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The Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms that software development is expected to grow 17% from 2023 to 2033. With an estimated 140,100 openings annually, you’re less likely to be unemployed in this field. Here are a few good reasons why there’s a significant demand for software developers:

  1. The increasing adaptation of digital technologies within companies to streamline processes.
  2. Rapid advancements in AI, machine learning, blockchain, and IoT.
  3. The rise of cybersecurity concerns.
  4. The shift to remote work increases the need for digital collaboration tools.
  5. The need for data analytics.

Despite the rising demand for software development skills, there aren’t enough qualified candidates to fill all the open positions. If you want to get a spot in this field, you need to earn relevant certifications.


There are several beginner-friendly IT certifications today, from foundational IT to troubleshooting and customer service certifications. These certifications will give you the necessary boost you need to get recognized by employers. Many certifications let you learn by doing real-world projects, helping you gain practical skills relevant to the industry.

Do you need a degree to earn beginner-friendly IT certifications? No, you don’t! Many of these certifications don’t require a degree. They are designed to give you a head start in coding and IT.

In this post, we will discuss the top beginner-friendly IT IT certifications for aspiring software developers, including:

  1. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
  2. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
  3. Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP)
  4. Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate
  5. FreeCodeCamp Certifications
  6. Responsive Web Design by W3Schools
  7. Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP)
  8. Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate

Related:

Why IT Certifications are Important for Beginners

In the past, people usually became IT professionals by teaching themselves or getting a traditional degree. Self-teaching worked when there were fewer computer users, but now it’s harder to do because the field is so complex.

While degrees can provide valuable knowledge, they often focus more on theory than practical skills and can take years to complete. Beginner-friendly IT certifications, on the other hand, are hands-on and show employers that you know what you’re doing. These will help you apply your skills in real-world scenarios, making the theoretical knowledge more concrete.

With entry-level software development certifications, you can pursue careers like:

  1. Junior Software Developer
  2. Web Developer
  3. Mobile App Developer
  4. Quality Assurance (QA) Tester
  5. DevOps Engineer (Junior)
  6. Technical Support Specialist
  7. Data Analyst
  8. IT Support Technician
  9. Project Coordinator
  10. Freelance Developer

Essential Skills for Aspiring Software Developers

The top certifications to start a career in software development help you prove to employers that you possess the required skills for the field. These include:

  1. Proficiency in Python, Java, and JavaScript and other languages.
  2. Strong problem-solving and logical skills for identifying issues, debugging code, and devising efficient solutions.
  3. Proficiency in software development life cycle.

Unlike degree programs, software developer certifications for beginners will not cover less relevant topics. You won’t see “philosophy of programming” or “history of computing” topics in these certifications. Instead, you’ll focus on practical, hands-on skills that can be immediately applied in the workforce. For instance, you’ll dive straight into programming languages like Python or Java, essential frameworks, and tools that are in high demand.

Many certifications include project-based assessments. This approach allows you to show off your skills with real examples. Moreover, it helps you create a strong portfolio, making you more appealing to employers.

Top Beginner-Friendly Certifications in Software Development

CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)

This is one of the top beginner-friendly IT certifications, offering a solid grounding in IT concepts. Topics include data types, troubleshooting, databases, and software development principles. The course prepares you for the FC0-U61 exam and helps enhance your IT skills.

Key skills gained:

  • IT Concepts And Terminology
  • Infrastructure
  • Applications And Software

Cost: $134 for the exam voucher

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

The MTA, part of Microsoft Learn, is great for aspiring software developers who want to focus on Microsoft technologies. This certification focuses on basic software development, databases, and programming concepts. While some hands-on experience is beneficial, prior job experience is not required.

Key skills gained:

  • Fundamental IT Concepts
  • Networking Basics
  • Security Essentials
  • Database Fundamentals
  • Software Development
  • Windows Operating Systems: Insight into Window

Cost: Approximately $127 for the exam voucher

Programming-Specific Certifications for Beginners

Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP)

For those seeking IT certifications for beginners focused on Python programming skills, the PCEP is a great way to start. This certification is widely popular in web development, data science, and automation, aiming to help you accomplish many different business goals.

Key skills gained:

  • Basic Python Syntax
  • Data Types and Variables
  • Control Structures
  • Functions
  • Basic Error Handling
  • Introduction to Libraries

Cost: $59 for the exam fee

Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate

This is one of the best beginner-friendly IT certifications for those interested in learning Java. You’ll also be able to manage decision-making and looping statements and handle debugging and exceptions in Java SE.

Key skills gained:

  • Java Development Kit and Runtime Environment
  • Data Types, Operators, and Strings

Cost: $150 for the exam fee

Web Development Certifications for Beginners

FreeCodeCamp Certifications

FreeCodeCamp offers eleven beginner-friendly IT certifications. They cover HTML, CSS, and JavaScript basics. It also includes interactive and project-based learning for aspiring web developers.

Key skills gained:

  • Responsive Web Design
  • Front End Development Libraries
  • Data Visualization
  • Back End Development and APIs
  • Scientific Computing with Python
  • Information Security
  • Machine Learning with Python

Cost: Free (self-paced)

Responsive Web Design by W3Schools

W3Schools offers some of the best beginner software development certifications, including the Responsive Web Design certification. This credential will focus on teaching you HTML and CSS for building responsive websites.

Key skills gained:

  • HTML & CSS Basics and Grid
  • Flexbox
  • Media Queries
  • Responsive Images
  • Cross-Browser Compatibility

Cost: $95 for the exam voucher

Certifications for Developing Core IT Knowledge

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

If you’re seeking an easier alternative to entry-level programming certifications, you can start with the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. It focuses on IT support while introducing key skills relevant to developers. It lays a good foundation for those looking to understand IT infrastructure before specializing in development.

Key skills gained:

  • Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving
  • Networking Basics
  • Operating Systems
  • Security Fundamentals
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Cloud Computing
  • System Administration

Cost: Approximately $49/month via Coursera (about six months total, depending on pace)

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)

The CCT credential demonstrates your understanding of basic networking, which is essential for many software development roles. It covers foundational concepts such as IP addressing, network protocols, and troubleshooting. It’s also one of the top certifications for coding beginners.

You have two CCT paths to choose from:

  • CCT Data Center certification
  • CCT Routing and Switching certification

Cost: $300 for the exam (varies by path: Data Center or Routing and Switching)

The Benefits of Online Learning Platforms for IT Certifications

Starting a career in software development doesn’t have to be hard. If you don’t want to invest in university degrees and courses just yet, you can resort to online learning platforms. Here are some of the top platforms providing IT certification courses:

  • Coursera
  • Udemy
  • edX
  • Skillshare
  • MasterClass
  • LinkedIn Learning
  • Udacity
  • FutureLearn
  • Khan Academy
  • Pluralsight
  • 360training
  • Mindvalley

These online learning platforms offer two main benefits to beginners. For one, it offers flexible learning formats that’ll allow you to work at your own pace. Second, they offer hundreds of free or low-cost beginner-friendly IT certifications.

How to Choose the Right Certification for Your Goals

All the mentioned beginner-friendly IT certifications are beneficial. However, the significance of their benefits relies on how well they align with your career goals. Before picking a certification option, consider the following factors:

  1. Your current skill level. While these programs help you build skills, assessing where you currently stand is important. Always set realistic expectations.
  2. The programming languages or development area you want to focus on.
  3. The certification’s relevance to entry-level job requirements.

Before selecting a certification, it’s important to do some research. The most effective way is to talk to others. Ask co-workers or join online forums to learn which certifications are most valuable in your field.

You should also review the course content and structure. Ensure that the course covers the necessary topics and offers hands-on experience, case studies, or projects.

Conclusion

It’s never too early or too late to dive into a career in IT. Quick and low-cost entry-level certifications can be your ticket into this exciting industry that keeps the world running. But before starting your IT certification journey, take a moment to assess your current knowledge and skills.

Getting IT certifications is one of the best ways to lower your chances of unemployment. Hundreds of certifications are available, so whether you’re just starting out or already have experience, there will be something in store for you.

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