Backend Developer Certifications

Explore the top Backend Developer certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Backend Developer

In the rapidly evolving tech industry, backend developers stand as the architects of the digital world, crafting the foundational code that powers applications and software. Certifications in this technical domain serve as a beacon of proficiency, assuring employers of your specialized skills in server-side logic, databases, and application integration.

Embarking on the journey to get certified opens doors to advanced knowledge, industry recognition, and the potential for career advancement. This guide aims to illuminate the path to certification, providing backend developers with the insights needed to select credentials that resonate with their professional growth and the technological demands of the market. Whether you're beginning your backend development career or seeking to fortify your expertise, the right certification can be a transformative milestone in your professional journey.

Top Backend Developer Certifications

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer
Oracle
Certified Node.js Developer (JSNAD)
OpenJS Foundation
Professional Data Engineer Certification
Google Cloud
MongoDB Certified Developer Associate
MongoDB, Inc.
Red Hat Certified Specialist in Enterprise Application Server Administration
Red Hat
Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
ISC²
Zend Certified PHP Engineer
Zend by Perforce
AWS Certified Developer – Associate
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD)
The Linux Foundation
Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
Microsoft

Best Backend Developer Certifications

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer

Certification Provider
Oracle
Best For
Java Developer, Senior Java Developer, Software Engineer, Application Developer, Back-End Developer, Full-Stack Developer
Description
The Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Developer certification validates a strong understanding of Java, focusing on key areas such as creating Java applications, lambda and modular programming, data handling, and concurrency. Candidates must demonstrate their expertise in Java Standard Edition 11, proving their skills in writing, maintaining, and optimizing Java code. This certification is ideal for professionals aiming to showcase their proficiency in modern Java technologies and techniques.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
120 hours
Price
$245
Prerequisites
  • Understanding of basic Java programming and object-oriented concepts
  • Passing the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Programmer I exam (1Z0-815) or having a previous version of the OCP Java certification as a prerequisite
  • Passing the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 11 Programmer II exam (1Z0-816)
  • Experience with Java development, ideally in a professional environment
  • Familiarity with Java SE 11 features and APIs
  • Knowledge of general programming techniques and software design principles

    • Certified Node.js Developer (JSNAD)

    Certification Provider
    OpenJS Foundation
    Best For
    Backend Developer, Full Stack Developer, JavaScript Developer, Node.js Engineer, Software Developer with JavaScript experience, Web Developer with server-side expertise
    Description
    The Certified Node.js Developer (JSNAD) certification, offered by the OpenJS Foundation, is a professional credential that validates an individual's expertise in Node.js, a popular JavaScript runtime. This certification demonstrates a developer's proficiency in creating server-side applications using Node.js and their understanding of Node's asynchronous programming model, core modules, and its use in scalable network applications. Candidates are tested through a hands-on, performance-based exam, ensuring practical competence in Node.js development.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $300
    Prerequisites
  • Basic understanding of JavaScript and programming concepts such as variables, arrays, objects, and functions
  • Familiarity with Node.js and experience in creating Node.js applications
  • Understanding of asynchronous programming and its paradigms in Node.js (callbacks, promises, async/await)
  • Knowledge of Node.js core modules and their use in developing scalable network applications
  • Ability to write unit tests for Node.js applications
  • Hands-on experience with Node.js package manager (npm) and working with dependencies

    • Professional Data Engineer Certification

    Certification Provider
    Google Cloud
    Best For
    Data Engineers, Cloud Solutions Architects, Machine Learning Engineers, Big Data Specialists, Data Analytics Managers, IT Professionals with Data Focus
    Description
    The Professional Data Engineer Certification by Google Cloud validates an individual's expertise in designing, building, operationalizing, securing, and monitoring data processing systems. It focuses on the ability to leverage, deploy, and continuously train pre-existing machine learning models. The certification emphasizes the practical application of skills such as managing data lifecycle, ensuring solution quality, and understanding how to process data in a cloud-based environment, making it ideal for professionals aiming to demonstrate their proficiency in data engineering on the Google Cloud Platform.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    100-120 hours
    Price
    $200
    Prerequisites
  • A basic understanding of cloud computing and the Google Cloud Platform.
  • Experience with data processing and data analytics, including knowledge of SQL and experience with databases.
  • Familiarity with machine learning and its application in data processing.
  • Ability to design and implement data processing systems, ensuring they are secure, scalable, and efficient.
  • Knowledge of software development methodologies and tools.
  • There are no formal prerequisites for taking the exam, but Google recommends having at least 3 years of industry experience, including 1+ years designing and managing solutions using GCP.

    • MongoDB Certified Developer Associate

    Certification Provider
    MongoDB, Inc.
    Best For
    Software Engineers, Backend Developers, Full Stack Developers, Database Administrators with MongoDB experience, Data Engineers, Application Developers
    Description
    The MongoDB Certified Developer Associate certification is designed for software engineers who want to demonstrate their expertise in building applications using MongoDB. It validates a developer's understanding of MongoDB's fundamentals, including data modeling, ingestion, query, and schema design. By obtaining this certification, developers show they possess the skills necessary to handle MongoDB projects effectively, from setup and configuration to complex query operations and optimization. This certification is ideal for professionals seeking to prove their proficiency in this popular NoSQL database technology.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $150
    Prerequisites
  • Fundamental knowledge of MongoDB and NoSQL databases
  • Experience with developing applications using MongoDB
  • Understanding of MongoDB's document model and how to interact with the database using CRUD operations
  • Familiarity with MongoDB's aggregation framework
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages supported by MongoDB drivers, such as JavaScript, Python, or Java
  • Completion of relevant MongoDB University courses or equivalent practical experience is recommended but not required

    • Red Hat Certified Specialist in Enterprise Application Server Administration

    Certification Provider
    Red Hat
    Best For
    System Administrators, Middleware Administrators, Java EE Application Developers, IT Engineers with Java focus, DevOps Professionals, Technical Support Specialists
    Description
    The Red Hat Certified Specialist in Enterprise Application Server Administration certification validates expertise in managing Red Hat JBoss Enterprise Application Platform (EAP). It demonstrates a professional's ability to deploy, manage, and configure enterprise Java applications. By earning this certification, individuals prove their skills in optimizing and tuning JBoss EAP, securing applications, and integrating with other services, making them valuable assets for enterprise-level Java environments. This certification is ideal for system administrators who specialize in Java application servers.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Basic understanding of networking and UNIX/Linux command line navigation
  • Experience with system administration on Microsoft Windows, UNIX, or Linux operating systems
  • Understanding of Java EE and experience with Java application servers
  • Completion of Red Hat Application Administration I (JB248) and Red Hat Application Administration II (JB348) courses or equivalent experience
  • Red Hat recommends these courses but they are not mandatory prerequisites
  • Passing the Red Hat Certified Specialist in Enterprise Application Server Administration exam (EX248)

    • Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)

    Certification Provider
    ISC²
    Best For
    Software Development Security Engineer, Application Security Analyst, Secure Software Developer, Security Architect, Systems Engineer with SDLC experience, IT Project Manager with a focus on security
    Description
    The Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) by ISC² is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise in incorporating security practices into each phase of the software development lifecycle (SDLC). It covers security compliance, risk management, and vulnerability testing to ensure software is built to be secure from the ground up. Ideal for software developers, engineers, and security professionals, the CSSLP demonstrates a commitment to security in software design, development, deployment, and maintenance.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    100-150 hours
    Price
    $599
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of four years of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) in one or more of the eight domains of the CSSLP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge).
  • Alternatively, if you have a four-year college degree or equivalent in computer science, information technology, or a related field, it can substitute for one year of the required experience.
  • Candidates without the required experience can take the CSSLP exam to become an Associate of (ISC)², then gain the needed experience to become fully certified.
  • Endorsement by another (ISC)² certified professional in good standing is required after passing the exam to validate professional experience.
  • Agree to adhere to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics.
  • Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits are required for maintaining the certification: 90 CPE credits within a three-year cycle and a minimum of 30 CPE credits each year.

    • Zend Certified PHP Engineer

    Certification Provider
    Zend by Perforce
    Best For
    PHP Developer, Web Developer, Full Stack Developer, Software Engineer with PHP focus, Backend Developer, Technical Lead with PHP expertise
    Description
    The Zend Certified PHP Engineer is a globally recognized certification provided by Zend by Perforce, designed for proficient PHP developers. It validates an individual's expertise in PHP language and its associated technologies. The certification covers a wide range of topics, including PHP basics, object-oriented programming, security, databases, and arrays. Candidates are tested on their ability to solve problems, write code efficiently, and understand PHP at an advanced level. Achieving this certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and distinguishes developers in the competitive tech industry.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $195
    Prerequisites
  • Good understanding of PHP and web programming
  • Experience in developing PHP applications
  • Familiarity with all topics in the PHP certification curriculum
  • No formal education or degree requirements
  • No specific work experience requirements, but practical experience is highly beneficial
  • Payment of the examination fee

    • AWS Certified Developer – Associate

    Certification Provider
    Amazon Web Services (AWS)
    Best For
    Software Developers, Cloud Application Developers, AWS Cloud Engineers, Full Stack Developers, DevOps Engineers, Backend Developers with cloud experience
    Description
    The AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification validates technical expertise in developing and maintaining applications on the Amazon Web Services platform. Aimed at individuals with one or more years of hands-on experience, it covers core AWS services, uses, and basic AWS architecture best practices. Candidates will demonstrate their ability to design, deploy, and debug cloud-based applications using AWS, ensuring a strong foundation for building secure and reliable cloud solutions.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    80-120 hours
    Price
    $150
    Prerequisites
  • At least one year of hands-on experience in developing and maintaining AWS-based applications
  • Proficiency in at least one high-level programming language
  • Understanding of core AWS services, uses, and basic AWS architecture best practices
  • Ability to write code for serverless applications using AWS services
  • Experience with the AWS CLI, AWS APIs, AWS CloudFormation templates, the AWS Billing Console, and the AWS Management Console
  • Knowledge of the application lifecycle management, and ability to use a CI/CD pipeline to deploy applications on AWS

    • Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD)

    Certification Provider
    The Linux Foundation
    Best For
    Software Developers, DevOps Engineers, Application Developers, Cloud Engineers, Kubernetes Operators, Full Stack Developers
    Description
    The Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD) program, offered by The Linux Foundation, validates a professional's expertise in designing, building, configuring, and exposing cloud-native applications for Kubernetes. This certification focuses on practical skills required to run applications on Kubernetes as part of a DevOps team, including defining application resources, understanding the core principles of Kubernetes, and utilizing basic primitives to build, monitor, and troubleshoot scalable applications and tools within Kubernetes.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    20-30 hours
    Price
    $375
    Prerequisites
  • Understanding of basic Kubernetes concepts and architecture
  • Experience with container operations, preferably Docker
  • Familiarity with command-line tools and scripting
  • Knowledge of YAML and JSON file formats
  • Basic understanding of Cloud Native application concepts and architectures
  • Completion of a Kubernetes training course is recommended but not required

    • Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

    Certification Provider
    Microsoft
    Best For
    Azure Developer, Cloud Developer, Software Engineer with Azure experience, Full Stack Developer with cloud focus, DevOps Engineer with development background, Application Developer with cloud projects
    Description
    The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification validates a professional's expertise in designing, building, testing, and maintaining cloud applications and services on Microsoft Azure. Aimed at developers with at least one year of experience, this certification requires proficiency in Azure SDKs, data storage options, data connections, APIs, app authentication and authorization, compute and container deployment, debugging, performance tuning, and monitoring. Candidates must pass the Exam AZ-204 to earn this credential, demonstrating their ability to contribute to all phases of cloud development.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    80-120 hours
    Price
    $165
    Prerequisites
  • At least one year of professional development experience.
  • Proficiency in a programming language supported by Azure.
  • Experience with Azure SDKs, Azure PowerShell, Azure CLI, data storage options, and data connections.
  • Knowledge of APIs, app authentication, and authorization services.
  • Understanding of compute and container deployment, debugging, performance tuning, and monitoring in Azure.
  • Passing the Exam AZ-204: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure.

    • Certified Node.js Developer (JSNAD)

    Certification Provider
    OpenJS Foundation
    Best For
    Backend Developer, Full Stack Developer, JavaScript Developer, Node.js Engineer, Software Developer with JavaScript experience, Web Developer with server-side expertise
    Description
    The Certified Node.js Developer (JSNAD) is a professional credential offered by the OpenJS Foundation, designed to validate the skills of Node.js developers. This certification focuses on the core concepts of Node.js, including Node.js CLI and NPM, asynchronous programming, use of buffers and streams, and error handling. Candidates are tested through a hands-on, performance-based exam that requires solving real-world problems in a command-line environment, ensuring that certified individuals are proficient in writing, testing, and debugging Node.js applications.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    $300
    Prerequisites
  • Basic understanding of JavaScript and ES6 features.
  • Familiarity with Node.js core modules and npm (Node Package Manager).
  • Experience with asynchronous programming and promises.
  • Knowledge of error handling and debugging in Node.js.
  • Ability to write unit tests for Node.js applications.
  • No formal education or degree requirements, but prior programming experience is recommended.

    • AWS Certified Developer – Associate

    Certification Provider
    Amazon Web Services (AWS)
    Best For
    Software Developers, Cloud Application Developers, AWS Solutions Architects with development focus, DevOps Engineers, Full Stack Developers, Software Engineers with cloud experience
    Description
    The AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification validates an individual's proficiency in developing and maintaining applications on the Amazon Web Services platform. It focuses on core AWS services, best practices, and the basics of AWS architecture. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to write code that optimizes AWS application performance and to understand the AWS SDKs. This certification is ideal for software developers with one or more years of experience designing and maintaining an AWS-based application.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    80 hours
    Price
    $150
    Prerequisites
  • In-depth knowledge of at least one high-level programming language.
  • Minimum of one year of hands-on experience in designing and maintaining AWS-based applications.
  • Understanding of core AWS services, uses, and basic AWS architecture best practices.
  • Ability to identify and define requirements for an AWS-based application.
  • Experience with deploying, managing, and operating scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS.
  • Proficiency in developing, deploying, and debugging cloud-based applications using AWS.

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    Benefits of Having a Backend Developer Certification

    Validation of Technical Expertise: A Backend Developer certification is a formal recognition of your technical skills and knowledge in server-side development. It demonstrates to employers that you have undergone rigorous training and assessment, validating your proficiency in backend languages, frameworks, and databases. This certification can set you apart from the competition, showcasing your dedication to mastering the technical aspects of your role.

    Comprehensive Understanding of Backend Systems: Certification programs often cover a wide range of topics, from RESTful APIs to cloud services and data security. By earning a certification, you gain a holistic understanding of backend systems, which is crucial for developing scalable, efficient, and secure applications. This comprehensive knowledge base enables you to tackle complex backend challenges with confidence.

    Enhanced Career Prospects: In the competitive field of backend development, a certification can be a significant asset. It can enhance your resume, making you more attractive to potential employers and may lead to better job positions, higher salaries, and more opportunities for career advancement. For freelancers and consultants, it can help in winning contracts and gaining the trust of new clients.

    Access to Professional Networks: Many certification programs are associated with professional bodies and communities. As a certified backend developer, you can tap into these networks for support, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Networking with other professionals can lead to new job leads, mentorship opportunities, and the exchange of innovative ideas.

    Commitment to Continued Learning: The technology landscape is constantly evolving, and a certification shows your commitment to keeping your skills up-to-date. It reflects a mindset of continuous improvement and lifelong learning, which is highly valued in the tech industry. By staying current, you ensure that you can adapt to new technologies and methodologies, maintaining your relevance in the field.

    Boosted Professional Confidence: Achieving a backend developer certification is a challenging process that requires dedication and hard work. Successfully earning this credential can significantly boost your confidence in your abilities. It reassures both you and your employers that you possess the competence to build and maintain robust backend solutions, empowering you to take on more ambitious projects with assurance.

    How to Choose the Best Backend Developer Certification

    Choosing the right certification as a Backend Developer is a strategic step that can significantly enhance your technical prowess and marketability in a competitive field. In the realm of server-side development, where the landscape is continuously evolving with new languages, frameworks, and technologies, a well-chosen certification can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. This section provides targeted advice to help you sift through the myriad of options and select a certification that not only aligns with your current expertise but also paves the way for future career advancements.
    • Assess Specialization and Technology Stack: Evaluate certifications based on the specific backend technologies or programming languages you want to specialize in. Whether it's Node.js, Python, Ruby on Rails, or Java, choose a certification that deepens your expertise in the technology stack prevalent in your desired industry or job role.
    • Industry Demand and Job Market Compatibility: Research the certifications that are in high demand by employers in your target job market. Look for certifications that have a strong reputation for equipping developers with the skills that are currently sought after, such as cloud computing expertise with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
    • Comprehensive Curriculum and Skill Development: Opt for certifications that offer a comprehensive curriculum covering not just theoretical knowledge but also practical skills. Prioritize programs that include hands-on projects, real-world scenarios, and problem-solving that will directly enhance your capabilities as a backend developer.
    • Professional Growth and Advancement: Consider how a certification can contribute to your professional development. If you're eyeing senior or leadership positions, look for certifications that include elements of architecture design, system scaling, or DevOps practices that can broaden your skill set beyond coding.
    • Community and Continuing Education: Choose a certification from an organization that provides a strong professional community and opportunities for continuing education. This can be invaluable for staying updated with the latest backend development trends and maintaining the relevance of your skills over time.

    Preparing for Your Backend Developer Certification

    Achieving a certification as a Backend Developer is a significant step towards advancing your career and validating your technical skills. It's an investment in your future that demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and your expertise in creating robust, scalable server-side applications. To maximize the benefits of this endeavor, a thoughtful and deliberate preparation strategy is essential. This will not only help you succeed in passing the certification exam but also ensure that you can effectively implement your knowledge in a real-world setting.

    Understand the Certification Landscape: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the various certifications available for Backend Developers. Understand the differences between them, such as whether they focus on a specific programming language, framework, or cover a more general set of backend development skills. Knowing the scope and requirements of each certification will help you choose one that aligns with your career aspirations and technical interests.

    Assess Your Current Skill Level: Take an honest assessment of your current skills and knowledge. Identify any gaps that you may need to fill to meet the certification requirements. This self-assessment will help you focus your preparation on areas that need the most attention, ensuring a more efficient study process.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Guide: Once you've chosen a certification and assessed your skills, create a detailed study guide that encompasses all the topics covered in the certification's syllabus. Organize the topics into a logical sequence and set a realistic timeline for tackling each section. This structured approach will help you systematically work through the material and track your progress.

    Combine Theory with Practice: While theoretical knowledge is important, the ability to apply that knowledge is what truly sets apart a skilled Backend Developer. Incorporate practical exercises, coding projects, and real-world scenarios into your study plan. Engage with open-source projects or contribute to company initiatives that allow you to practice the skills you're learning. This hands-on experience will reinforce your understanding and give you confidence in your abilities.

    Leverage Online Resources and Communities: Take advantage of the wealth of online resources available, including documentation, tutorials, forums, and discussion groups. Engaging with the backend development community can provide you with support, insights, and resources that can enhance your learning experience. Participating in code reviews and discussions can also expose you to best practices and new perspectives.

    Mock Exams and Feedback: Practice makes perfect, and this is especially true when preparing for a certification exam. Utilize mock exams to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions you'll encounter. After each practice test, review your answers, especially the incorrect ones, to understand your mistakes. Seek feedback from mentors or peers who can provide constructive criticism and guidance.

    Stay Updated and Agile: The field of backend development is constantly evolving, with new technologies and methodologies emerging regularly. Stay informed

    Certification FAQs for Backend Developers

    Is getting a Backend Developer certification worth it?

    The worth of a Backend Developer certification is contingent on your experience level and career objectives. For novices, it can be a valuable asset, offering a structured learning path and validating technical skills for potential employers. For seasoned developers, certifications can serve to showcase proficiency in new technologies or methodologies, reflecting a dedication to staying current in a rapidly evolving field.

    However, practical experience and a portfolio of work often carry more weight in the tech industry. Certifications can complement these elements, potentially giving you an edge in a competitive job market, but they are rarely a substitute for hands-on expertise and demonstrable coding skills.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Backend Developer?

    Certifications are not strictly necessary to land a job as a Backend Developer, but they can be beneficial. They serve as a testament to your technical skills and understanding of specific technologies or methodologies. For those new to the industry or shifting from another IT specialty, certifications can help bridge the gap and demonstrate commitment to the field.

    However, practical coding experience, a robust portfolio, and familiarity with backend frameworks often carry more weight in the hiring process. Employers typically look for a proven ability to build and maintain functional, scalable server-side applications. In essence, while certifications can bolster a resume, hands-on experience and the ability to solve real-world problems are paramount.

    Can Backend Developer certifications help pivoters make the transition into Dev & Engineering from another career path?

    Yes, Backend Developer certifications can be a significant asset for those transitioning from a different career. They offer structured learning on key programming languages, databases, and server-side frameworks, equipping career changers with the technical skills required for backend development roles. Certifications can validate your expertise to employers, showcasing your dedication to mastering a new domain. Additionally, they often include practical projects that help build a portfolio, which is crucial for demonstrating your capabilities to hiring managers in the absence of direct experience.
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