Top 10 Database Certifications For Your Career in 2024

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Database certifications are valuable credentials that allow you to demonstrate specialized knowledge of vendor-specific and open source databases, as well as continuously develop your professional careers. A database certification can give a user the ability to use skills relevant to database jobs, including how to perform queries, SQL statements, create databases, and run stored procedures on DB2, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and Netezza, to name a few.

Top 10 Database Certifications

These are 10 of the top database certifications you can earn right now, along with the different skills they signal to a recruiter or interviewer.

1. Microsoft DP-300 Exam (Administering Relational Databases On Microsoft Azure)

Best For Cloud

The Microsoft DP-300 exam is a baseline accreditation designed to teach the fundamentals of database knowledge. This course is intended to train students in how to use Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing service and culminates in the Microsoft DP-300 exam.

A practice assessment for Microsoft’s DP-300 exam. Source: Microsoft

Why We Picked It

Designed for professionals who manage on-premises and cloud databases, this exam validates subject matter expertise building database solutions designed for SQL Server and Azure SQL services. While there are limitless innovations for cloud-native applications, having this certification provides an edge for database administrators who want to master the implementation and management of cloud-native and hybrid data platform solutions.

Skills Acquired

The Microsoft DP-300 Exam: Administering Relational Databases on Microsoft Azure will teach about Microsoft Azure, as well as how to do the following:

• Plan and implement resources
• Implement a safe database environment
• Monitor, configure, and optimize database resources
• Configure and manage automation of tasks
• Plan and configure a high availability and disaster recovery (HA/DR) environment

Requirements

There are no prerequisites for the DP-300 exam, but the Azure Fundamentals certification recommends baseline knowledge that will make the exam easier.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: Two hours, 40-60 questions

Location: The exam can be taken at a remote location or a testing center.

Cost: $165

Practice tests are available on Microsoft’s website, or you can check out this practice exam.

2. Google Cloud’s Professional Data Engineer

Best For Machine Learning

Google Cloud’s Professional Data Engineers build systems that allow users to make data-driven decisions by collecting, transforming, and publishing data. Google Cloud’s Professional Data Engineer certification qualifies you to leverage, deploy, and continuously train pre-existing machine learning models.

Why We Picked It

Google Cloud’s certifications don’t just validate your skills in the latest cloud technologies and machine learning—they also help you advance professionally with benefits such as digital badges, exclusive tools, and network building through the Google Cloud Certified Community. Users can also follow the Machine Learning Engineering learning path to prepare for the exam through online training, in-person classes, hands-on labs, and a wealth of learning resources.

Skills Acquired

The Google Cloud’s certification will teach many skills to whoever completes it, including:

• Design data processing systems
• Ensure solution quality
• Operationalize machine learning models
• Build and operationalize data processing systems

Requirements

There are no prerequisites, but Google Cloud recommends three years of industry experience and one year of using Google Cloud.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: Two hours

Location: The online-proctored exam can be taken from a remote location, or the onsite-proctored exam can be taken at a testing center.

Cost: $200

Google Cloud’s Professional Data Engineer also has a certification guide.

3. MongoDB Database Administrator

Best For Beginners

MongoDB is often the go-to database choice for teams that need a NoSQL or non-relational database. It’s not the most commonly used database, but it’s employed frequently enough that a MongoDB certification can make a database administrator’s skills  stand out.

Why We Picked It

MongoDB offers MongoDB Developer and MongoDB Database Administrators, which are platform-specific certifications relevant for database professionals. These certifications help beginners learn the basics of building, supporting, and securing a MongoDB database, as well as collaborating with a large number of teams. Users who support rapid iterative developments and have plans to scale their data repositories would find these certifications valuable.

Skills Acquired

The certification will teach many skills to beginners in the field. This includes:

• Covering fundamentals in server and database administration
• Basic JavaScript
• Data system programming
• Database software development
• Shows the unique advantages of MongoDB

Requirements

The Database Administrator course has no prerequisites.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: 90 minutes, 60 questions

Location: A user can take the online-proctored exam.

Cost: $150

Try out this practice test to prepare for the DBA exam.

4. Meta Database Engineer Professional Certificate

Best For Applications

Meta Database Engineer Professional Certification will give students the key skills required to create and manage databases using industry-standard programming languages. It will also certify them on the use of software such as SQL, Python, and Django used to support outstanding websites and apps like Facebook, Instagram, and more.

Why We Picked It

Database professionals who are interested in becoming data engineers would find this certificate indispensable with its in-depth courses, real-world projects, and affordable pricing. Its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on approach offer a strong foundation in SQL and Python syntax, which are the backbones of modern database engineering. You can also learn how to build databases from scratch, a valuable skill for professionals venturing into this field.

Skills Acquired

The Meta certification will teach the following:

• Demonstrating proficiency in SQL syntax
• Learn to interact with a database
• Create databases
• Learn how to add, manage, and optimize databases
• Write database-driven applications in Python
• Develop knowledge of advanced data modeling concepts

Requirements

There are no requirements.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: Self-paced

Location: You can take the exam online.

Cost: From $49 per month

5. Oracle Certified Professional, Oracle Database 19c: Data Guard Administrator Certification

Best For Administrators

The Oracle Certified Professional, Oracle Database 19c: Data Guard Administrator certification is for database systems administrators with responsibility for disaster recovery. The certification challenges students on their knowledge and increases their value in the marketplace.

Why We Picked It

WIth this certification, administrators will gain skills and in-depth knowledge on Oracle Data Guard concepts, configuration, management, optimization and monitoring, data protection, high availability (HA) solutions, and disaster recovery. Passing this exam certifies that you have the capacity to create an HA or disaster recovery solution for an Oracle Database ecosystem, showing your advanced database skills and increasing your value in the marketplace.

Skills Acquired

The certification teaches the following skills:

• Knowledge of Oracle Data Guard concepts
• Database configuration
• Database management
• Database optimization and monitoring
• Data protection
• Disaster recovery

Requirements

You’ll need to complete one of several Oracle Database courses and have four to five years of Database Administration as well as two to three years of Data Guard experience.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: Two hours

Location: The exam can be taken online or at a Pearson VUE testing center.

Cost: $245

Learn more about database administrators and their work by reading our Guide to Database Management.

6. EnterpriseDB’s Postgres Certification Program

Best For Postgres

Since Postgres is open source, there are no certificates available directly from the PostgreSQL development team. The only option for a Postgres certificate is this third-party certification program offered by EnterpriseDB.

Why We Picked It

EnterpriseDB training is delivered by Postgres experts who have hands-on and real-world experience managing databases. Possessing a certification from EDB affirms your Postgres skills, giving you an edge in today’s competitive enterprise environment. EDB Postgres also offers world-class training that suits your needs, whether it is on-demand (self-paced eLearning), classroom, role-based, live online, or customized training.

Skills Acquired

The certification will teach the following skills:

• Basics of database administration
• The specifics of working with Postgres
• Benchmarking and replication
• Management of high-availability systems

Requirements

There are no prerequisites for the associate certificate. The professional certification requires the completion of the associate exam and Advanced PostgreSQL course.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: One hour

Location: The exam is conducted online.

Cost: $200

7. IBM Certified Administrator – Db2 12 For Z/OS

Best For Advanced Users

An IBM Certified Administrator on IBM Db2 12 for z/OS is the lead database administrator for the Db2 product on the z/OS operating system. Completing the certification shows you are capable of performing intermediate to advanced tasks related to database design and implementation.

Why We Picked It

This certification is beneficial for users who are capable of performing intermediate to advanced tasks for a lead database administrator position. It affirms that the successful candidate has significant experience as an administrator and has extensive knowledge of Db2, up to and including Db2 12 for z/OS Function Level 506. Possessing this certification shows that you have the essential skills for planning, installing, and securing DB2 for z/OS environments.

Skills Acquired

The certification will teach the following skills:

• Database design and implementation
• Operation and recovery
• Security and auditing
• Installation and migration
• Additional database functionality

Requirements

You are required to have passed Exam C1000-078: IBM Db2 12 for z/OS Administrator to qualify for this certification.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: 90 minutes, 60 questions

Location: The exam is conducted online.

Cost: $200

Learn more about the current and future landscape for professionals working in the field of database administration: 5 Trends in the Database Job Market.

8. SAP Certified Application Associate, Reporting, Modeling, And Data Acquisition With SAP BW/4HANA 2.X

Best For SAP HANA

SAP certification can be valuable for professionals working in this area—the company offers a wide variety of credentials, but only two are directly relevant to SAP HANA.

Why We Picked It

Receiving a certification from SAP validates that you possess the fundamental knowledge and necessary skills required for modeling, data acquisition, and query design with SAP BW/4HANA. This certification proves you have an overall understanding of and technical skills in SAP HANA, which can help you land a role in a project team or other entry-level positions relevant to this field.

Skills Acquired

The SAP Certified Application Associate certification will teach the following skills:

• Database modeling
• Data acquisition
• Query design with SAP HANA

Requirements

There are no prerequisites for the exam.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: 180 minutes, 80 questions

Location: The exam is conducted online.

Cost: $217 for one attempt; $543 for six attempts

9. Teradata Vantage Administrator Exam

Best For SQL

Teradata offers this course and exam for Vantage database administrators (DBAs).

Why We Picked It

Teradata is a leading data analytics platform offering premier certifications for IT professionals. Successful completion of the exam establishes that you possess the skills and knowledge of a Vantage Administrator relevant to monitoring, performance and database management, user administration, and more. It also validates that you are an expert on SQL fundamentals, including extensions to ANSI/ISO SQL, SQL data definition, and data handling.

Skills Acquired

The certification will teach the following skills:

• Advanced SQL Engine
• Database administration
• Performance management
• Security and system logging
• Workload management

Requirements

There are no prerequisites for the course or exam. However, Teradata recommends one to three years of hands-on experience with Vantage, two to three years of Vantage Administration experience, and at least one year of Vantage Administration on the cloud.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: 105 minutes

Location: The test can be taken remotely or at a Pearson VUE testing location.

Cost: $299

Check out this practice exam on the comprehensive SQL course on Teradata.

10. Certified Data Professional (CDP)

Best For Variety 

The CDP is an update of the Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP). This applicable credential from The Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) allows you to specialize in an area of interest within the data field.

Why We Picked It

The ICCP is an established organization staying up to date with current subject matter experts in the data management and computing industries. Its CDP certification uses the latest industry scenario questions, ensuring that your knowledge and professional competency are evaluated properly. Data professionals can specialize in several areas; ICCP offers certifications for various fields that can be provided at five levels, from Foundation to Executive.

Skills Acquired

The CDP certification will teach the following skills:

• Business analytics
• Data governance
• Data integration
• Data management
• Data and information quality
• Data warehousing
• IT management

Requirements

Depending on the level of certification, you may need up to five years of experience in the field.

Duration, Location, And Cost

Length of Exam: 90 minutes

Location: The test can be taken remotely or at a Pearson VUE testing location.

Cost: From $250 to $4,500.

Read about Database Trends to learn more about the future of database administration.

Is a Database Certification Worth The Investment?

Database administrators and professionals can earn various certifications throughout their careers. While some of these credentials are optional, certification programs can help in developing skills and advancing your career.

If you work in the IT industry—specifically database management—a certification can enhance your credibility and offer more job opportunities, making it a potentially profitable investment. A database certification is likely worth the investment in the following cases.

Employers Require Database Certifications

Evaluate the job market and determine which certifications are in demand, including cost, training fees, materials, types of examination, and prerequisites.

Credentials Can Boost Your Salary and Career

Weigh the cost and time you’ll spend getting the certification against the potential career advancement and salary increase.

It Offers Theoretical and Practical Knowledge

Certifications that provide the right balance of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience through internships, practical exams, and special projects will offer good value for your time and money.

You’re Planning to Specialize in a Specific Field or Industry

When considering a certification, assess your long-term career goals and find a learning path that will provide a solid foundation to help you master your chosen database management system.

The Curriculum Fits Your Learning Style and Commitment

Your certification’s learning path should match your own learning style and the time you’re willing to spend preparing for exams. A good certification program also offers different modes of learning, such as online, in-person, or hybrid.

Deciding to pursue a database certification depends on your industry demand, your long-term career goals, resources, and motivation. Before spending time and money on a certification program, conduct your own research, talk to professionals in your field, and assess the pros and cons of signing up for a course or examination.

How To Choose The Right Database Certification

Finding the right database certification can be a challenging task, especially if you’re spending a huge amount of time and resources. Here are several things to consider when choosing a database certification program:

• Reflect on your career goals and narrow down certification courses or programs that align with your objectives.
• Research what’s in high demand in the job market and find certifications applicable to your specific job and industry.
• If you’re looking into a specialization, decide on a learning path and find a program that will help you become an expert in your field.
• Consider the entire cost, including exam fees, training costs, and learning materials you’d have to purchase while preparing for your exams.
• Assess the resources available to you, including finances, time, and commitment; you might be taking database courses while working full-time.
• Review the eligibility requirements and prerequisites (if any), as well as the possible exam format, content, duration, and location.
• If possible, Sign up for practice tests or mock exams to check if you’re comfortable with the exam format.
• Read reviews or join community forums to learn what other database professionals think of a certification, curriculum, or learning provider.
• Seek advice from IT professionals and database management experts, or consult a career coach to help you decide on a certification program to take.

Database professionals are in high demand right now, particularly those familiar with multiple databases. One or more certifications can help DBAs or students demonstrate their experience and stand out from other candidates.If you’re planning to apply for career opportunities post-certification, see our list of the top companies hiring for database jobs to find the best employers in this field.

Bottom Line: Choosing a Database Certification

A database certification is a great add-on to a resume that lets you improve your skills and continue to develop professionally. Before deciding on which certification program to take, use our list to assess which certifications fit your career goals, consult other database professionals, or sign up for free courses to gauge your knowledge.

If you’d like to complement your certification with practical skills, see our review of the top database management software and tools.