Is a Computer Science Certificate Worth It?

The field of computer sciences continues to evolve in both the U.S. and international markets. As a result, those with a passion for computers and technology continue to flock to a degree in computer sciences. 

It’s commonly known that pursuing a degree in the computer sciences is one of the hardest routes to take when deciding on a major but ultimately is a great way to break into the industry after graduation. 

A computer science degree is a great way to start your journey in the industry, but a computer science certificate takes your professional career to the next level. A certificate will allow you to hone in on the computer science skills that you want to perfect. Choosing to take a computer science certification course also results in you being able to find your niche in the industry. 

So, with all that in mind, are computer science certificates worth it? Short answer: Yes. Long answer: Keep reading.

What is a Computer Science Certificate?

A computer science certificate is a non-degree computer science certification that tech professionals can choose to take. The certificate is available in a variety of paths and professionals can choose to add these to their repertoire as a way of demonstrating their skillset. Companies in the industry may require professionals to complete certifications as a prerequisite for the position, but that is not always the case. 

Some of these tech roles that require a computer science certificate include software developer, project manager, and network administrator, to name a few. It’s not always commonplace at a company to require these certifications, so many seek them out with their own professional goals in mind.

Computer Science Certificates are incredibly beneficial to career growth. Not only do they prove to an employer that you have the necessary skills to be successful at the job, but they are shown to support job retention. 

Even if you are in the beginning stages of your career and actively searching for a job, computer science certificates are shown to strengthen your resume and urge an immediate pay raise compared to your competition who doesn’t have a certificate.  

Additionally, recruiters are now actively searching for certifications on your resume. These certificates show that you have mastered a skill, and the employer can feel confident upon hire that you will succeed in the role.

What are Some of the Top Certifications to Choose From?

So, computer science certifications are a great way to enhance your resume and overall career, but what are the best certifications to take? That is a tricky question that tech professionals everywhere seem to debate upon. The best certifications to choose will vary from person to person. It’s essential to think about your background, skills, and career goals when thinking about which CS certificate to take. According to the 2020 Robert Half Technology Salary Guide, some valuable certifications include, but are not limited to, a certified data professional (CDP), a certified ethical hacker (CEH), and Microsoft technology associate (MTA) certifications.

If you’re starting in the field, a CompTIA certification or a Microsoft technology professional certification might be for you. The CompTIA is a foundational certification that is perfect for beginners. It covers hardware, technical support, and troubleshooting. Tech giant, Microsoft, extends a variety of certifications for professionals, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Some of these certifications include Windows operating system fundamentals and database fundamentals.

ISACA offers some of the best certifications for IT security, including reliable information system auditor and information security manager certifications. CompTIA cloud+ is an excellent certification for cloud computing. Meanwhile, the certified data professional (CDP) is a worthwhile certificate for those involved in or wanting to pursue IT operations.

There are numerous choices for computer science certifications. The hard part is narrowing down which certification will be right for your career.

What Is the Industry Saying About These Certifications?

Not every certification is created equal, but there seems to be unanimous support of computer science certifications in the industry. It is known that getting a certification can boost your career in the best possible way. Promotions and pay increases are commonly associated with computer science certification. 

The benefits of obtaining a certification are endless. They provide an instant advantage on your resume, prove your skill set, and put you ahead of the competition in the IT industry.  The industry says that certificates are inherently vital to professionals who want to move forward within the industry. 

At the same time, computer science certifications can be expensive, so while it is worth the investment, it’s important to narrow down the best certification for you before enrolling. 

So, Is a Computer Science Certificate Worth It?

No matter what stage you are in your career, there is a computer science certificate for everyone, and they are worth it. These certificates not only show an employer that you have mastered a particular skill, but they prove that you have up-to-date information on that subject, which is extremely important in the tech industry. 

Graduates of certification programs are said to be lifelong learners and can adapt more quickly than those with no certifications.  Certification is recommended for any professional who wants to stand out from the crowd, and further advance their skills and career.