Software Testing Certifications: Can They Really Open Any Doors
Software testing certifications are the way to get a foot in the door if you are someone that wants to become a software tester. While currently there is no wide acceptance of software testing certifications, they can help a lot merely by showing that you are taking steps to becoming a better software tester. The reason why software testing certifications aren't as highly accepted as certifications in other fields such as information's technology are because there is no body of knowledge that is widely accepting and no one resides over any board that can decertify someone. Despite this little fact, there are a wide range of software testing certifications out there. Each of these software testing certifications are grouped into either exam or education-based certifications.
Exam-based certifications are those in which you only need to pass a test. There is no requirement for putting in any class time. Individuals that go this route may learn on their own and take the exam whenever they feel they are ready. Of the software testing certifications out there, this type may be the one to pick for those that work a lot or have a family to look after. Since they aren't required to be away from their home, they can study whenever they have free time to do so.
On the other hand, education-based certifications are software testing certifications that are conducted by an instructor and participants must attend and pass several courses. Getting certified in the manner can be the right choice for those that have more free-time on their hands or for those that find it easier to learn in a classroom setting.
Now let's take a look at the actual software testing certifications you can obtain. The certifications you can obtain are CSTE, CSTP, CATe, ISEB, and ISTQUB. All of these certifications are offered by different institutions such as the Quality Assurance Institute, K. J. Ross & Associates, International Institute for Software testing, Information Systems Examination Broad, and the International Software Testing Qualification Board. While the names and methods used to obtain certification differ from institute to institute, they are all essentially the same certification. After getting your certification, you are on your way to getting a good job as a test lead/manager, tester, test designer, test automated developer, or test administrator. While some companies hiring for these positions might want people with a little more education like a bachelor's degree, don't let that discourage you from getting your certification and applying anyway. You might be surprised at how many companies ask for a degree, but end up hiring someone without one. It happens all the time in the software and technology fields. It might also benefit you to get some certifications in the IT field as well. Software testing certifications mixed in with an A+ or MCSE certification might just give you the advantage you need to find a great career as a software tester. In the long run it will be up to you to see how far your software testing certification will get you. Be prepared to jump through some hoops in the beginning and never give up if software testing is what you want to do.
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