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Best solutions architect certifications
The best certifications for a solutions architect are The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).
Solutions architect certifications demonstrate your competency as a solutions architect to employers. However, not all solutions architect certifications provide the same value.
Below is a list of the best solutions architect certifications. Obtaining a solutions architect certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
12 best certifications for solutions architects
| Rank | Solutions architect certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) | The Open Grou... |
| 2 | Certified Scrum Master (CSM) | Scrum Allianc... |
| 3 | Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) | MS |
| 4 | Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP) | (ISC)2 |
| 5 | AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate | AWS |
| 6 | CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) | Cisco |
| 7 | Energy Management Certification (EMC) | NWEEI |
| 8 | Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) | MS |
| 9 | AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional | AWS |
| 10 | VMware Certified Professional 6 - Cloud (VCP-Cloud) | VMWare |
| 11 | Pro: Windows Server 2008, Enterprise Administrator (MCITP) | MS |
| 12 | Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD) | Global Knowle... |
12 best solutions architect certifications
1. The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF)
The TOGAF® standard, a standard of The Open Group, is the open Enterprise Architecture standard used by the world's leading organizations to improve business efficiency. The Open Group TOGAF Certification Program, with over 75,000 certifications, enables Enterprise Architects and trainers around the globe to demonstrate their proven knowledge of the framework. The TOGAF 9 Certified qualification is achieved through passing two exams, following a course of self-study or attendance at an Accredited Training Course. There is also an entry level qualification, TOGAF 9 Foundation, which is achieved by passing just the first exam.
- 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? No
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
2. 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.
- 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?
3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
Prove your ability to build innovative cloud and on-premises solutions across multiple technologies.
- 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? No
4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP)
CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to demonstrate 2 years of professional experience in the area of architecture and is an appropriate credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may typically work as independent consultants or in similar capacities. The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would generally develop, design, or analyze the overall security plan. Although this role may typically be tied closely to technology, it may be fundamentally closer to the consultative and analytical process of information security.
- 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? Every 3 year(s)
5. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate (Released February 2018) examination is intended for individuals who perform a solutions architect role. This exam validates an examinee's ability to effectively demonstrate knowledge of how to architect and deploy secure and robust applications on AWS technologies. It validates an examinee's ability to: Define a solution using architectural design principles based on customer requirements. Provide implementation guidance based on best practices to the organization throughout the life cycle of the project.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
6. CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations (CCNP SP Operations) validates knowledge and skills required (of a Tier II or Tier III support engineer) to troubleshoot and maintain service provider IP NGN core (PE-PE and PE-CE) network infrastructures. With a CCNP SP Operations certification, a network professional demonstrates knowledge and skills required to isolate network performance problems, implement proactive fault measures using operations management processes, frameworks, and network management systems.
- 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)
7. Energy Management Certification (EMC)
EMC is an advanced certificate program designed for Engineers, Technicians, and Facility Maintenance & Energy Managers.This program goes beyond the fundamentals and teaches a broad spectrum of energy management principles and techniques. Topics include building energy use, glazing, insulation, building envelope, heating/cooling, secondary HVAC, controls, central plant equipment, energy auditing, operation and maintenance.
- 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?
8. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification is for IT professionals and developers looking to get their first job in Microsoft technology. Whether in the cloud or on-premise, this certification validates the core platform skills needed in an IT environment.
- 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?
9. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional exam validates advanced technical skills and experience in designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform. Example concepts you should understand for this exam include: Designing and deploying dynamically scalable, highly available, fault-tolerant, and reliable applications on AWS Selecting appropriate AWS services to design and deploy an application based on given requirements Migrating complex, multi-tier applications on AWS Designing and deploying enterprise-wide scalable operations on AWS Implementing cost-control strategies
- 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? Every 2 year(s)
10. VMware Certified Professional 6 - Cloud (VCP-Cloud)
The VMware Certified Professional - Cloud (VCP-Cloud) certification validates your ability to install, configure and administer a Cloud environment using vCloud Director and related components. Successful candidates demonstrate core vSphere skills in extending data virtualization throughout the cloud by creating and managing vApps, service catalogs, and organization/provider VDCs, as well as administering cloud enabled networking and storage. This competency is built on the skills and knowledge needed to successfully install, deploy, scale, and manage VMware vSphere environments along with a solid foundation in basic cloud infrastructure concepts including public/private/hybrid clouds, multi-tenancy, and cloud security.
- 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?
11. Pro: Windows Server 2008, Enterprise Administrator (MCITP)
The enterprise administrator is responsible for the overall Windows Server 2008 R2 environment and architecture. The enterprise administrator translates business goals into technology decisions and designs mid-range to long-term strategies.
- 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?
12. Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD)
Microsoft Certified Application Developers (MCADs) use Microsoft technologies to develop and administer applications and deploy and implement web back-end data solutions. Join the community of developers who are leveraging the power of .Net.
- 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
What is the best certification for a solutions architect?
The best solutions architect certification is The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF). The The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF) is awarded by the The Open Group. This certification tests for knowledge about the use of proprietary software or hardware products. It is used primarily for computer-related companies.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this solutions architect certification:
- To become a certified The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), you don't need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 2 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for solutions architects?
The most in-demand solutions architect certification is Certified Scrum Master based on all active job postings. Having this solutions architect certification will give you access to more solutions architect jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a solutions architect career and salary?
The The Open Group Architecture Framework certification will help you to secure a architect position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A architect's average salary is $75,007 whereas solutions architects make an average salary of $116,327.
The most common combination of solutions architect certifications include: The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE).
Online courses for solutions architects to earn certifications
1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate - SAA C03
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2. AWS Certified Solution Architect Associate 2023
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5. AWS Services for Solutions Architect Associate
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6. NEW AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate 2023
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8. Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional 2023
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9. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate 2023
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10. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Training SAA-C03
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12. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate: Complete Course
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13. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate - EXAM REVIEW
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14. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Professional SAP-C02
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15. Ultimate AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate SAA-C03
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16. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional 2023
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17. TOTAL: AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate (SAA-C03)
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18. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Practice Exams
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19. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate Latest-Hands on!
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20. AWS Certified Solutions Architect Associate 2023 - SAA-C03
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