Programming certifications are great options for new and intermediate software developers who not only want to boost their programming knowledge, but also to professionally certify the knowledge they already have. Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the number of certifications available for different programming specializations. All you have to do is find the best certifications for programming that suit your tech career goals and dive right in.
In this article, we’ve highlighted a list of the best certifications, both paid and free, for programming—along with the value of these certifications. First, let’s discuss what a programming certification is.
What Is a Programming Certification?
A programming certification is a professional document that is awarded by an independent body to prove that you have met certain standards for professional development in programming. These certifications are not meant to educate you but to validate your skills as a programmer. There are also certification courses, which are structured learning paths designed to help you gain insight and prepare for certification exams.
How Much Can You Earn With a Programming Certification?
You can earn an average of $81,000 as a certified programming professional, according to PayScale. However, the salary range can vary dramatically depending on the type of certification, location, job description, and programming specialization. The years of experience you have in programming will also influence how much you get paid after securing the certification.
Why Is a Programming Certification Important?
A programming certification is important because it can boost your resume, helping you stand out to prospective employers. Knowledge of relevant or popular programming languages, while important, is no longer sufficient to effectively grow in a tech career.
The best certifications for programming can help attract more industry recognition, better pay, and open the door for more advanced professional opportunities. They also demonstrate the problem-solving skills you need to excel in a programming job. Certifications don’t just validate your programming skills. They demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and ensure your achievements align with your career objectives in the tech field.
Industry Recognition
A programming certification is not awarded as a result of educational experience. Rather, it is awarded to industry professionals who have proven their skills and practical knowledge before an independent body of in-field experts. This achievement comes with industry recognition that you may not receive elsewhere.
Validation of Excellence
There are different levels of certification in programming, namely entry-level, intermediate, and professional or advanced certifications. All these programs are designed to certify your excellence in your respective field of programming or software engineering. Earning a certification demonstrates proficiency in specific programming domains and serves as proof of your practical skills and expertise.
Potential for Higher Pay
With the best certification in programming as part of your resume, there is a strong chance that you will get more money than someone without it. While the difference in salaries depends on several other factors as well, professional certification holders overall tend to earn more in the United States.
Best Programming Certifications: An In-Depth Look
CLA: C Programming Language Certified Associate
If you are an entry-level C programmer, this certification can give you an edge and help you fast-track your career. The programming certification is awarded by the C++ Institute, proving that you understand the fundamentals of C programming and syntax and how to complete tasks with this programming language.
CSSLP: Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional
This programming certification is great for professionals in network security, cyber security, and other information security fields. The CSSLP is great for software architects, software developers, software program managers, IT directors, security managers, penetration testers, and any other type of programmer or security expert with hands-on experience. The certification covers key domains such as software development security, security and risk management, and risk management, ensuring professionals are well-versed in these essential areas. Integrating software development principles and security practices into the certification curriculum is crucial for building secure software and maintaining robust cyber security standards.
Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer Certification
This is an associate-level Java certification path for people who have the foundational knowledge of the programming language. The certification covers Java basics, validating your understanding of fundamental concepts, syntax, and introductory topics essential for Java programming. To get the certification, you need to pass the Java SE Programmer (1Z0-808) examination, which demonstrates core Java programming skills and allows you to demonstrate expertise to employers. After earning this certification, you can pursue more advanced Java certifications offered by the same body.
PCEP – Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer
This is the entry-level certification in the series of certifications offered by Python Institute. The PCEP is a coding certification that validates foundational Python skills, helping entry-level Python developers demonstrate their expertise to employers. While there are no prerequisites for taking this certification, you need to know the basic concepts of Python and universal syntax for other popular programming languages.
PCAP – Certified Associate in Python Programming
If you already have the PCEP – Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer certification, you can apply to take the PCAP – Certified Associate in Python Programming certification exam from Python Institute. The PCEP is not a requirement, but it will prepare you for the associate certification. Taking practice tests is highly recommended, as they help you simulate the exam environment, improve your time management, and identify areas that need further study. The passing grade is 70% of all the questions on the exam.
PCPP – Certified Professional in Python Programming Certifications
There are two types of certification for advanced programmers awarded by Python Institute. Before you can qualify for this professional-level programming certification, you need to have in-depth knowledge of Python and all its accompanying technologies. These certifications and all others awarded by the Python Institute need to be renewed after one year to maintain valid status.
CompTIA Security+
This is another popular programming certificate for programmers with a background in data protection. The certification covers important domains such as security and risk management, which are essential for designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive security programs. It gives experts an edge in one of the hottest tech fields today: security. Anyone from cyber security, forensics, cloud computing, incident response, and other security fields can take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam. The test provider is Pearson VUE, and it can be taken both in person and online.
AWS Certified Developer – Associate
Amazon Web Services is one of the leading providers of cloud services in the world. Earning the AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification validates your expertise in cloud development, developing applications, and building scalable applications on the AWS platform. This certification also demonstrates technical expertise in managing the software development lifecycle for cloud-based applications. This is why it is not a surprise that Amazon Web Services Developers earn up to $112,422 on average in 2025, according to ZipRecruiter. The AWS Certified Developer – Associate is one of the best certifications in programming you can get as an AWS developer. The best part is that there are certification preparation tutorials available online, albeit for a fee.
Puppet Certified Professional Exam
This 90-minute certification program is for puppet developers or any developer interested in exploring this software configuration management tool. The certification exam has global recognition, and anyone can register regardless of location. Everything you will be expected to answer during the certification is listed on the website, so you can be well-prepared for your exam. The exam may also include real-world examples to assess your practical skills and ability to solve problems in actual scenarios.
Free Programming Certifications Worth Your Time
- Advanced Diploma in Computer Networks and Internet Protocol: This is not a professional certification, but it is a free diploma that can help you advance your career if you do not have any formal education in computer science. Earning this diploma can also help you qualify for programming jobs by demonstrating your technical skills and commitment to learning. The course duration is 20-30 hours.
- Network Server Security – Protecting the Server and Client Computers: You can access this diploma on Alison.com if you’re interested in network security and you need a professional credential to stand out. It is a simple and short course, so all you have to do is create an account on Alison and start learning.
- Diploma in Advanced iOS and Swift: Do you want to thrive as an iOS developer? This is one of the best programming courses for iOS development, and it comes with a free accredited diploma. Each session covers a vital aspect of Apple and Swift development.
- Discord Servers for Programming: While not a direct certification, Discord servers are an invaluable tool for developing practical skills in coding. The community provides a support system when taking on independent development projects and often serves as a job board for new opportunities like internships or certifications, which can help you prepare for programming roles.
Are Programming Certifications Worth It?
Yes, programming certifications are worth it for any developer who wants to get a professional edge in the job market. The best certifications for programming prove to prospective employers and clients that you have the skills and industry validation required to get the job done. Sources also show that they are associated with higher-paying salaries within similar positions.
Best Certifications for Programming FAQ
PCAP (Certified Associate in Python Programming), CEPP – Certified Expert in Python Programming, PCPP1 (Certified Professional in Python Programming 1), and PCPP2 (Certified Professional in Python Programming 2) are some of the best Python certifications available. Suitability for these certifications depends directly on the proficiency of your skill set.
To get a C professional certification, you need to choose a certification that matches your level of expertise from the C++ Institute, enroll, make the payment, and take the certification exam. If you pass the exam, you will subsequently receive the C programming certification and can add it to your resume.
It takes about three months for a beginner to get certified in C++. Intermediate C++ developers require between one to three months to prepare for the certification. The preparations for these certifications may even last for more than three months, depending on the software certification you choose.
C++ programmers earn an average of $120,212 annually in 2025, according to ZipRecruiter. This amounts to about $58 per hour. However, salaries can range from $22,000 to $199,000 depending on the state, level of experience, company, and job description, among other factors.
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