Certifications for Computer Systems Analysts: Which Ones are Worth Pursuing?

Every year, computer systems analysts become ever-more important to businesses and enterprises. Consequently, the job market for analysts has become increasingly competitive, with more and more people vying for the same positions. In order to stand out from the rest of the field, computer systems analysts have had to look for ways to prove their abilities on a higher level. One of these is through certifications – these qualifications are becoming increasingly common in the industry.


Certifications for computer systems analysts can help shape your career path and even increase your salaries. With so many certifications available, however, it can be difficult to decide which ones are worth pursuing. In this blog post, we will explore the various certifications that are available to computer systems analysts, and how to assess which ones are worth it.


What Certifications Are Available to Computer Systems Analysts?

The range of certifications that are available to computer systems analysts depends largely on the area of expertise they wish to pursue. Generally speaking, however, the most popular areas include: software engineering, project management, system administration, security engineering, user experience design, data engineering, network engineering, cloud computing and DevOps. Each of these areas come with its own set of specialized certifications that can offer an additional edge to your CV. Let’s take a closer look at some of them:

Software Engineering

The Certified Software Engineering Professional (CSEP) credential is widely recognized within the software engineering industry. It is an internationally-recognized certification program designed to evaluate the technical skills, knowledge and experience of certified software engineers. The exam is split into four parts – Design & Implementation, Security & Quality, Requirements & Governance, and Project & Process Analysis – and requires a minimum of three years of professional software engineering experience in order to qualify. Becoming a CSEP demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the principles of software engineering.

Project Management

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is one of the most sought-after credentials in the Project Management industry. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to individuals who demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage projects. Earning the PMP designation proves your ability to lead and direct project teams, as well as manage resources, budgets and schedules. To qualify, you must demonstrate a minimum of 3,500 hours of professional project management experience and seven project management education hours.

System Administration

The LPI Certified System Administrator (LPIC-SA) credential is designed for Linux professionals who wish to demonstrate their expertise in the field. The LPIC-SA is a vendor-neutral certification that tests a candidate’s knowledge and ability to work with the Linux operating system. To qualify, you must pass two exams which cover topics related to system installation and configuration, system maintenance, network and security administration, storage, virtualization and troubleshooting.

Security Engineering

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential is an internationally-recognized certification that is issued by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed for information security professionals who wish to demonstrate their expertise in the field. To qualify for the CISM certification, you must demonstrate a minimum of five years of professional experience in information security administration, management and/or assurance roles. The exam consists of four parts – Information Security Governance, Risk Management, Program Development and Program Management.

User Experience Design

The User Experience (UX) certification is a great choice for computer systems analysts who specialize in user experience design. This certification is offered by the Nielsen Norman Group and requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in UX design. It is split into two parts – Usability Basics and Design Process, and covers topics such as user research and testing, interaction design, information architecture and visual design. This certification is ideal for UX designers who want to show their proficiency in the profession.

Data Engineering

The Data Engineer certification is another excellent choice for computer systems analysts who specialize in data engineering. This certificate is offered by the Association of Data Engineers (ADE), and recognizes professionals who demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to work with data. To qualify, you must demonstrate a minimum of five years of professional experience in data engineering roles. The exam consists of four parts – Architecture, Design, Delivery and Operations, and covers topics such as data modeling, database design, big data analysis, Hadoop and SQL.

Network Engineering

The Certified Network Engineer (CNE) credential is the industry-standard qualification for network engineers. This certification is offered by the International Association of Network Engineers (IANE), and recognizes professionals who demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully design, install, configure and maintain complex network systems. To qualify for the CNE certification, you must pass an exam that tests your understanding of topics such as routing, switching, network security and troubleshooting.

Cloud Computing

The Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect is the most popular certification for those who specialize in cloud computing. It is offered by Amazon Web Services and recognizes individuals who demonstrate the ability to design, deploy and operate applications on the AWS platform. To qualify, you must demonstrate a minimum of one year of professional experience in designing and operating complex distributed systems. The exam consists of two parts – Theory and Hands-On, and covers topics such as AWS architecture, scalability, availability and security.

DevOps

The DevOps certification is one of the most sought-after credentials for those who specialize in automated systems and processes. This certification is offered by the DevOps Institute and requires a minimum of one year of professional experience in DevOps roles. The exam tests your understanding of topics such as continuous delivery, automation and configuration management. This certification is ideal for DevOps professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles of DevOps.

How to Assess Which Certifications are Worth Pursuing

Now that you know about the various certifications that are available to computer systems analysts, let’s take a look at how to assess which ones are worth pursuing. Before you make any decisions, it is important to consider the following factors:

Your Career Goals

The first thing you should consider when deciding which certifications are worth pursuing is your career goals. Ask yourself, what are the most important skills and knowledge that will help you reach those goals? Once you have identified these, you can narrow down the list of certifications that are available and focus on those which will give you the best chance to reach your desired objectives.

Industry Demand

Another important factor to consider is the current demand in the industry. Employers will often look for certifications that demonstrate a certain level of expertise that is currently in demand. It is worth doing some research to find out which certifications are currently in high demand in the field.

Cost vs Value

It is also important to take into account the cost of the certification. How much time and money will it take you to complete the course and sit the exam? Will the investment be worth it in terms of future salaries or career opportunities? Be sure to weigh up the cost versus the value before you decide to pursue any certifications.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, certifications for computer systems analysts can be a great way to increase your employability and prove your abilities on a higher level. There are a wide range of certifications available, so it is important to assess which ones are worth it before committing to anything. Consider your career goals, industry demand, and the cost versus value before making your decision.