Software Testing - Certifications

Certifications

Several certification programs exist to support the professional aspirations of software testers and quality assurance specialists. No certification now offered actually requires the applicant to show their ability to test software. No certification is based on a widely accepted body of knowledge. This has led some to declare that the testing field is not ready for certification. Certification itself cannot measure an individual's productivity, their skill, or practical knowledge, and cannot guarantee their competence, or professionalism as a tester.

Software testing certification types

Exam-based: Formalized exams, which need to be passed; can also be learned by self-study
Education-based: Instructor-led sessions, where each course has to be passed .

Testing certifications

Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST) offered by the QAI
CATe offered by the International Institute for Software Testing
Certified Manager in Software Testing (CMST) offered by the QAI
Certified Software Tester (CSTE) offered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI)
Certified Software Test Professional (CSTP) offered by the International Institute for Software Testing
CSTP (TM) (Australian Version) offered by K. J. Ross & Associates
ISEB offered by the Information Systems Examinations Board
ISTQB Certified Tester, Foundation Level (CTFL) offered by the International Software Testing Qualification Board
ISTQB Certified Tester, Advanced Level (CTAL) offered by the International Software Testing Qualification Board
TMPF TMap Next Foundation offered by the Examination Institute for Information Science
TMPA TMap Next Advanced offered by the Examination Institute for Information Science