http://www.developer.com/java/other/article.php/2243191/Programming-Certifications-Java-2.htm
If you have been part of the computer programming world for any length of time you are sure to have heard of, and probably used, Java 2 technologies. Java 2 is Sun Microsystems's development platform for creating end—to—end network applications and embedded applications. Two Java platforms exist, Java 2, Standard Edition (J2SE) and Java 2, Enterprise Edition (J2EE). The J2SE platform contains essential items like compilers, tools, API's, and runtimes for creating and deploying applications as well as applets created with the Java language. The J2EE platform includes support for Web Services and the infrastructure for building secure and robust business applications. As with Microsoft developer certifications, see Microsoft Developer Certifications: What's Your Path? , Sun offers certifications for the tools and infrastructures found in the J2SE and J2EE platforms. These certifications allow Java 2 developers to exhibit their skills and expertise with Java 2 technologies. There are four certifications one can attain, and these include: Sun's main goal for certification is to examine people on the job roles that each particular certification supports. Since job roles and tasks are central to the certifications, Sun recommends a minimum of 6 to 12 months of on-the-job experience with Java technologies before attempting the certifications. Also, if you don't feel you have the fundamental base in Java 2 technologies be sure to check out training.sun.com to find training courses that will help you build the fundamental skills for working with Java 2 technologies and tackle the entry-level certifications. This certification is more or less the base certification for Java 2 technologies. This certification is for those who wish to learn and demonstrate fundamental skills using Java 2 tools and technologies. This certification allows a programmer to demonstrate fundamental proficiency with the Java 2 language and the J2SE platform. This certification can be attained by passing any one of the following three exams: As you can see, you can choose one of two platforms to test on as of the writing of this article. It is always good practice to monitor the exam vendor's web site to stay current with what exams remain valid and for what length of time. Also, if you are undecided as to which platform to pursue it is advisable to monitor what the job market is supporting to help you decide the best path to pursue. One caveat to the Upgrade Exam is that you must have passed an exam on a version of the Sun Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform before you are allowed to take this exam. Once you have successfully passed one of the preceding exams, there are two potential ways you can go forward with Java 2 certifications. One path leads you to the Sun Certified Developer for Java 2 Platform certification. This certification is for the programmer who is already well versed in the basics of the Java 2 language and syntax. This certification will require you to apply your skills and knowledge with the Java 2 language and the J2SE platform in the creation of complex, production-level applications. You will be required to have passed one of the Sun Certified Programmer exams, mentioned above, before attempting this exam. To attain this certification you must successfully pass two steps, as described next: As mentioned earlier, once you pass a Sun Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform exam you can move in two different directions. One direction was to move to the Sun Certified Developer for the Java 2 Platform as we just covered, and the other path is to venture into the J2EE territory for the Sun Certified Web Component Developer for J2EETM Platform. This certification is best suited for a Java developer who is interested in Web application development. The person who holds this certification will show specialization in using JavaServer PagesTM (JSP) and Java Servlet technologies to create Web services and dynamic Web content using the J2EE platform. You will only need to pass one exam to attain this certification, as described next: This is the final Java 2 certification currently offered. This certification is designed for architects who design and architect scalable, highly secure, flexible, enterprise J2EE applications. You must successfully complete three steps to gain this certification. All three steps will examine you on designing solutions with topics such as Enterprise Java Beans, common architectures, protocols, messaging, security, internationalization, and design patterns. The three steps you must successfully complete are described below: As you can see, there is plenty of opportunity to test and qualify your skills with Java 2 technologies. To repeat, Sun recommends 6 to 12 months of job experience with these technologies before attempting Java certifications. Since the certifications center on typical job tasks, the experience with Java technologies will certainly bolster your chances of success with these certifications. If you are relatively new to Java 2 technologies, it is advised that you educate yourself on Java 2 language aspects and platforms as you are gaining job experience. Sun offers a solid line of training classes that will help you, and there are plenty of Java 2 books available from computer book publishers. As you begin to pursue Java 2 certifications, be sure to have several study sources and take the time to practice. Several training guides and cram books exist to help you learn more about Sun's objectives for the preceding certifications. If you learn better from instructor-led classes, research the different training centers, technical schools, and colleges for the best prices and top quality instruction. Look for training that gives you plenty of hands-on experience with the Java language, platforms, and tools. Having solid Java skills along with the certifications to boast your abilities as a competent developer with Java technologies will bolster your resume and job satisfaction! # # #
Programming Certifications: Java 2
July 31, 2003
Sun Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform
Sun Certified Developer for Java 2 Platform
Sun Certified Web Component Developer for J2EETM Platform
Sun Certified Enterprise Architect for J2EETM Technology
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