If you’re thinking of becoming a computer engineer, the best certifications for computer engineers can set you up for a successful career. Computer engineering is a discipline that combines electrical engineering and computer science. Professional certifications show your competencies and open up a wide variety of job opportunities.
While online degrees can take up to four years to complete, you can finish your certification in a matter of months. In this article, we dive into several computer engineer certifications, where you’ll learn about the certification process, exam fees, and other requirements. We have also included a list of free computer engineer certifications.
What Is a Computer Engineering Certification?
A computer engineering certification is an advanced credential that proves your competencies, skills, and knowledge. Computer engineering involves hardware and software and encompasses certification in topics including cyber security, software development, information technology, and networking. A technology professional will get certifications to demonstrate mastery of a subject and enhance their qualifications.
How Much Can You Earn With a Computer Engineer Certification?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer hardware engineers was $155,020 in 2024.¹ This is significantly higher than the national median wage across all occupations. Certified IT professionals often command even higher salaries depending on the organization.
The Global Knowledge Training study also shows that 97 percent of IT managers prefer to hire candidates with certifications. If you already have professional experience, a certification can boost your qualifications and set you up for a promotion with higher pay and improved benefits.
Why Is Computer Engineer Certification Important?
A computer engineer certification is important because it can set you apart in your job applications. Employers in the tech industry receive many applications where they scrutinize qualifications. Certifications demonstrate that you have proven skills and knowledge. If you are a beginner in tech, you should get a certification to boost your job application.
Certifications Level Up Your Credentials
Software engineering certifications will enhance your credibility as a professional. Many employees demand engineering degrees as educational requirements, but they also look for relevant certifications when hiring applicants.
You can make a good impression by adding a certification as an additional credential to your resume. When you apply for a job, you will compete with many candidates with a degree, but the best certifications for computer engineers will add great value to your application.
Certifications Keep You Updated With the Latest Tools and Skills
Computer engineer certifications are good for professional development and career growth. Certifications update you with the industry standards and the latest technologies in engineering programs. Lifelong learning is crucial in the tech field as it is constantly changing. As a tech professional, keep adding certifications to stay current with emerging technology trends.
Certifications Prove That You Are Qualified
Earning the best certifications for computer engineers demonstrates that you are qualified to do the job. Certification programs can prove that you have the ability, knowledge, technical skills, and soft skills that employers want.
While your experience level is important, your academic performance plays a vital role in your qualifications. Gaining a certification means that you value professionalism and are committed to learning new skills.
Best Certifications for Computer Engineers at a Glance
| Certification | Cost | Requirements |
| CompTIA A+ | $265 per exam (two exams required) | Candidates must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102)² |
| Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD) | Price varies by region | Candidates must presently hold the Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD) and pass the LabVIEW programming exam³ |
| AWS Certified Machine Learning, Specialty | $300 | Recommend candidates have at least two years of experience in AWS Cloud and an AWS Associate and/or Professional Certification⁴ |
| CCNP Data Center | $700 ($400 for Core Exam, $300 for Concentration Exam) | Candidates must pass the core exam and one concentration exam⁵ |
| Professional Software Engineering Master Certification (PSEM) | IEEE Computer Society member: $890 IEEE Computer Society non-member: $1,200 | Recommend candidates complete the IEEE CS online exam and have at least a four-year college degree in computer science or any other related field⁶ |
| CompTIA Tech+ | $125 | Candidates must earn a minimum score of 650 (out of a possible 900)⁷ |
| Microsoft Azure AI Engineer Associate | Price varies by region | Candidates must pass the certification exam and be proficient in C#, Python, REST-based APIs and SDKs⁸ |
| Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | ISACA member: $575 ISACA non-member: $760 | Candidates must pass the ISACA CISM exam and have at least five years of work experience in information security with a minimum of three years experience in information security management.⁹ ¹⁰ |
| Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) | $249 | Candidates must pass the examination and have at least one year of work experience in (ISC)² SSCP Common Body of Knowledge¹¹ |
Top Computer Engineer Certifications: A Closer Look
CompTIA A+
This certification program by CompTIA covers computer engineering topics like operating systems, hardware systems, networking devices, operational procedures, troubleshooting, and mobile devices. You must pass two exams with up to 90 questions each.² CompTIA also offers the CompTIA CertMaster Practice for A+, a prep exam for CompTIA A+ certification. Prestigious companies that use A+ include Intel, HP, and Dell.
Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD)
CLD tests the LabVIEW programming skills of candidates and is one of the best certifications for computer engineers by National Instruments (NI). Multiple industries use LabVIEW programming in automation.
The NI LabVIEW certification program has three levels: Certified LabVIEW Associate Developer (CLAD), Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD), and Certified LabVIEW Architect (CLA). Candidates should start with CLAD before applying to CLD.³
AWS Certified Machine Learning, Specialty
This certification by AWS is for a data scientist, cloud architect, or anyone who performs artificial intelligence and machine learning using the AWS cloud. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and multiple-response questions, lasts 180 minutes, and costs $300.⁴ There is no training required to take the exam, but AWS recommends professional experience.
CCNP Data Center
CCNP Data Center is a certification program by Cisco that consists of two exams. The core exam tests your data center infrastructure skills, and the concentration exams cover topics such as designing and implementing data center infrastructure.
It is an advanced certification for those who want to pursue a career in data center technologies. Candidates must pass the 350-601 DCCOR core exam ($400) and one concentration exam ($300).⁵
Professional Software Engineering Master Certification (PSEM)
PSEM is one of the best certifications for software engineers to increase their qualifications. This exam assesses skills in software design, programming, and software testing. The cost is $690 for members and $865 for non-members (exam-only). Recertification is required every three years.⁶
CompTIA Tech+
This entry-level certification by CompTIA covers basic topics in IT such as database management, security, infrastructure, basic concepts of IT, and software applications. The exam voucher costs $125.⁷ There is no prior experience needed, but CompTIA offers CertMaster Practice for Tech+ to help you prepare.
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
This certification program by Microsoft focuses on AI principles using Azure Applied AI Services and Azure Cognitive Services. The required exam is AI-102, and the cost varies by country or region.⁸ Certification holders must renew annually through a free online assessment.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
CISM by ISACA is one of the best certifications for computer engineers who want to build careers in network security. This certification covers information security governance, risk management, programs, and incident management. Candidates should complete the exam with 150 questions in four hours. The exam fee is $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members.⁹ ¹⁰
Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
(ISC)² offers this SSCP certification. It covers advanced topics in security operations, incident response, cryptography, network security, and application security. The exam costs $249 in the Americas.¹¹ ISC2 also provides official training and study tools for exam preparation. Candidates need one year of experience or can take the Associate path.
Free Computer Engineering Certifications Worth Your Time
- Computer Fundamentals Certification Exam (Advanced). StudySection provides this certification covering IT fundamentals like operating systems, computer basics, hardware basics, and networking.¹²
- Linux Operating System Certification Exam (Foundation). Another free certification program by StudySection, covering Linux commands, environment, and scripting.¹³
- Fortinet: Information Security Awareness (NSE-1 level). Free awareness course with free digital certificate/badge.¹⁴
Are Computer Engineer Certifications Worth It?
Yes, the best certifications for computer engineers are worth it because they will boost your reputation in the technology industry. Certification holders master a specific field in computer engineering through courses and certifications, this will help you choose the right career path.
Whether you are a fresh computer engineering graduate looking for a job or a tech professional who wants to level up your career, there are a wide range of certifications available.
Best Certifications for Computer Engineers FAQ
The highest-paying career opportunities for computer engineers are web developers, software engineers, design engineers, hardware engineers, security administrators, software test engineers, and technicians. Computer engineers can apply for a job both in the hardware and software fields.
Yes, computer engineers are in demand. The BLS reports that about 6,100 job opportunities are expected for computer hardware engineers each year.¹
You can apply by choosing which certification you want and visiting the official website of the certification provider. Be sure to check the qualifications, prep materials, pricing, and admissions requirements. Register on the website, schedule the exam date, and submit payment.
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You can become a computer engineer by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering. Enhance your qualifications through certifications, short courses, and coding bootcamps. Bootcamps offer practical training for specific skills and topics related to computer engineering, such as cyber security, operating systems, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
Sources
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm
- https://store.comptia.org/exams/a-exam-a/
- https://www.ni.com/en/support/training/certification/programs/certified-labview-developer.html
- https://aws.amazon.com/certification/exams/
- https://learningnetworkstore.cisco.com/cisco-study-bundles/dccor-e-learning-and-exam-bundle/CSCU-LPEX-DCCOR-V1-028218.html
https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/learn/training-certifications/certifications/meraki-solutions/exams-and-training.html - https://www.computer.org/product/education/professional-software-engineering-master-certification
- https://store.comptia.org/exams/tech-exam-fc0-u71/
https://store.comptia.org/search/?q=tech%2B - https://learn.microsoft.com/credentials/certifications/azure-ai-engineer/
- https://support.isaca.org/s/article/How-do-I-register-for-the-CISA-CISM-CGEIT-CRISC-CDPSE-exam-1597877235310
- https://www.isaca.org/credentialing/cism
- https://www.isc2.org/Register-for-Exam/ISC2-Exam-Pricing
https://www.isc2.org/certifications/sscp - https://www.studysection.com/computer-fundamentals-advanced
- https://www.studysection.com/linux-operating-system-foundation
- https://training.fortinet.com/local/staticpage/view.php?page=library_information-security-awareness
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