Michael Trapp, has composed a list of what he believes will be the hottest certs for 2008. The list is based on job growth, sales of certification training material, and “a little guess work.” We have edited it slightly for 2009.
1. MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional)
2. CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
Trapp reasons that most network administrator jobs right now are IP related and they are in more demand at a higher professional level as compared to Microsoft Certifications.
3. MCPD (Microsoft Certified Professional Developer)
Demand for these developers is up over 80% compared to last year. Trapp says there are only a little over 3,000 currently with the certification.
4. SCJP (SUN Certified Java Programmer)
Trapp says that a Java credential is one of the most valuable credentials that a programmer or developer can have, since about 70% of business entities’ development projects are done through J2EE.
5. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
With CISSPs earning $94,070 a year on average, it’s easy to see why Trapp puts this one on the list. (Note that the exam costs $500, lasts up to six hours, and includes 250 multiple choice questions.
6. Comptia A+
By far the most popular entry level certification.
7. PMP
A good cert to have since the Project Managers are in a high demand. Since this certification exists, the HR is looking at those letters (PMP) in your resume
8. MCTS SQL Server 2005/2008 (The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist)
Trapp thinks SQL Server 2005/2008 is going to be hot next year since many companies are switching from SQL Server 2000.
9. ITIL
Suddenly, many folks are interested in ITIL certification. It is very popular in Europe, and it becomes recognized here, in the U.S.
10. Comptia Security+
Growth in Security+, which covers topics like communication security, infrastructure security, cryptography, access control and authentication, shows no signs of slowing down. According to Trapp, “Comptia’s Security+ Credential is must have in today’s world.”