‘Certifications’? Ask this to any computer professional – and their eyes will surely glow… 🙂 ‘certifications’ are available in every computer field – as an example, we have the Oracle Java certifications(OCJP, OCJWCD), PMP certifications, data center certification(CCNA, CCNP), computer hardware certifications(A+, Server+), cloud certifications(AWS, CCNA) and the Information security certifications like CISSP, CCSP, CEH(which I am most interested in… 🙂 ) and more…- in fact, you can hardly meet a software professional in the computer field who is not certified!!
Degrees:
Having said this, many colleges also offer degrees in the Computer field such as Bachelors degree in Computer Science and Engineering(for India), Masters degree in Computer Science and Engineering and many other degrees directly or indirectly related to the Computer field. All these degrees require 4 years(Masters programs will take lesser number of years) of hard work and good grades to pass with a good GPA or marks.
So, which is more respected – degrees or certifications in the computer industry?
As you step into the employment phase of life, initially, educational qualifications will definitely pave the way for a good and plum job in the desired industry and domain. But after a period of time, as technology rolls and changes all in its path – though our core values from the degree are strong and firm, we need additional skills to move up the career ladder. This is where certifications step in.
Every certification tests you on different skills apart from your work experience. In fact, mid and high level positions in an organization might demand certifications to validate you and make sure that you are still in sync with the industry. You will have to spend at least 3-4 months studying for these certification exams and the exams will not be easy by any means. After you are certified, most of these certifications might have to be renewed every few years. In fact, I have high respect for professionals who put a series of certifications behind their name!! 🙂
Conclusion:
I am sure any organization will be happy with a candidate who has an amazing degree plus all the relevant certifications but I think certifications definitely steal the thunder from a higher degree in the mid and high level employment space!! 🙂
This is the fifth post for #MyFriendAlexa by @Blogchatter. I am taking my blog to the next level with #MyFriendAlexa and #Blogchatter.
Certifications vs Degree
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Totally Jayanthi. Infact with good degree you can get a job but to grow in the job you need certifications. Certification is a proof of your skill and expertise in the field. Being in it for 8 years I can vouch for it .. #damurureads #myfriendalexa
I feel certifications are becoming more relevant than degrees in majority of the professional fields. Look at writing for instance. Writers prefer certification courses compared to the money and time they need to commit for MFA or MA.
You are absolutely right. Degrees are a definitely needed for getting into your chosen field, but certifications holds equal importance to groom your career with some needed touches. I have a degree in Management but I did other courses which had my favorite combination and now I have a degree and those certifications. it also shows that you never stopped learning.
As an employer, I always prioritize certifications over degrees. Certifications are always up to date. As far as degrees are concerned, they can be dated at times.
I agree with you completely.. But I feel one should have a good degree and then add on with certificates..
Yup have heard from my friends in IT sector pursuing some certification or the other, this post of yours shed the light on why do they so. Thank you so much Jayanthi for writing this post.