Programming Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide For 2022
Learning to code is an in-demand skill these days. And for good reason, too. Data analysts and developers are among the highest-paid jobs today. In order to get ahead of the competition and find a job in this fast-growing field, you’re going to need some serious programming skills.
There are a variety of programming certification options out there. But not all are created equal in the eyes of potential employers.
From web development to becoming a software engineer, you can learn from industry experts through online instructions. You can study at your own pace, all in the comfort of your home.
No matter your skill level, from beginner to advanced, we’ve compiled a list of the best programming certification options available today. So if you’re ready to take your career to the next level, these programming certifications will focus on teaching you the skills you need to succeed in this high-paying field.
1. Python Certification
Python is a powerful language that was designed to be readable and easy to use. It’s also fast, versatile, and easy to learn so it’s perfect for beginners who want to learn to program. Python is used in many industries, with its broad range of applicability making it a powerful tool for data science and automation. Not to mention it’s also extremely extensible with hundreds of libraries to leverage.
For those who want to get started with Python development but aren’t sure where to start, there are a wide variety of Python certification courses available online that will help you learn the basics and get certified at your own pace. They offer programs that are designed to prepare you for careers in web development, data science, and more. Most offer hands-on and interactive coding with a focus on practical projects.
Top Picks:
- Learn Intermediate Python Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Professional Certificate in Python Data Science (IBM)
- Python Fundamentals Skill Track (DataCamp)
- IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate (Google)
- Python for Everybody Specialization (University of Michigan)
2. R Certification
R programming is an open-source language that provides statistical analysis and data visualization of data for data scientists. It is the most widely used language for statistical analysis in terms of the number of users. It also has its uses in machine learning and other scientific applications.
R certification provides you with hands-on skills to deliver a better understanding of the data analysis process. By studying dplyr, ggplot2, tidyverse, you also receive training in the most common R packages. Plus, learn from industry-leading leaders that help you thrive in the ever-changing world of data science.
Top Picks:
- Data Analyst in R (DataQuest)
- Programming for Data Science with R Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Data Scientist with R Career Track (DataCamp)
- Professional Certificate in Applied Data Science with R (IBM)
- Data Science: Foundations using R Specialization (Johns Hopkins)
3. SQL Certification
SQL (structured query language) is the primary way of communicating with databases. This language allows you to retrieve, manipulate, and store information from a database as the standard language used in relational database management systems (RDBMS). As a database administrator, you need to know how to manage information and data in the database through SQL commands.
From how SQL works to how it’s used, there is a wide range of SQL certification courses that will give you all the information you need. SQL certification validates your expertise in managing, designing, and implementing databases. These certifications have been shown to increase your marketability and visibility. But they also require extensive study and training.
Top Picks:
- Professional Certificate in SQL, NoSQL, and Relational Database Fundamentals (IBM)
- SQL Nanodegree Program (Udacity)
- Analyze data with SQL Skill Path (Codecademy)
- SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization (UC Davis)
- SQL Fundamentals Skill Path (Dataquest)
4. JavaScript Certification
JavaScript is a dynamic, object-oriented programming language that is interpreted by a web browser. It has become widely and commonly used by developers across the web. Plus, it’s fast, widely available, and works on all major browsers. There are hundreds of libraries available to expand its capabilities. Because of its wide use, JavaScript has become a perfect language for beginners with little programming experience to start their coding journey in.
There are many reasons why you would want to learn how to code in JavaScript. For instance, you’ll be able to create interactive websites, app experiences, and mobile applications that are engaging and attractive. JavaScript certification will teach you the basics of JavaScript and how it works. From learning basic syntax to understanding objects and data types, here are some JavaScript certification programs to start coding today with JavaScript.
Top Picks:
- Intermediate JavaScript Nanodegree (Udacity)
- JavaScript Certificate (Codecademy)
- JavaScript for Beginners Specialization (UC Davis)
5. Java Certification
Java is a general-purpose, concurrent, class-based, object-oriented programming language. Java is easy for beginners to get the hang of, but still has all the features programmers need. But even though it is Java’s simplicity that makes it popular among beginners, its flexibility has not gone unnoticed by experienced developers either. If you are looking for a way to start programming or want to try something new, Java may be exactly what you need.
With the rise of Java in the software industry, the need for a Java certification is continuously increasing. If you are planning on taking up a career in software development or want to work with Java as an architect, then you must be interested in getting Java certification. Despite the wide range of courses, the Java certification programs will challenge you with real-world projects and immersive coding practice.
Top Picks:
- Java Programmer Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming with Java Professional Certificate (Georgia Tech)
- Object Oriented Programming in Java Specialization (Duke University)
6. C++ Certification
C++ is a programming language that is regarded as standard in the field of computer programming. In recent years, C++ has been used by many programmers to create games and programs with more intricate features and functions. The C++ language is known for its flexibility, performance, and power because you have direct access to memory for running heavy tasks with fewer computer resources.
Our recommended C++ certifications are designed to validate knowledge and skills in this software programming language. The goal is to help individuals familiarize themselves with the foundational skills of C++ like OOP, memory management, and concurrency. It’s also a great way for individuals who want to get into the software development world, but don’t have any experience yet.
Top Picks:
- C++ Developer Nanodegree (Udacity)
- Professional Certificate in C++ Programming Essentials (IBM)
- MicroBachelors® Program in Programming & Data Structures (NYU)
7. React Certification
React has become one of the most popular Javascript libraries for building user interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It is a design pattern that allows us to create reusable components which can be easily composed into applications without having to build everything from scratch in Javascript. React makes it easy to maintain and build complex user interfaces.
Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for a refresher course, these React certification programs will show you the basics of this popular front-end JS library from Facebook. If you want to get started with React, then these React certification courses will help you evaluate your knowledge in React with coding practice and applied projects.
Top Picks:
- React Developer Nanodegree (Udacity)
- React Certificate (Codecademy)
- Professional Certificate in Full Stack Cloud Developer (IBM)
Summary: Programming Certification
There’s nothing better than learning a new skill. And there’s nothing more rewarding than finally achieving your goal of becoming a certified professional in that field.
Programming certification is essential for those who want to advance their careers, be competitive in today’s marketplace, and stay ahead of the curve.
If you’re just interested in learning the basics of coding or want to sharpen your existing skills, learning to code is a rewarding process.
Get certified with any of these certification programs today to build the right skills you need to succeed and to work in the field of software development and computer science.
