Oracle Certifications Oracle Database Tips by Donald Burleson

The Oracle certification exams are the natural result of a bombardment of unqualified and untalented Oracle professionals. Many of those entering Oracle DBA (database administration) jobs are doing it solely for the salary (Senior Oracle DBAs average over $100,000/year) without any regard for their qualifications, formal education or analytical abilities. 

The plethora of under-qualified Oracle professionals has influenced the certification program as a method for screening Oracle ability and many companies now require Oracle OCP or OCM certificates.  For example, the Oracle Academy program notes that a professional Oracle job requires a four year college degree.

As of 2006 Oracle offers several programs for Oracle Certified Professions, with varying Oracle certification for different levels of expertise and job functions:

• Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) - This lower-level certification is offered by Oracle for those candidates who successfully passed only two of the four OCP exams. Click here for OCA exam training classes.
   

• Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) - The Oracle certified professional is required to pass four challenging exams and demonstrate proficiency in all technical areas of Oracle database administration. Click here for OCP exam training classes.
   

• Oracle Certified Masters (OCM) - The premier Oracle certification, requiring an OCP plus a challenging on-site practicum.

Historically, Oracle has offered other certifications, ea h with different requirements.  For example the Oracle 7 certified DBA required proof of experience:

• Certified Oracle Masters (COM) - This certificate required attendance at five Oracle University classes, with no testing requirements.
   

• Oracle 7 Certified DBA - This certification required an affidavit from employers warranting at least five years of full-time experience.

Many companies now required Oracle certification for employees, especially consulting companies who must rely on Oracle to certify the skills of a professional.