IT certifications are a great way to increase your skills and prove your knowledge in a certain field. At the same time, they are challenging and require time to prepare for, making it hard to choose which certification you should target.
Certifications are a great way to keep up with the latest industry trend. And they validate that you know your field’s current and emerging technologies and practices.
The IT sector is constantly evolving. So, it cannot be easy to figure out which certifications will be most valuable in the future.
If you’re interested in getting started in IT, you’re probably wondering which certifications will help you get ahead of the competition. It’s a good question, and luckily for you, we have your answer: 30 IT certifications will give you an edge over other job candidates and put you on the fast track to success.
Table of contents
- What is an IT Certification?
- Benefits of an IT Certification
- What is the Cost of Getting an IT Certification?
- What are the Jobs you can do with an IT Certification?
- How Much Can You Earn As an IT Certified Professional?
- Steps to Getting an IT Certification
- 30 IT Certifications to Get in 2023
- 1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
- 2. CompTIA Project+ Certification
- 3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- 4. Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA-V)
- 5. VMware Certified Professional Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)
- 6. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
- 7. Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V)
- 8. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
- 9. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) Certification
- 10. ITIL Foundation Certification
- 11. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- 12. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- 13. Amazon Web Services Certified Developer
- 14. Apple Certified Support Professional:
- 15. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
- 16. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching
- 17. CompTIA A+
- 18. CompTIA Cloud+
- 19. CompTIA Network+
- 20. CompTIA Security+
- 21. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management
- 22. VMware Certified Professional
- 23. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals
- 24. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Associate Certification Oracle Database:
- 25. RAC and Grid Infrastructure Administration certification
- 26. Microsoft SQL Server Certification:
- 27. Google Digital Marketing Certification
- 28. ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor
- 29. SAP Certified Technology Associate
- 30. Data Center CCIE
- CONCLUSION
- FAQs
- References
- We Also Recommend
What is an IT Certification?
An IT certification is a credential that an individual can earn to show that they have attained a certain degree of competence in information technology.
Achieving an IT certification is often a requirement for some jobs, and it can help to provide the holder with a competitive advantage over other applicants when looking for a job.
For example, if you are applying for a position where you will be expected to install and configure Microsoft Exchange Server, having achieved Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) Messaging certification would show that you have the expertise required to perform the tasks associated with that job.
You Should Check Out: 20 Best Free IT Certifications In 2023
Benefits of an IT Certification
1. Ability to demonstrate your proficiency:
IT certifications allow you to demonstrate your proficiency in a specific area (e.g., big data, security, programming, networking) and validate your ability to perform a particular job role (e.g., administrator, analyst, architect, developer).
2. You become valuable:
Employers put a high value on IT certifications because they are a reliable way to assess whether or not an applicant has the skills necessary for the job.
Certified professionals can start their career off on the right foot because they have proven their value from day one.
And once on the job, certified employees generally advance faster than those who lack certifications.
If you want to become valuable, you should read this article; 10 Best Personal Training Certifications in 2023
3. Certifications improve your current job performance:
Being certified allows you to better perform your job. This is because certifications help you learn how to use new technology and add new skills to your repertoire.
You’re also able to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and become proficient in new areas that your organization might need.
Certification means you’ve been trained in a specific skill set and can immediately start using those skills on the job instead of ramping up over time.
Read Also: Top 15 Best Project Management Certifications For 2023
4. Certifications improve your resume:
A certification on your resume shows potential employers that you’ve invested time and money, into improving your skillset and becoming proficient in new technologies.
These employers, know that they’re getting an employee who has training and experience in specific technologies.
After getting your certification, it’s important to learn this; How To List Certifications On Resume In 2023 (With Samples)
5. Show the readiness to progress in one’s career:
IT certifications are a great way to show potential employers that you’re serious about taking your career to the next level. They demonstrate that you’ve taken the time to learn about the specific tools and technologies, you’ll use in your new role and that you have a solid understanding of the industry.
With an IT certification on your resume, you stand out from other candidates who don’t yet have the expertise to perform at this level.
For all your professional career, read through 10 Best Professional Certifications To Enhance Your Career In 2023
6. Increased Earnings:
People with IT certifications make more money on average than their non-certified counterparts.
According to Randstad US, IT professionals with certifications made an average of $80,000 a year, while those without certifications made $67,000 a year.
As a certified professional, you will also enjoy many benefits that come with greater responsibility and higher salaries. You’ll be able to take on a bigger role in your company, which will hopefully translate into additional perks and opportunities. This could include better benefits packages and more vacation time.
There’s never the best time to learn the 20 Certification Programs that Lead to High-Paying Jobs
7. Career Opportunities:
As an IT-certified professional looking for work, you’ll have access to exclusive opportunities that will help you advance your career. And if you already have a job and want to get promoted or take on new challenges at work, having an IT certification can make that happen for you much faster.
8. Valuable Skills:
If you’re looking to broaden your skillset and add new tools to your skillset that will help you succeed in your current position or change careers entirely, getting an IT certification is one of the best ways to achieve this.
What is the Cost of Getting an IT Certification?
Obtaining an IT certification can be a great way to enter the field of Information Technology if you don’t have any prior experience or knowledge, and there are many options to choose from, depending on your interests and goals.
However, it’s important to understand what it will cost you before you decide to get your certification.
The exact cost of getting an IT certification depends on several factors, including the type of certification you’re seeking, how you plan on studying for the exam, and whether or not your employer will reimburse any or all of the expenses associated with obtaining one.
Generally speaking, the most expensive part of getting an IT certification is taking the actual exam. The test costs anywhere from around $100 per attempt (for CompTIA A+ Certification) up to $1,199 for some Cisco Certifications.
This means that if you fail your first attempt at passing a test and need to take it again (which is common) then your total cost could be over $2,000 just for that one test alone!
Also, in addition to paying the price of admission, each time you sit down at your desktops or laptops; you will also need study materials like books and flashcards which can add up quickly if you’re trying to pass multiple exams.
The cost of getting an IT certification can vary widely depending on the certifying organization, the test itself, and other factors.
Some organizations may offer to retake pricing or ‘bundle’ pricing for multiple tests, which could bring down your costs.
What are the Jobs you can do with an IT Certification?
When you get an IT certification, you’re opening doors for yourself. Not only does it help you get hired, but it also helps you advance in your career and earn more money.
The IT industry is growing faster than most other industries. In 2018, the number of IT jobs in the U.S. grew by 2.9%. That’s faster than jobs in construction (2.6%), education (1.4%), finance (1.3%), business and professional services (1.3%), health care (0.8%), manufacturing (0.7%), and mining (0%).
And there are so many opportunities in the field of IT! Here are just a handful of jobs that open up to you with an IT Certification
- System Engineer
- Administrator
- Database Administrator
- Network Security Administrator
- Help Desk Technician
- Technical writer or product documentation specialist in an IT company
- Business Intelligence specialist
- Data Management
- Desktop Applications Development
How Much Can You Earn As an IT Certified Professional?
The tech job market is booming, and it shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT field is projected to see 13% growth from 2016-to 2026.
And with the average tech salary topping $84,000 a year, it’s not hard to see why so many people are pursuing IT certifications, both as a career path or as a way to increase their earning potential in their current role.
The average salary for an IT professional with at least one certification is $88,000, according to The Global Knowledge 2019 IT Skills and Salary Report. However, salaries vary based on the type of certification and experience level.
Now, the more experience you have, the greater likelihood you’ll earn more money with your certification.
In today’s job market, IT professionals are highly paid, and even in the worst of economic circumstances, IT professionals are known to earn a solid living. According to the Dice 2021 Tech Salary Report, compensation for IT professionals in the United States increased by 3% between 2019 and 2020.
And even when COVID-19 was driving a large number of firms to slash budgets, the average income for a technologist was $97,859 during this period.
We expect information Technology to grow by 12% from 2014 to 2024, which is faster than the average for all occupations (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
According to PayScale, the average salary for an individual with a CompTIA A+ certification is $51,000. While those who are certified in Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) earn an average of $70,000 a year.
Steps to Getting an IT Certification
If you’re passionate about computers and technology but also enjoy helping others, a career in IT support might be for you. Earning an IT certification can help you get there.
Here are the steps to getting your IT certificate:
1. Decide which IT certification is right for you:
Different types of IT certifications focus on different aspects of the industry. Some common ones include CompTIA for general knowledge and Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect for cloud computing. There are also certifications in cybersecurity, data management, and more.
The best way to decide which certification is right for you is to map out your career goals, and then find a certification that will help you get there.
2. Find a training program:
Once you know what kind of certification will help you advance your career; you can start researching training programs that can help you reach your goal.
A good training program should not only prepare you to pass the exam but also connect you with people who can offer mentorship, practice questions, and other resources that will set you up for success.
3. Research the training options for the certification you want:
You may be able to take a class at a local college or university that will help prepare you for the exam. Or rather, take online certifications which would be a more flexible option, if you lead a busy lifestyle.
4. Sign up for a class:
Once you know the type of certifications you want to apply for, it is time for you to sign up for a class and get started. As you sign up for a class lecture will commence.
5. Study:
Once you’ve found a training program, it’s time to buckle down and study! Keep in mind that this may take up most of your time as well as require
6. Practice taking tests:
Once you have a better idea of what the test covers, it can be helpful to practice tests questions so that you know what to expect when exam day rolls around.
7. Write an Exam:
After signing up for a class, and receiving lectures, you would then be required to write an exam at the end of the course.
And this exam depends on the structure of the institution, you are enrolled in. The exam would be to ascertain whether you are fit to get the certification or not.
8. Apply for your certification:
The success of your exam will determine maybe you are fit to apply for certification. But with a good result and having met the requirement, you will get certified.
Looking to add some new skills to your resume? We have put together a list of 30 IT certifications that are worth investing in, this year.
30 IT Certifications to Get in 2023
1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) is a certification program for individuals seeking entry-level information technology (IT) positions.
2. CompTIA Project+ Certification
CompTIA Project+ is intended for business professionals who coordinate or manage small-to-medium-sized projects both inside and outside of information technology.
3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
According to Wikipedia CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) is an information technology (IT) certification from Cisco Systems. CCNA certification is an associate-level Cisco Career certification. The Cisco exams have changed several times in response to the changing IT trends.
4. Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA-V)
The Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA – V) certification validates the skills required by IT operators and administrators to install, configure, and manage a highly available environment that includes Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops Delivery Controllers, StoreFront, Citrix Receiver, Director, Studio, and Profile management.
5. VMware Certified Professional Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)
VMware Data Center Virtualization certifications are designed to gauge your level of skill in designing, installing, and managing VMware vSphere environments in a real-world environment.
6. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is intended for anyone with one or more years of hands-on experience designing available, cost-efficient, fault-tolerant, and scalable distributed systems on AWS.
7. Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V)
The Citrix Certified Associate – Virtualization (CCA – V) certification validates the skills required by IT operators and administrators to install, configure, and manage a highly available environment that includes Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops Delivery Controllers, StoreFront, Citrix Receiver, Director, Studio, and Profile management.
8. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
The Microsoft Technological Associate (MTA) certification is the name of a group of entry-level certifications issued by Microsoft that demonstrate fundamental technology skills in people who obtain it.
Earning the certificate(s) gives the core knowledge required to launch a career in technology, according to Microsoft.
9. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) Certification
The CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification is an IT workforce credential that uses behavioral analytics on networks and devices to avoid, detect, and mitigate cybersecurity threats via continuous security monitoring.
10. ITIL Foundation Certification
ITIL Foundation is a IT Service Management certification based on ITIL concepts. The Foundation certification program is designed to provide professionals with a grasp of the rules and framework.
11. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Security Systems Professional (CISSP) Certification was introduced in 1994 by (ISC)², an international, nonprofit membership association and arguably the world’s leading cybersecurity professional organization.
It is designed to validate information security work experience and knowledge of security principles and practices.
12. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The CEH certification program is one of the most advanced certifications on the market today. They recognize globally it.
As a certified ethical hacker, you will be able to assess an organization’s security posture by using the same knowledge and tools that a malicious hacker would use, but with legal authorization from systems owners.
13. Amazon Web Services Certified Developer
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is intended for anyone with one or more years of hands-on experience designing available, cost-efficient, fault-tolerant, and scalable distributed systems on AWS.
14. Apple Certified Support Professional:
This certification is designed to help desk personnel or technical coordinators who manage networks or provide technical support to Apple computer users.
15. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert is a certification that proves you know how to design, implement and manage solutions on Microsoft Azure.
16. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching
A Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification is a network professional’s first step on the path toward a larger, more comprehensive knowledge of networking.
A CCNA Routing and Switching certification will help you build your technical skills, validating your ability to install, operate, configure, and verify basic IPv4 and IPv6 networks.
17. CompTIA A+
A CompTIA A+ certification is a globally-recognized credential that demonstrates competency as an entry-level IT professional. The CompTIA A+ certification validates the skills and knowledge of an individual to perform tasks such as installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventative maintenance and basic networking.
18. CompTIA Cloud+
The CompTIA Cloud+ certification is a certification for system administrators, network engineers, and IT professionals who want to learn more about cloud computing. The test covers cloud models, virtualization, infrastructure, security and resource management.
19. CompTIA Network+
A CompTIA Network+ certification is a great way to start in IT. With it, you can be sure that your skills will be in demand and that you’ll have the opportunity to specialize in one of the most rapidly growing sectors of the economy.
20. CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification is designed for professionals responsible for creating and implementing enterprise-wide security measures to prevent disasters and keep data safe.
21. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management
According to cloud academy, the ITIL Foundation Certificate course provides comprehensive first-level training for anyone involved in the provision, support, or delivery of IT-enabled services in a modern digital organization.
It teaches the fundamentals of the very latest version of the most widely adopted guidance on IT service management (ITSM) in the world.
22. VMware Certified Professional
VMware Certifications validate the critical skills required to integrate and manage the technology that drives our customers desired business outcomes. Certifications are organized into multiple technology areas with levels for those new to the industry as well as experts in the field.
23. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals
MTA: Database Fundamentals certification holders have demonstrated basic knowledge and skills with databases, including relational databases such as Microsoft SQL Server. The MTA program is an excellent starting point for a future career in technology.
24. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Associate Certification Oracle Database:
The Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) for Oracle Database 12c assesses fundamental concepts and skills DBAs need for daily operational management and maintenance.
25. RAC and Grid Infrastructure Administration certification
This Oracle Database 19c RAC and Grid Infrastructure Administration course is designed for experienced database administrators who are required to plan, implement and administer Oracle 12cR2,18c or 19c Real Application Clusters configurations for Oracle databases.
26. Microsoft SQL Server Certification:
Microsoft SQL certifications are professional credentials that validate your SQL Server skills and abilities.
27. Google Digital Marketing Certification
Google Digital Marketing Certification is unquestionably valuable. It’s an excellent course to take if you want to get started in digital marketing. It is provided by Google, is free, and has been accredited by the Open University and other organizations.
28. ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor
This certification is a global standard for IT professionals who work in information systems, specifically security, control and auditing.
29. SAP Certified Technology Associate
This certification validates a candidate’s knowledge of SAP project management. This certification validates whether consultants have advanced business skills and the ability to apply the necessary methodologies and tools. It builds on consultant skills and experience.
30. Data Center CCIE
This is a Cisco certification that verifies a candidate’s abilities in complex data network planning, preparation, operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
An IT professional with this certification are qualified to take the lead in harnessing evolving technologies and has the domain expertise to meet the requirements of an agile IT infrastructure.
CONCLUSION
IT Certifications are important to advance in your career, as an IT professional. However, you must take time to. Choose the right certification that fits your skillset, and professional interest.
Also, as a newbie in the field, IT Certifications in a booming field would set you on the path for a thriving career. You should get yours today!
FAQs
An IT certification is a credential that an individual can earn to show that they have attained a certain degree of competence in information technology.
The following are the benefits of getting an IT Certification, and they are as follows:
Ability to demonstrate your proficiency
You become valuable
Certifications improve your current job performance. Certifications improve your resume.IT certifications are a great way to show potential employers you’re serious about taking your career to the next level.
The test costs around $100 per attempt (for CompTIA A+ Certification) to $1,199 for some Cisco Certifications.
System Engineer
Administrator
Database Administrator
Network Security Administrator
Help Desk Technician
Technical writer or product documentation specialist in an IT company
Business Intelligence SpecialistData Management
Desktop Applications Development
According to PayScale, the average salary for an individual with a CompTIA A+ certification is $51,000. While those who are certified in Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) earn an average of $70,000 a year.
References
- What are high-paying IT certifications: https://www.pcmag.com
- Salary paid to professionals with IT Certifications: https://www.payscale.com
- IT certification roles: https://www.coursera.org
- Computer Science certifications: https://www.indeed.com
- Microsoft Certifications: https://www.credly.com
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