- Database technology is crucial in multiple applications and computing tasks, and certifications help demonstrate job readiness and core competencies.
- Before pursuing a database platform certification, you should have a solid background in relational database management systems and the SQL language.
- Valuable certifications are typically tied to specific technology companies and their platforms, such as IBM, Microsoft, Oracle and SAP.
- This article is for IT professionals considering database certifications to further their careers.
While database platforms have come and gone through the decades, database technology is still critical for multiple applications and computing tasks. IT professionals often seek database certifications to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise as they navigate their career paths and pursue professional growth.
While database certifications may not be as bleeding edge as Google cloud certifications, cybersecurity certifications, storage certifications or digital forensics certifications, database professionals at all levels possess in-demand career skills — and a plethora of database-related jobs are waiting to be filled.
We’ll look at some of the most in-demand certifications for database administrators, database developers and anyone else who works with databases.
What to know about database roles and certifications
To get a better grasp of available database certifications, it’s helpful to group these certs around job responsibilities. This reflects the maturity of database technology and its integration into most aspects of commercial, scientific and academic computing. As you read about the various database certification programs, keep these job roles in mind:
- Database administrator (DBA). A DBA is responsible for installing, configuring and maintaining a database management system (DBMS). The job is often tied to a specific platform, such as Oracle, MySQL, DB2 or SQL Server.
- Database developer. A database developer works with generic and proprietary application programming interfaces (APIs) to build applications that interact with a DBMS. Like DBA roles, database developer positions are also often platform-specific.
- Database designer or database architect. A database designer or architect researches data requirements for specific applications or users and designs database structures and application capabilities to match.
- Data analyst or data scientist. A data analyst or scientist is responsible for analyzing data from multiple disparate sources to discover previously hidden insights, determine the meaning behind data, and make business-specific recommendations.
- Data mining or business intelligence (BI) specialist. A data mining or BI specialist focuses on dissecting, analyzing and reporting important data streams, such as customer, supply chain and transaction data and histories.
- Data warehousing specialist. A data warehousing specialist assembles and analyzes data from multiple operational systems (such as orders, transactions, supply chain information and customer data) to establish data history, analyze trends, generate reports and forecasts, and support general ad hoc queries.
These database job roles highlight two critical issues to consider if you want to be a database professional:
- You need a solid general background. First, a background in relational database management systems, including an understanding of Structured Query Language (SQL), is a fundamental prerequisite for database professionals of all stripes.
- There’s a focus on proprietary technologies. Second, although various efforts to standardize database technology exist, much of the whiz-bang capability that databases and database applications deliver comes from proprietary, vendor-specific technologies. Serious, heavy-duty database skills and knowledge are tied to specific platforms, including various Oracle products (such as the open-source MySQL environment and Oracle itself,) Microsoft SQL Server and IBM DB2. Most of these certifications relate directly to those enormously popular platforms.
Did you know? NoSQL databases — called “not only SQL” or “non-relational” databases — are increasingly used in big data applications associated with some of the best big data certifications for data scientists, data mining and warehousing, and business intelligence.
Best database certifications
Here are details on our five best database certification picks for 2022.
1. IBM Certified Database Administrator — DB2 12
IBM is one of the leaders in the worldwide database market by any objective measure. The company’s database portfolio includes industry-standard DB2, as well as the following:
- IBM Compose
- Information Management System (IMS)
- Informix
- Cloudant
- IBM Open Platform with Apache Hadoop
IBM also has a long-standing and well-populated IT certification program that has been around for more than 30 years and encompasses hundreds of individual credentials.
After redesigning its certification programs and categories, IBM now has a primary data-centric certification category called IBM Data and AI. It includes a range of database credentials:
- Database Associate
- Database Administrator
- System Administrator
- Application Developer
IBM’s is a big and complex certification space, but one where particular platform allegiances are likely to guide readers toward the handful of items most relevant to their interests and needs.
Database professionals who support DB2 (or aspire to) on IBM’s z/OS should check out the IBM Associate Certified DBA — Db2 12 certification. It’s an entry-level test that addresses routine planning, working with SQL and XML, security, operations, data concurrency, application design, and concepts around database objects.
This certification requires candidates to pass one exam. Pre-exam training and familiarity with concepts, or hands-on experience, are recommended but not required.
IBM Certified Database Administrator — DB2 facts and figures
|
Certification name |
IBM Certified Database Administrator — Db2 12 (z/OS) |
|
Prerequisites and required courses |
None required; recommended courses are available. |
|
Number of exams |
One: C1000-122: Db2 12 for z/OS DBA Fundamentals (63 questions, 90 minutes) |
|
Cost per exam |
$200 (or local currency equivalent) per exam. Sign up for exams at Pearson VUE. |
|
URL |
|
|
Self-study materials |
The certification page includes self-study materials, including a study guide and a learning path. |
Did you know? IBM’s certification offerings are among the best system administrator certifications IT professionals can achieve.
2. Microsoft Azure
Microsoft Azure offers a broad range of tools and add-ons for business intelligence. Azure is a cloud computing platform for application management and Microsoft-managed data centers. Microsoft certifications include various Azure offerings based on job role and experience level.
Microsoft’s certification program is role-centric, centered on the skills you need to succeed in specific technology jobs. Because Azure has such a broad scope, Azure certifications span multiple job roles. However, specific certifications exist for the following positions:
- Data Analysts
- Data Engineers
- Data Scientists
- Database Administrators
There are also certifications for learners at different experience levels.
For those looking to take their Azure knowledge to the next level, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals certification is the perfect place to start. This certification is for beginner database administrators interested in using Azure and mastering data in the cloud. It offers foundational knowledge of core concepts while reinforcing concepts for later use in other Azure role-based certifications, such as those listed below:
- Azure Database Administrator Associate
- Azure Data Engineer Associate
- Data Analyst Associate
Azure Data Fundamentals certification facts and figures
|
Certification name |
|
|
Prerequisites and required courses |
This certification does not have any prerequisites. However, for absolute beginners, Microsoft offers an Azure Fundamentals certification. |
|
Number of exams |
One exam, DP-900, which is administered via Pearson VUE or Certiport. |
|
Cost per exam |
The test costs $99 in the United States, though the cost changes based on where it is proctored. |
|
URL |
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/certifications/exams/dp-900 |
|
Self-study materials |
Microsoft offers one of the world’s largest and best-known IT certification programs, so the test is well supported with books, study guides, study groups, practice questions and other materials. Microsoft also offers a free online learning path. |
3. Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator
Oracle runs its certifications under the auspices of Oracle University. The Oracle Database Certifications page lists separate tracks depending on job role and product. MySQL is perhaps the leading open-source relational database management system (RDBMS). Since acquiring Sun Microsystems in 2010 (which had previously acquired MySQL AB), Oracle has rolled out a paid version of MySQL and developed certifications to support the product.
If you’re interested in pursuing an Oracle MySQL certification, you can choose between MySQL Database Administration and MySQL Developer.
The Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator (OCP) credential recognizes professionals who can accomplish the following tasks:
- Install, optimize and monitor MySQL Server.
- Configure replication.
- Apply security.
- Schedule and validate database backups.
The certification requires candidates to pass a single test (the same test can be taken to upgrade a prior certification). Oracle recommends training and on-the-job experience before taking the exam.
Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator facts and figures
Did you know? According to Oracle, approximately 1.8 million Oracle Certified professionals globally hold certifications to advance their networking careers and professions to validate their IT expertise.
4. Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification
For individuals interested in working in the Oracle environment who have the necessary experience to become a database administrator, Oracle’s Database SQL Certified Associate Certification is another top Oracle certification and an excellent starting point. This test encompasses an understanding of fundamental SQL concepts that individuals must grasp for database projects.
By earning the certification, individuals demonstrate that they have a range of knowledge in core SQL concepts:
- Familiarity with queries, data modeling, and normalization
- Strong base understanding of the underlying SQL language
- An ability to create and manipulate Oracle Database tables
This certification also requires candidates to pass a single exam. While Oracle does not specify any prerequisites, the company does state candidates should have familiarity working with the command line.
Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification facts and figures
5. SAP HANA: SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA 2.0 SPS05
SAP SE has an extensive portfolio of business applications and analytics software, including cloud infrastructure, applications and storage. The SAP HANA platform’s foundation is an enterprise-grade relational database management system that can be run as an appliance on-premises or in the cloud. The cloud platform lets customers build and run applications and services based on SAP HANA.
SAP offers a comprehensive certification program built to support its various platforms and products. We’re featuring the SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA cert because it aligns closely with other certifications we’ve highlighted and is in high demand among employers, according to job board surveys.
This certification ensures database professionals can install, manage, monitor, migrate and troubleshoot SAP HANA systems. It covers the following skills:
- Managing users and authorizations
- Applying security
- Ensuring high availability
- Effective disaster-recovery techniques
SAP recommends that certification candidates get hands-on practice through formal training or on-the-job experience before attempting this exam. The SAP Learning Hub is a subscription service that gives certification candidates access to a library of learning materials, including e-learning courses and course handbooks.
The annual subscription rate for individual users on the Professional certification track is $2,760. This online training program is designed for those who run, support, or implement SAP software solutions. Though this may seem like a steep price for online training, you will likely be able to pass any SAP certification exams you put your mind to by leveraging all the learning resources available to SAP Learning Hub Professional subscribers.
Typically, SAP certifications achieved on one of the two most recent SAP solutions are considered current and valid. SAP contacts professionals whose certifications are nearing end-of-life status and provides information on maintaining their credentials.
SAP Certified Technology Associate facts and figures
|
Certification name |
SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA 2.0 SPS05 |
|
Prerequisites and required courses |
None required. Recommended: Hands-on experience and the following courses:
|
|
Number of exams |
One exam: SAP Certified Technology Associate — SAP HANA 2.0 SPS05, test code C_HANATEC_17 (80 questions, 180 minutes) |
|
Cost per exam |
$500 |
|
URL |
|
|
Self-study materials |
The certification web page includes a link to trial questions. SAP HANA trade books and certification guides are available on Amazon. The SAP Help Center offers product documentation and a training and certification FAQs page. The SAP Learning Hub (available on a subscription basis) provides access to online learning content. |
Tip: To broaden your skill set, consider pursuing the best sales certifications to better sell and implement various IT solutions, including databases.
Beyond the top 5 database certifications
Additional database certification programs can further the careers of IT professionals who work with database management systems.
While most colleges with computer science programs offer database tracks at the undergraduate, master and Ph.D. levels, well-known vendor-neutral database certifications exist, including the following:
- ICCP certifications. The Institute for the Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) offers its unique Certified Data Professional and Certified Data Scientist credentials. Learn more about ICCP certifications from the ICCP website.
- Enterprise DB certifications. EnterpriseDB administers a small but effective certification program with two primary certs: the EDB Certified Associate and the EDB Certified Professional.
These are some additional certifications:
These credentials represent opportunities for database professionals to expand their skill sets — and salaries. However, such niches in the database certification arena are generally only worth pursuing if you already work with these platforms or plan to work for an organization that uses them.
Key takeaway: Pursuing additional database certifications can be helpful for professional development if you already work with these platforms or plan to work with them in the future.
Job board search results
Before pursuing certifications, consider their popularity with employers to gain a helpful perspective on current database certification demand. Here’s a job board snapshot to give you an idea of what’s trending.
|
Certification |
Indeed |
LinkedIn Jobs |
LinkUp |
Total |
|
|
IBM Certified Database Administrator — DB2 |
867 |
1,337 |
1,911 |
753 |
4,868 |
|
Azure Data Fundamentals |
2,052 |
4,154 |
283 |
2,322 |
8,811 |
|
Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL Database Administrator |
339 |
473 |
143 |
23 |
978 |
|
Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification |
138 |
177 |
10 |
273 |
598 |
|
SAP HANA |
32 |
37 |
57 |
466 |
592 |
If the sheer number of available database-related positions isn’t enough motivation to pursue a certification, consider average salaries for database administrators. SimplyHired reports $91,949 as the national average in the U.S., ranging from $64,171 to over $131,753. Glassdoor’s reported average is somewhat lower at $84,161, with a top rung for experienced senior DBAs right around $134,000.
Choosing the right certification
Choosing the best IT certifications to enhance your skills and boost your career can be overwhelming, especially as many available certifications are for proprietary technologies. While picking a database certification can feel like locking yourself into a single technology family, it is worth remembering that many database skills are transferable. Additionally, pursuing any certification shows your willingness to learn and demonstrates competence to current and future employers.
Ultimately, choosing which certification to pursue depends on the technologies you use at work or would like to use at a future employer.
Jeremy Bender contributed to the reporting and writing in this article.
Life insurance helps you provide for loved ones after your death. With life insurance policies, your beneficiaries get a cash payment when you're gone, one they can then use toward funeral expenses, unpaid bills or other expenses.
Most insurance companies require a medical exam before they approve you for life insurance coverage. You may be uncomfortable with this, or want to avoid it. Enter no-exam life insurance.
Many kinds of people may find no-exam life insurance appealing. No-exam policies can be smart if you have a pre-existing health condition, terminal illness, are a smoker or have a risky job (like fire fighting or construction).
Or, you may need life insurance as collateral for a loan or a sudden change in marital status like divorce. Seniors may bump up against age limits for some traditional kinds of policies and find no-medical test life insurance worthwhile.
If you think you would benefit from a no-exam life insurance policy then reach out to an insurance pro now. They can help you get started with a free price quote so you know exactly what to expect.
No medical test life insurance comes in both whole life and term life policy forms. Though there's no medical exam, each insurance type may ask for some health information on the application. Premiums are often more expensive than traditional life insurance policies that require medical exams. They can also provide significantly lower coverage. Guaranteed life policies, for instance, are often $25,000 in coverage or less.
Types of no-exam life insurance policies to know
The first step in getting no-medical test insurance is deciding what kind is right for you. Here are four main types
- Simplified issue: This insurance is often for people, including seniors, who are generally in good health but may have a few chronic health issues or medical conditions. The application typically includes a short health questionnaire.
- Guaranteed issue: These life insurance policies are aimed at older seniors or those who are in poor health. They don't require a medical test and ensure a comparatively small death benefit for your beneficiaries. A few medical questions may be required.
- Accelerated underwriting: Sometimes called "instant" life insurance, this type uses artificial intelligence to gather and analyze data in lieu of a physical exam. Insurers may seek information like prescription history, driving records or previous medical exams to determine risk and cost. You may also be asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire or do a phone interview. The method can cut approval time from days or weeks to hours.
- Group life insurance: If you're working, your employer may also offer group life insurance policies without requiring a medical exam, sometimes for free. The drawback? You likely lose coverage if you leave or lose your job.
If you think you would benefit from having a no-exam life insurance policy then reach out to a professional now or use the table below to start searching for providers.
Finding a provider for no-exam life insurance
Seek advice from an insurance agent, your financial adviser, or another expert before you apply in order to be certain that no-exam life insurance is the best option for you.
From there:
- Shop around for several quotes. Coverage and premiums can vary widely.
- If you are a veteran, check the U.S. Veterans Administration for lower-cost providers.
- If you are working, check to see if your employer is offering group life insurance.
- Consider whether a whole life or term life type of policy is right for your circumstances.
- Seek out customer reviews and complaints to review.
Filling out the application
Once you've decided on a no-exam life insurance provider, you'll need to fill out an application. Depending on the policy type, you can expect:
- Some basic questions, including those about your weight, date of birth, lifestyle habits such as smoking, drinking, recreational drug use, exercise and activities like extreme sports.
- Details of your health history and medication use (except with most guaranteed life insurance applications, which can be pricey).
- A request for financial information such as income and credit history.
- A request letter from your primary care doctor about your health.
Be honest with your answers. A life insurance company can deny coverage or payout if you aren't being truthful on your application, like if you lie about smoking.
Follow the instructions to submit your application. Once you've submitted, it can take just hours for accelerated underwriting approval to weeks depending on the type of no-exam policy you're seeking.
What Is a Testicular Exam?
A testicular test is a check of the look and feel of your testicles, to see if there may be any problems. You or your doctor can do it.
The testicles are part of a man’s sex organs. They’re in a pouch called the scrotum, located behind and below the penis. They make sperm and the male hormone testosterone.
Who Needs a Testicular test and How Often?
Every man should have a testicular exam. There is no recommendation that a testicular test should be part of your annual physical exam. But your doctor may suggest that you do a self-exam on a regular basis. Some doctors recommend checking your testicles once a month. Others say it's fine to have your doctor check once a year.
If you are having problems, or notice a lump or other changes in how your testicles feel or look, tell your doctor.
Exams can be a good way to find lumps that could be cancer or another problem.
How to Do a Testicular Exam
There’s no harm in a self-exam, and doctors say it’s good to know how your testicles look and feel so you can notice any changes.
A self-exam is quick and painless. It takes only a few simple steps:
- Take a warm shower or bath to allow the heat to relax the skin of your scrotum.
- Hold your penis out of the way.
- Examine one testicle at a time using both hands. Roll it between your thumb and fingers.
- Feel for a pea-sized lump. If you see or feel something like that, contact your doctor. It’s probably nothing to worry about, but it’s important you make note of it.
- Check for any changes in the size, shape, or feel of your testicles. One might be of a different shape or size than the other. That’s OK, but the shapes and sizes shouldn’t change. One might hang lower than the other. That’s normal, too.
Don’t worry if you feel a cordlike structure behind each testicle. It’s a normal part of the part of the scrotum that stores and moves sperm. It’s not a lump.
Is It Testicular Cancer?
If there is a suspicious lump, your doctor might run a painless ultrasound to get a better look for signs of cancer. They might do a blood test to see if there’s an indication of cancer. If the doctor thinks it may be cancerous, they may decide to do surgery to remove the testicle and check for cancer. If it is cancerous, they can determine what kind.
Removing one testicle shouldn’t impact your sex life or your fertility, but having testicular cancer or its treatment could impact fertility. If you think you may want to have children, talk to your doctor about preserving sperm before treatment.
Here are some facts to know about testicular cancer:
It’s rare: Your chance of getting it is about 1 in 250.
It most often affects men ages 15 to 34: It’s the most common cancer in this group.
It’s highly curable: The risk of dying from it is 1 in 5,000.
Early identification is key: It’s more likely to be treated and cured if it’s found early.
Some things increase your risk: Testicular cancer generally can’t be prevented, but some things increase risk. Your risk is higher if you’re white and non-Hispanic or have an undescended testicle or a family history of testicular cancer.
Other symptoms of testicular cancer
A lump is the most common symptom, but others include:
- Firm testicle
- Swelling or fluid buildup in the scrotum
- Feeling of scrotal heaviness
- Achiness in the lower belly, groin, or scrotum
- Breast tenderness or growth
- Pain or uncomfortable feelings in the testicle or scrotum
- Back pain
- Early puberty in boys
A lump or other symptom doesn’t mean you have cancer or any other problem.
The ISA Certified Automation Professional® (CAP®) certification is a mark of career excellence that affirms your commitment to quality and demonstrates your expertise and knowledge of automation and controls. ISA CAP certification provides you with a non-biased, third-party, objective assessment and confirmation of your skills and expertise as an automation professional.
Who Are CAPs?
CAP Certification Requirements
To become an ISA CAP, you must meet certain education and work experience requirements, pass an exam, and commit to the ISA Code of Conduct. Learn more about CAP requirements.
CAP Body of Knowledge
The CAP Body of Knowledge (BOK) encompasses the full scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for competent job performance. It defines automation project domains, the tasks within the domains, and the knowledge and skills required to complete the tasks. View the CAP Body of Knowledge.
How to Apply
There is no application form for CAP certification. The process involves confirming that you meet the following requirements and then taking an exam.
Requirements
Note: by paying the test fee, you are confirming that you are aware of, have met, and can document that you meet the requirements for the CAP certification.
Click the button below to add the test fee to your cart. After you complete your purchase and your payment has successfully processed, you will receive a payment confirmation email. Then, one month before your test window, you will receive an email with the test invitation and instructions for scheduling your exam.
Pay Cap test FeeAbout the Exam
You can take the CAP test online from your office or home if the testing environment meets the requirements and your computer meets specifications. You can also take the test at a Scantron test center. The CAP test has 150 multiple-choice questions and is four hours long. Learn more about Certification Exams and Testing.
How to Prepare
We highly recommend taking the Certified Automation Professional (CAP) test Review Course (EC00). ISA has also developed an extensive library of training courses, study guides and publications that are built around the technologies and syllabus covered on the CAP exam. These resources have been developed and reviewed by subject matter experts. Learn more about the review course and the additional resources here.
Reference to Standards and Codes
The aspects of automation covered on the CAP test reflect the tasks performed in the range of practice settings throughout the United States. Familiarity with the following standards and codes is recommended. get the Reference to Standards and Codes (PDF).
- ISA Standards
- IEEE Standards
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Codes and Federal Regulations
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standards
- US Food and Drug Administration Regulations
- American Petroleum Institute (API) Standards
For International applicants, note that the validation study for the exams was done in the United States, so there may be questions on the test that reference US standards and codes.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Project management can be a rewarding career. As a project manager, you’re responsible for planning and organizing crucial projects for your workplace. Even more importantly, you make sure everything’s on schedule for successful and on-time completion.
If you’re looking to dive deeper and learn more about the world of project management, you may want to consider getting certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP)®.
This important and widely recognized certification comes from the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification provides project managers with the tools they need to stay on the leading edge of business and project management. In this article, we break down the process and cost of PMP certification.
What Is PMP Certification?
PMP certification is a widely recognized credential that distinguishes you from your peers in the field. The PMP certification process teaches you about popular project management methods like Agile and waterfall scheduling, among other industry best practices.
PMP certification requires work experience, training courses and the successful completion of an exam. Once you pass the PMP exam, you are considered a PMP. This title can help you advance your career.
How Long Does PMP Certification Take?
The time it takes to get PMP certification depends on where you are in your career. Below, we’ll break down the experience and credentials needed to obtain PMP certification.
Work experience
If you have completed high school but not a four-year degree, PMP certification requires the following.
- 60 months leading projects
- 35 hours of formal project management training (“contact hours”) or certified associate in project management (CAPM) certification
If you have completed a four-year degree, the requirements are as follows.
- 36 months leading projects
- 35 contact hours or CAPM certification
Project management training
Regardless of your education level, the PMP exam requires you to obtain 35 hours of formal project management training, also called “contact hours.” You can complete your contact hours either online or in person. Costs vary depending on how you complete your contact hours, but generally speaking, online PMP training courses are a less expensive option.
If you have the CAPM credential, you do not have to complete contact hours to obtain the PMP title.
Application processing time
Once you’re ready to sit for the PMP exam, you must submit an application to PMI. An approved application gives you the go-ahead to take the PMP exam. Typically, it only takes about three to five days to hear back from PMI regarding the status of your application.
Study time
Once you’ve met the experience and education requirements for the PMP exam, you may still need to put in some additional study time to feel ready to pass the exam. It’s up to you how long you spend studying for the PMP test, but it’s important to prepare before sitting for the test since you’ll have to pay a fee for each attempt.
How Much Do PMP Certification Classes Cost?
The amount you’ll pay for your 35 hours of targeted PMP certification classes depends largely on where you take your courses and the format you choose. The cost of PMP training ranges from $300 to more than $3,000. Free PMP certification training is also available, but usually only as a free trial period before a paid course. Online PMP certification courses are often less expensive than in-person options, but this isn’t always the case.
Online courses
For example, 35 hours of PMP certification training from Master of Project Academy costs $1,070. A similar course from the Project Management Academy costs $1,995.
Colleges and universities often offer PMP test prep courses as part of their continuing education curricula as well. Schools typically price these courses according to their regular tuition rates unless otherwise specified.
In-person courses
An in-person bootcamp in the DC/Metro area offered by the Certification Academy costs $1,899 and boasts a 98% pass rate when it comes time to sit for the exam. But a PMP certification course offered by UCLA runs $6,000 and includes both in-person or online options.
How Much Does the PMP Certification test Cost?
The first time you take it, the PMP test costs $555 for those without PMI membership. PMI members, on the other hand, pay $405. If you opt to become a PMI member at the time you sign up to take the exam, you’ll still have to pay the nonmember rate.
If you don’t pass the test the first time, you can retake it in the future. This gives you additional time to study, and you’ll already have some familiarity with the test format and content. The fee to retake the PMP test is $275 for PMI members and $375 for nonmembers.
Once your application is approved by the Project Management Institute, you’ll have one year to take the PMP exam. You can take the test up to three times in one year.
How Much Are PMP Renewal Fees?
Upon successful completion of the PMP exam, you’ll be responsible for keeping your skills and knowledge up to date. The Project Management Institute promotes a continuing certification requirements program to help you do this.
In a three-year timespan, you’ll need to earn 60 professional development units to keep your certification up to date. You can earn these through courses, often offered online, in areas like leadership, business management and project management. This cycle continues indefinitely at three-year intervals. If you don’t manage to keep your certification up to date, it will be suspended for one year.
In the third year of the renewal cycle, you’ll have to renew your PMP certification by the anniversary date of your initial exam. If you are a PMI member at this time, you’ll pay a renewal fee of $60. The PMP renewal cost for nonmembers is $150.
The Bottom Line
PMP certification is a great option if you’re working in the field of project management and want to level up your career. By becoming a PMP, you’ll gain exposure to some of today’s most popular project management methods, like waterfall and Agile. You’ll take courses in business management and leadership and learn the skills you need to enhance your portfolio.
If you embark on a journey toward PMP certification, you can expect to pay $300 to $3,000 or more for the training. It then costs $405 or $555 to sit for the exam, depending on whether you’re a PMI member.
Once you’ve completed the PMP exam, you must maintain a certain level of continuing education to keep your certification active. The renewal fee, paid every three years, costs $60 for PMI members or $150 for nonmembers.
Becoming an ISA Certified Control Systems Technician® (CCST®) is a mark of career excellence that affirms your commitment to quality and demonstrates your expertise and knowledge of automation and control systems. It provides a non-biased, third-party, objective assessment and confirmation of your skills as a control systems technician.
Who Are CCSTs?
Working in process automation and manufacturing automation industries around the globe, CCSTs are an elite group of automation and control technicians who have proven they possess an extensive knowledge of automation and control systems. CCSTs calibrate, document, troubleshoot, and repair/replace instrumentation for systems that measure and control level, temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables. They are skilled in pneumatic, mechanical, and electronic instrumentation. They understand process control loops and process control systems, including computer-based systems.
What is the difference between the CCST program and the NICET Certification?
NICET, the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, offers a four-level certification program for instrumentation engineering technologists. The CCST program is designed specifically for the control systems technician, and is more application focused.
CCST Levels
There are three levels of certification offered for control systems technicians. All certification levels provide a non-biased, third-party, objective assessment and confirmation of an automation technician’s knowledge of and experience with project start-up, commissioning, loop-check, project organization, planning, and documentation.
With a five-year minimum education and experience requirement, earning this certification confirms that you possess vast knowledge of calibration, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
With a seven-year minimum education and experience requirement, this certification demonstrates Level one knowledge, as well as some knowledge of administration, supervision, or management.
This certification demonstrates level one and two knowledge, including an extensive knowledge of administration, supervision, or management, and has a 13-year minimum education, training, and/or experience requirement.
CCST Certification Requirements
To become an ISA CCST, you must meet certain education and work experience requirements, pass an exam, and commit to the ISA Code of Ethics. Learn more about CCST requirements.
CCST Body of Knowledge (BOK)
The CCST BOK defines automation project domains, the tasks within the domains, and the knowledge and skills required to complete the tasks. CCST exams cover four major domains that have been organized based on the findings in a recent CCST job task analysis study. To see a complete explanation of the domains and the percentage of test questions included from each domain, visit the CCST Body of Knowledge page.
How to Apply
There is no application form for CCST certification. The process involves confirming that you meet the following requirements and then taking an exam.
Requirements
Note: by paying the test fee, you are confirming that you are aware of, have met, and can document that you meet the requirements for the CCST certification for which you are applying.
Click the appropriate button below to add the test fee to your cart. After you complete your purchase and your payment has successfully processed, you will receive a payment confirmation email. Then, one month before your test window, you will receive an email with the test invitation and instructions for scheduling your exam.
Apply for CCST Specialist — Level 2
Apply for CCST Master — Level 3
About the Exam
You can take any of the CCST exams online from your office or home if the testing area meets the requirements and your computer meets specifications. You can also take the test at a Scantron test center. The CCST exams are multiple choice and have different time durations and questions.
| Exam | Questions | Duration |
| Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) — Level 1 | 150 | 4 hours |
| Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) Specialist — Level 2 | 125 | 3 hours |
| Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) Master — Level 3 | 150 | 4 hours |
Learn more about Certification Exams and Testing.
How to Prepare
Want help preparing for a CCST exam? We recommend taking the review course for the certification which you are applying. When you enroll in a CCST review course, the application fee is included in the course price. You will automatically receive an test invitation after you start the course. By paying for the review course, you are confirming that you are aware of, have met and can document the requirements for the certification level for which you are applying. Visit the Prepare for the CCST Exam page to view and select the course format that best suits your needs.
ISA has developed an extensive library of training courses, study guides and reference publications that are built around the technologies and syllabus covered on the CCST exams. These resources have been developed and reviewed by subject matter experts. Learn how to prepare for a CCST exam.
Reference to Standards and Codes
The aspects of automation covered on the CCST test reflect the tasks performed in the range of practice settings throughout the United States. Familiarity with the following standards and codes is recommended. get the Reference to Standards and Codes (PDF).
- ISA Standards
- IEEE Standards
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Codes and Federal Regulations
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standards
- US Food and Drug Administration Regulations
- American Petroleum Institute (API) Standards
For International applicants, note that the validation study for the exams was done in the United States, so there may be questions on the test that reference US standards and codes.
What Is Six Sigma Certification?
Six Sigma certification is a verification of an individual's command of a well-regarded quality assurance method. Certifications for Six Sigma training are awarded in levels using a belt classification system similar to belt levels used in martial arts.
Six Sigma is a set of quality management techniques and tools developed in the 1980s and adopted by American corporations, including General Electric. Development of the Six Sigma system is credited to Bill Smith and Mikel Harry, two Motorola engineers, and the name was trademarked by Motorola in 1993.
There is no standard Six Sigma curriculum. Programs are offered by many colleges, online and on-campus, and are offered in-house by many corporations.
Key Takeaways
- Six Sigma is a set of quality management techniques and tools that have been widely adopted by American corporations.
- Six Sigma originated as a method of minimizing errors or defects in manufacturing processes.
- It has since had a pervasive influence on management practices in the U.S. and abroad.
Understanding Six Sigma Certification
The name Six Sigma stems from a statistical measurement represented by the lowercase Greek symbol sigma (σ). On a bell curve measuring data and standard deviation, sigma represents one standard deviation from the mean of a set of data. So, six sigma refers to the data that falls with six standard deviations on either side of the mean of the dataset.
On the curve, any data points outside of six sigma represent products outside acceptable norms—these are generally called defects. The Six Sigma bell curve represent one million data points. Therefore, if your product falls within six sigma—or six standard deviations from the mean on either side—there is a likelihood that you only have 3.4 defects per million items produced.
In a manufacturing process, this is the ultimate level to strive for, ensuring error-free delivery of a product 99.99966% of the time. Six Sigma training, therefore, focuses on developing management processes that reliably lead to virtually defect-free results in manufacturing or in any business activity.
The Six Sigma Belt Levels
Six Sigma certifications are awarded belt levels relevant to the position in the employee's business within an organization. They are earned through practical experience, course-based training, and exams. The belt levels are:
- White belt: Awarded for completing an entry-level overview of the tools used in Six Sigma, its history, and the system's structure.
- Yellow belt: Awarded for assisting a project at a practical level and passing an test demonstrating an understanding of implementing, performing, and applying Six Sigma.
- Green belt: Awarded for learning the principles of Six Sigma and implementing them under the guidance of a black belt in real projects. Must pass an test demonstrating thorough knowledge of the phases of the Six Sigma Method.
- Black belt: Plans and executes projects using Six Sigma principles. Must pass an test demonstrating a complete knowledge of the phases of the Six Sigma Method.
- Master black belt: Manages the implementation of Six Sigma projects across functions. Demonstrates through an test an expert understanding of the philosophies and principles of Six Sigma.
- Champion: An upper-level executive who is responsible for the implementation of Six Sigma across all departments.
Benefits of Six Sigma
For Employers
Six Sigma helps employers in many ways. In addition to improving employee and process performance, businesses benefit from:
- Reduced waste
- Increased efficiency
- Increased revenue
- Reduced errors and defects
- Increased customer satisfaction and loyalty
- Increased brand recognition
For Employees
Employees benefit from Six Sigma training and application as much as businesses do. Many experience:
- Increased pay
- An increase in opportunities
- Higher job security
- Leadership opportunities
Lean Six Sigma
Lean Six Sigma is derived from a combination of Lean and Six Sigma principles. Lean focuses on removing waste of physical and personnel resources by identifying the causes of defects, overproduction, waiting, non-utilized talent, transportation waste, inventory waste, waste of motion, and extra processing.
Lean Six Sigma uses Six Sigma techniques to identify and eliminate wasted resource use that doesn't generate value for the end user while continually working to achieve a goal of 3.4 defects per million products.
No Official Standards for Six Sigma
No unifying standard or organization sets a standard for Six Sigma belt certification. Instead, each company, school, or certifying organization determines its own criteria.
In some organizations, certification may require completing an test or a series of exams. In others, an individual must complete several Six Sigma-based projects. In addition, certification services charge a fee.
How Much Does Six Sigma Cost?
Because Six Sigma training is not standardized, costs will vary based on who is conducting the training. For example, a company training employees in Six Sigma will likely not charge the employees but will incur the costs of employing people who can teach the subject, developing the curriculum, and losing the employee's time at their regular job.
You can take certification tests through various sources, such as Purdue University, The Council for Six Sigma Certification, or Project Management Academy. Project Management Academy charges $495 for its Beginner Yellow Belt certification, $2,295 for its Green Belt Training, and $3,595 for its Black Belt Training.
The Council for Six Sigma Certification offers free white belt certification and charges $99 for a yellow belt, $159 for a green belt, and $229 for a black belt (for primary certifications—level II certifications are more expensive).
What Is a Six Sigma Certification?
Six Sigma certification signifies you have received a specific level of training and understand the concepts involved in a particular quality improvement method.
How Long Does It Take to Get Six Sigma Certification?
The time it takes to get a Six Sigma certification depends on many factors. If you're receiving the training through your employer, it may take one week or more. On the other hand, studying in your free time can take as long as you need to study and pass the exam.
What Does Six Sigma Certification Cost?
Six Sigma certification costs vary by level from $99 to $3,595. The costs also depend on how much instruction you receive or whether you're only paying for the exam.
The Bottom Line
Six Sigma is a quality control certification that attempts to educate people on analyzing processes and outcomes to reduce waste and decrease defects. There are several levels of certifications, from a primary end user to a master Six Sigma user who acts as a senior quality control member.
Six Sigma benefits both employees and employers because using it can reduce waste and defects, thereby increasing a business's value to consumers and end-users. This can lead to high levels of customer satisfaction, more revenue, higher compensation, and better products.
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
If you’re a project management professional with less than three years of experience, and you are looking to boost your resume and certify your skills and knowledge, the Certified Associate of Project Management (CAPM)® certification may benefit you.
Early-career professionals who are wondering if the CAPM is worth it should consider the certification’s key factors. This article overviews factors to consider regarding CAPM certification, including costs, salary and growth potential and career options.
What is CAPM Certification?
The CAPM certification is a beginner-level credential administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that validates an individual’s knowledge and competency in project management fundamentals. The certification serves entry-level professionals, project team members and project managers who are seeking to advance their knowledge and implement best practices in their day-to-day work.
CAPM Certification Cost and Exam
Several components factor into the total CAPM certification cost. These expenses include test fees, training costs, study resources and renewal fees.
The CAPM test fee is mandatory, and test-takers must pay it directly to PMI. The fee breaks down as follows.
- Exam fee. $225 for PMI members and $300 for nonmembers
- Re-examination fee. $60 for PMI members and $150 for nonmembers
Training Costs
CAPM training and test preparation courses typically incur additional costs. Fees for training courses vary depending on the program. CAPM bootcamps typically start at around $200. In just three or four days, these programs provide the 23 hours of project management education required for CAPM certification.
A training course can cost between $300 and $500. There are several training options available for certification candidates with varying budgets.
PMI bases the current CAPM certification test on the sixth edition of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)® Guide. PMI members receive this guide with their memberships. Nonmembers must purchase the PMBOK if they want to use it to prepare for the exam. PMI bundles this edition of the PMBOK Guide with its Agile Practice Guide, which is available to purchase from PMI for $49.
Note that starting in 2023, the CAPM test will no longer be based on the PMBOK Guide.
Resources and Practice Tests
For the current version of the CAPM exam, test-takers should review the sixth edition of the PMBOK. PMI also recommends those pursuing CAPM certification to prepare through courses and study groups in addition to self-study. Local PMI chapters often offer formal study courses, as do PMI-authorized training partners. Costs vary among providers.
CAPM candidates may take practice exams as well. The costs of these exams widely vary, and there are some free practice questions available online. PMI offers sample test questions and the CAPM handbook—both excellent tools for self-study—online for free.
CAPM Renewal Costs
The CAPM renewal fee is $60 for PMI members and $150 for nonmembers. CAPM-certified professionals who want to maintain their CAPM status must renew their certification every three years, during which they must complete 15 professional development units.
PMI periodically updates the renewal process for CAPM certification, so make sure to check PMI’s website to stay on top of the most current renewal requirements and costs.
CAPM Salary and Job Growth Potential
PMI projects that the global economy will need 25 million new project management employees to meet demand by 2030: 12 million due to the field’s projected expansion, and 13 million due to worker retirements. This amounts to 2.3 million project management job openings per year until 2030, indicating strong, steady growth for the field.
Even early-career project management professionals earn relatively high salaries as well, according to PMI. In the U.S., project professionals with less than three years of experience earn a median annual salary of $78,279.
Below we list a few roles, spanning from entry-level to senior positions, that you may qualify for with a CAPM certification.
Project Management Analyst
Median Annual Salary: $93,000
Job Description: Management analysts make recommendations to Improve organizations’ efficiency. These professionals, also called management consultants, analyze how an organization might increase its profits by reducing costs and increasing revenues and advise managers accordingly.
Management analysts should have a bachelor’s degree and several years of work experience. CAPM certification is not required for this role, but it can bolster your resume.
Project Coordinator
Average Annual Salary: More than $48,000
Job Description: Project coordinators assist project managers by organizing projects to ensure they’re completed on time and within budget. These professionals coordinate project management activities, resources and equipment. They also collaborate with clients to identify and define project objectives, requirements and scope.
Project coordinators analyze risks, monitor project plans and oversee work hours, schedules and spending. Project coordinators often organize and participate in stakeholder meetings.
Project Manager
Median Annual Salary: $94,500
Job description: Project managers provide critical leadership to help organizations complete projects. These professionals oversee ongoing projects to ensure teams meet deadlines, project requirements and client expectations. They submit deliverables, prepare status reports and streamline communications between teams, team members, stakeholders and clients. They help identify and resolve issues that arise during the project duration.
Project Management Director
Average Annual Salary: More than $123,000
Job description: Project management directors strategically develop, direct and manage multiple projects within larger organizations. They establish methodologies and standards to set measurable quality and productivity targets. These professionals oversee finances, coordinate resources within the defined scope and monitor potential risks to ensure teams complete projects on time and within budget.
Is a CAPM Certification Worth It?
The CAPM certification is a respected designation that indicates a commitment to the field and certifiable knowledge and experience in project management. If you’re contemplating earning a CAPM certification, consider the following factors before taking the plunge.
Consider Your Career
A CAPM certification can help individuals with up to three years of experience in project management boost their resumes and help their job applications stand out.
The certification is a solid place to start if your professional goals include project management. It can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced positions and certifications in the field, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP)® credential. In fact, CAPM certification fulfills the formal training PMP certification requirements.
Look at Earning Potential
Earning CAPM certification can increase your earning potential. Payscale reports that CAPM-certified professionals earn around $68,000 per year. Note that several factors can impact your earning potential, including your level of education, job title, location and professional experience.
Expand Your Job Opportunities
CAPM certification assesses candidates against strict guidelines that demand competency in and knowledge of project management skills, methodologies, processes and best practices. This professional designation can help your resume stand out and give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs. It signals to employers that you can successfully fulfill their roles, duties and responsibilities.
A Stepping Stone to the PMP Certification
CAPM certification builds a strong foundation in project management fundamentals and can serve as a stepping stone toward the PMP certification. Before applying for the PMP exam, candidates must meet the following requirements.
- Hold a four-year degree.
- Have 36 months of experience in leading projects.
- Complete 35 hours of project management education or training or CAPM certification.
Alternatively, you may:
- Hold a high school diploma or associate degree.
- Have 60 months of experience leading projects.
- Complete 35 hours of project management education or training or CAPM certification.
Final Verdict
All of the companies on this list represent good options for getting life insurance without a medical exam. All are A+ rated or better for financial strength and have received fewer complaints than expected when averaged over a three-year period. If you don’t need more than $3 million in coverage and are 50 or younger, any company on this list could be a good fit. But if you’re over 50 and looking for a death benefit of more than $1 million, you can rule out Nationwide. If you’re over 60, your only option for high-coverage no-medical-exam life insurance is Penn Mutual. And regardless of your age, Penn Mutual is your only option if you need a death benefit greater than $5 million and don’t want to take an exam.
If you’re looking for term coverage, try Penn Mutual or Pacific Life; for dividends, Penn Mutual or Guardian. If you want free living benefits, look to Nationwide. And if you’d like a wellness plan with your life insurance, John Hancock delivers.
A number of companies offer life insurance policies without requiring a medical exam, but you’ll generally be eligible for the lowest premiums with those that ask thorough health questions on the application.
What type of life insurance does not require a medical exam?
Most any type of policy is eligible for no-exam underwriting. It used to be that if you wanted to skip the exam, only low-coverage insurance policies were available to you. These are still available and sold as burial or funeral insurance, or guaranteed-issue policies. But now, insurers have a number of sophisticated means by which to collect health and other information, so they don’t need to rely on your exam. Plus, it costs them money to administer it and time to receive and review the results. No-exam underwriting allows insurance carriers to issue life policies faster, which is often good for both the customer and the insurer.
So whether you’re looking for term or permanent coverage, a whole life policy or an indexed universal life policy, it’s available somewhere without a medical exam. But not all companies offer no-exam life insurance on all or even any of their policies, so you’ll need to do some research to find one that does. (The companies in the list above are an excellent start.) The one caveat is that not everyone is eligible for no-exam underwriting. If you have health issues that raise red flags for the insurance company, you may be required to undergo a medical screening to complete your application.
Can you borrow money from a no-exam life insurance policy?
Yes, if it's a policy with a cash value. No-exam life insurance policies are just like regular life insurance policies. The only difference is that a medical screening is not required during the application process. Once approved, the policy functions just as it would had you taken an exam. So if you’ve purchased a permanent life insurance policy that builds a cash value, that cash value will be available to you, subject to any surrender period or other standard policy conditions.
How do I choose the best life insurance policy?
Choosing the best life insurance policy for you depends on your life insurance needs. How much coverage do you need? (Ideally, you’ll get enough to pay off your debts and replace your income, at the very least.) How long do you need it for? Your needs may change once your kids are grown and your home is paid off, for instance. The next question to ask is, how much premium can you afford?
The answers to these questions will help you narrow down whether you need term or permanent life insurance coverage. Term life insurance is designed to last for a specific number of years, such as 30, and then expire. Permanent life insurance is designed to last your entire lifetime, and is therefore more expensive than term. You may also want to combine term and permanent policies to have a higher-coverage term policy during your working years or while you’re raising a family, and then a lower-coverage permanent policy that will kick in once the term coverage expires.
Term policies let you choose the length of the term (a 40-year term is the longest we’ve seen), and often provide the option to convert your term coverage to permanent. Permanent policies have a cash value, which may be accessed via withdrawals and loans.
Once you’ve figured out your budget and the general type of coverage you need, you should begin to get quotes from financially stable companies with track records of good customer satisfaction.
If you want a no-exam life insurance policy, it may be helpful to know that most of the 91 companies we reviewed offer some sort of policy that doesn’t require an exam. You’re best off first finding a good company (or a few you like), and then seeing what kind of policy you can get without an exam. This review and our review of the best life insurance companies of 2022 are both good places to start. And be sure to compare multiple quotes for no-exam life insurance because some policies are cheaper than others (depending on the type of no-exam underwriting used).
How We Chose the Best Life Insurance Companies
In order to compile our list of the best no-medical-exam life insurance companies, we developed a comprehensive life insurance methodology. We started off by researching what consumers want from life insurance companies, and for that, we looked to third-party consumer studies, including J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Life Insurance New Business Study and the 2021 Insurance Barometer Study, by Life Happens and LIMRA.
With those findings in mind, we gathered more than 50 data points on 91 life insurance companies, including ratings for financial strength, customer satisfaction, and customer complaints, as well as information about years in business, online tools, no-exam options, dividends, maximum issue ages, and available riders.
Our review process gave preference to companies with solid financials, few customer complaints, high no-exam coverage amounts available, high-issue ages for no-exam coverage, and a broad product portfolio. Companies received ratings boosts for online resources, including online quotes and live chat, and included living benefit riders. We ranked each company according to the following categories and weights.
- 28%: No-med-exam availability and features
- 20% Policy types and features
- 15%: Financial stability
- 15%: Customer satisfaction
- 13%: Ease of application
- 9%: Online resources
To finalize our list, we compared individual offerings between top companies by considering ratings from third parties such as AM Best and J.D. Power, and delving deeper into product specifics—including cost and the availability of dividends. We used this research to determine the best no-medical-exam life insurance companies.
