to earn certifications

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