Microsoft
Microsoft SQL Server CertificationsDatabase professionals working on Microsoft’s SQL Server have a plethora of certification options to validate their expertise. The entry-level Certified Technology Specialist certification is available for SQL Server 2008 in three concentrations: implementation and maintenance (which focuses on the day-to-day tasks of database management), database development (which emphasizes writing application code and developing solutions for SQL), and business intelligence development and maintenance. The business intelligence concentration deals with the use of Reporting, Analysis, and Integration Services for the SQL Server. Each certification requires the completion of one exam, with no prerequisites, at a cost of $125.
After being awarded Certified Technology Specialist status on the SQL Server, candidates can progress to the Certified IT Professional level and choose between Microsoft’s Database Administrator, Database Developer, and Business Intelligence Developer certifications. Again, completion of one exam is all that’s necessary to upgrade to this designation.
For individuals who have received certification on previous versions of the SQL Server, including the Microsoft Certified Database Administrator for SQL Server 2000 or any SQL Server 2005 certifications, Microsoft provides upgrade exams to test new skills sets and update one’s certification to current standards. To view a complete list of SQL Server certifications for database professionals, as well as upgrade paths, visit http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/cert-sql-server.aspx#tab1.
Other Database Certifications
While Oracle and Microsoft provide the most prominent database certifications in the industry, a number of other providers offer alternatives to professionals looking to bolster their resume. CIW’s Database Design Specialist certification is a vendor-neutral designation that assesses the fundamental skills needed for database design and optimization. Candidates who have already been awarded certification through Oracle or Microsoft should have no problem tackling the foundational topics of the 50-question exam. Learn more about CIW’s database certifications at http://www.ciwcertified.com/certifications/web_development_series/database_design.php.
For professionals and consultants working with SAP systems, certification is available at the Associate, Professional, and Master levels. Three focus areasapplication, technology, and developmentare offered at each level to help candidates receive the most appropriate designation for their career path. To find out more about SAP certification, check out http://www.sap.com/services/education/certification/levels/index.epx
Finally, contributors to the open source database PostgreSQL have announced commencement of development of a certification program for the database. While development is still in its early stages, interested candidates can keep up-to-date on its progress by visiting http://www.postgresqlcertification.org/node/1.