Obtain more MSSQL certifications or start to get some Oracle certifications?

  • I have already gotten the following MSSQL certifications:

    • MCITP: Database Administrator 2008

    • MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Implementation and Maintenance

    • MCITP: Database Developer 2008

    • MCTS: SQL Server 2008, Database Development

    Since I'm living in San Francisco/Bay Area, the requirements for DBA/Developer jobs seem to be higher than other areas. Most if not all of the MSSQL DBA/Developer jobs also require some knowledge and experience in MSSQL BI area: SSIS (DTS), SSRS, and SSAS. Most of the DBA/Developer jobs require Oracle and/or MySQL. Now, I need to decide whether to get certified for MSSQL BI area or for Oracle. Since I'm not familiar with the Oracle platform, I need some suggestions for certifications from DBAs/Developers who have been working with Oracle. I hope to get some advises (hopefully some from people who are involved in hiring DBAs/Developers) whether I should get certified for MSSQL BI area or Oracle in order to increase my chances of laying a job in this tough job market of San Francisco/Bay Area.

    Thanks for any help.

  • I think you should at least get your Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) certification to stay competitive in the current job market. The OCA will only require two exams ($125 each) and give you a basic knowledge of Oracle.

    You will have to choose between the DBA and developer tracks. I would stick to the 11g versions of the certifications:

    - Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Associate

    OR

    - Oracle PL/SQL Developer Certified Associate

    I wouldn't advise getting both OCA certifications because with minimal real-world experience one certification will just get your foot in the door.

    Then, when you get a job utilizing your Oracle skills, you could attend a training class and take an additional exam to get your Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) title. I have my OCA, but the training class is a requirement for the OCP and they cost $3,000 dollars, so I won't be getting the OCP for a while. Good luck!

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