Sun Certification Programs
Sun certification, which is a computer certification, requires experience with the Java software platform and the Solaris operating system. You can become Sun-certified as a system administrator or a Java programmer. Read about online and on-campus certification programs that will train you for the exams. Explore the salary potential for careers in this field.
<h3 id="section---AreThereAnySunCertificationPrograms">Are There Any Sun Certification Programs?</h3>
<p>You will find that several institutions offer certification programs for IT professionals working with the Sun Solaris operating system and Sun Java software platform. A Sun certification is an internationally recognized credential in the IT industry, and a certificate program will expand your knowledge of the Java programming language, object-oriented concepts, Solaris administration and general tasks on the Solaris operating system. Many of these programs will also administer Sun's certification exam after you complete your coursework.
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<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Certification Availability</b></td><td>Sun certification is available through certificate programs</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$110,140 for software developers;<br />$84,810 for computer systems administrators</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Course Topics</b></td><td>Security, installation, maintenance, backup and recovery, administration</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Online Availability</b></td><td>Some programs can be completed online</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td>At the end of many programs, a certification exam is offered; separate testing sites are also possible to find</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>22% growth for software developers;<br />4% growth for computer systems administrators</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---WhatCanThisCredentialDoForMyCareer">What Can This Credential Do For My Career?</h3>
<p>If you are an IT professional interested in working as a systems administrator or a software developer, a Sun certification in Solaris or Java may help qualify you for more advanced positions in your field. According to a 2020 study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (<i>www.bls.gov</i>), software developers earned a median annual salary of $110,140 and computer systems administrators earned a median annual salary of $84,810.
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<h3 id="section---WhatIsTheCurriculumLike">What Is the Curriculum Like?</h3>
<p>Depending on your interests, you can choose between certification as a Solaris system administrator or a Java programmer. In a system administrator certification program, you will take courses in UNIX fundamentals and Solaris administration, including security, installation, maintenance, backup and recovery. In a Java programming course you will learn the fundamentals of the language and program design and development.
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<h3 id="section---CanICompleteTheseProgramsOnline">Can I Complete These Programs Online?</h3>
<p>Some schools offer Sun certification and training programs that can be completed entirely over the Internet. These programs allow you to work at your own pace, and you may enroll at any time during the academic year. In order to take online courses, you will need a broadband Internet connection and an updated browser like Internet Explorer or Firefox. You will also need media viewing software, such as Windows Media Player and Adobe Acrobat.
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<h3 id="section---HowDoIGetCertified">How Do I Get Certified?</h3>
<p>Most of the programs you find will include a certification exam at the end of your program. Once you complete the program and pass your exam, you will receive the Sun certification credential for your area of interest. If your school does not offer the certification exam as part of your program, you may need to take it at a separate testing site.</p>