Getting Certified in Java Technology

It's short and simple: technology certifications can help your career grow. One prominent source for getting certification is Sun Microsystems, the creators of the Java programming language. Consider Java is one of the most popular programming languages used today, certification can help demonstration your knowledge of technology and software development on a multitude of levels.

Why Certification?: Not only do certificates represent to you that you understand a know a certain technology and help build your resume, they provide a solid backing for your career - it's like having an instant, easily-verified reference vouching that you understand the job you're applying for. If you have a certification in a specific technology it shows whoever's hiring you that someone else, namely the creator of the exams, believes you understand the technology. And this also helps relieve hiring manager of additional responsibility - they can, after all, say that you had certification - making you an easier prospect to hire.

Why Java?: Java is currently the most widely-used programming language, with Java Virtual Machines on everything from computers to cell phones to cars. If you're a software developer, then Java certification easily demonstrates your knowledge of at least one popular programming language. If you are interested in other areas of technology, Java certification still demonstrates that you understand several fundamental technological principals - also adding to your qualifications.

How To Get Certified: Java certification starts with the 'Sun Certified Java Associate', which allows you to claim a base set of knowledge in application development and possibly software project management. Certification can be found directly from Sun via their website. After earning a 'Sun Certified Java Associate' certification, which can be earned after training and a proctored exam, you can go on to earn additional certification, starting with the 'Sun Certified Java Programmer' certification.

For Students: Sun also offers the Sun Academic Initiative to colleges worldwide, giving hundreds of thousands of student the opportunity for training and certification at a significant discount. I highly recommend checking out the SAI if you attend any accredited college. Training, which is free for students, can cover everything from Java Technology to the Solaris 10 Operating System to Sun Web Development to StarOffice.

The Numbers: According to Sun, Sun Certified Programmers earn on average 8.3% more than the average programmer, and Sun Certified Developers earn on average 14.3% more than the average developer. Sun Certified System Administrators earn on average 31% more than system administrators certified on other operating systems.