Game Testing Certification: Advance Your Career
Certifications hold great significance in the job market for video game testers, as they serve as a vital aspect. Video game companies seek to ensure that their testers possess the essential knowledge and expertise required for proficiently evaluating games. By acquiring certifications, testers can demonstrate their level of skill and expertise in the field of video game testing, granting them an advantage over other applicants lacking formal training.
Moreover, certifications provide tangible evidence to employers that a tester is proactive in expanding their knowledge and experience in the industry, ultimately resulting in enhanced productivity for the company. Furthermore, certifications establish the credibility of a tester when collaborating with clients and other professionals within the gaming industry.
The objective of this article is to evaluate prominent certifications for video game testers and elucidate their potential in advancing a tester’s career.
What do Video Game Tester Certifications entail?
Video game tester certifications are a form of professional recognition, validating an individual’s ability to conduct quality assurance tests on video games. These certifications assure employers that the certified individual possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively evaluate video games, alongside a foundational understanding of software development and industry standards for creating successful games. Additionally, these certifications ensure that testers have a fundamental grasp of game testing tools, including debugging and performance tracking.
Acquiring such certification can prove highly advantageous for those aspiring to enter the gaming industry, as it demonstrates their commitment to learning more about game testing and their qualification to perform the role. Furthermore, possessing these certifications unlocks new employment opportunities, as employers will have confidence in the candidate’s ability to tackle challenges associated with game testing, even without prior experience in the gaming industry. Additionally, these certifications enhance a person’s resume, indicating to prospective employers their dedication to their career and pursuit of excellence in their work.
Valuable Tip: It is crucial to verify the authenticity of the video game tester certification you intend to pursue. Seek certifications that are accredited or recognized by industry standards, and consider courses that have been reviewed by other game testers. This will ensure that the certification you obtain is truly worthwhile in terms of both time and financial investment.
Top 10 Video Game Tester Certifications
Presenting a compilation of the finest certifications available for Video Game Testers in the current landscape.
1. Certified Software Tester (CSTE)
The Certified Software Tester (CSTE) is a professional certification program offered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI). Its aim is to acknowledge individuals who have exhibited their expertise and skills in software testing. The CSTE certification validates that a person possesses the necessary knowledge to perform software testing with proficiency and effectiveness.
- The CSTE certification process consists of two components: an online assessment and a practical examination. The online assessment evaluates the candidate’s comprehension of software testing concepts, processes, and tools. The practical exam assesses the candidate’s ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.
- To attain certification, candidates must pass both parts of the exam with a score of 70% or higher. Generally, the entire process takes between three to six months, depending on the candidate’s pace in completing the online assessment and preparing for the practical exam.
The cost of becoming a Certified Software Tester varies depending on the chosen training program. On average, it amounts to around $999-$1,999 USD, covering all the necessary materials for the CSTE exam, including books, practice tests, and additional resources.
2. ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)
The ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) is an internationally recognized certification for software testers. Its purpose is to provide a fundamental understanding of software testing, encompassing principles, methods, and techniques employed in this field. The CTFL certification is granted by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).
- The CTFL exam comprises 40 multiple-choice questions and typically takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To pass the exam, a minimum score of 65% (26 out of 40) is required.
- To obtain the CTFL certification, individuals must register with ISTQB and pay the exam fee, which varies depending on their location, usually ranging from $149-$249 USD. After registration and payment, candidates receive an email containing instructions for accessing the online exam. Results are typically provided within 24 hours of completing the exam, and successful candidates receive a certificate valid for three years.
The cost of taking the CTFL exam can differ depending on the examination location and potential associated fees. However, most exams fall within the range of $149 – $249 USD.
3. Microsoft Technology Associate: Gaming (MTA Gaming)
The Microsoft Technology Associate: Gaming (MTA Gaming) is a certification program designed to assist individuals in acquiring foundational knowledge in game development and design.
- It caters to those interested in pursuing a career in the gaming industry or seeking a better understanding of game development and design.
- The MTA Gaming certification offers an entry-level credential that validates basic knowledge of game development, design, and technology.
- The MTA Gaming certification comprises two exams: Exam 1: Introduction to Programming Using Block-Based Languages and Exam 2: Introduction to Programming Using HTML and CSS. Successful completion of both exams is necessary to obtain the MTA Gaming certification.
- The duration to complete both exams typically spans between 6-12 months, contingent upon the individual’s study habits and dedication. It is recommended for individuals to embark on an online course or attend a training class covering the exam topics. Additionally, Microsoft provides practice tests for both exams on their
website.
The cost of taking the MTA Gaming certification exams varies depending on the examination location. As a general estimate, each exam costs around $130 USD when taken through Microsoft or authorized testing centers.
4. International Game Developers Association Quality Assurance Certification Program (IGDA QA)
The International Game Developers Association Quality Assurance Certification Program (IGDA QA) is a certification initiative recognizing the skills and expertise of quality assurance professionals in the video game industry.
- Developed by the IGDA in collaboration with the Quality Assurance Special Interest Group (QASIG), this program aims to promote best practices in quality assurance and provide an industry-recognized credential for individuals working in this field.
- The IGDA QA certification program encompasses two elements: a training course and an assessment exam. The training course covers crucial topics such as software testing fundamentals, test case design, bug tracking, and test automation. It incorporates practical activities to allow participants to apply their skills. The assessment exam evaluates participants’ understanding of the training course material.
Typically, it takes around one month to complete the IGDA QA certification program, depending on the time allocated for studying and fulfilling the necessary requirements. To obtain certification, individuals must register for the training course online at igdaqa.org and complete all the requirements within the designated timeframe. After completing the training course, candidates can take the assessment exam at an authorized testing center nearby or through online proctoring services like ProctorU or Examity.
The cost of certification through the IGDA QA program varies depending on the assessment exam location and the decision to purchase additional study materials, such as textbooks or practice exams. As a general guideline, registration fees and exam fees combined amount to around $250 USD.
5. ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Professional Certification (MATP)
The ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Professional Certification (MATP) is a certification program specifically designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of mobile application testers. The MATP certification aims to demonstrate that an individual possesses the necessary expertise to effectively test mobile applications across various platforms.
- The MATP certification requires applicants to pass both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as mobile application development, testing methodologies, and mobile security. The practical exam consists of hands-on exercises that assess the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- To obtain the MATP certification, applicants must register for the exams through ASTQB’s website. Upon registration, applicants receive an email with instructions on accessing the exams. After successfully completing both exams, applicants receive the official certificate from ASTQB.
- The cost of obtaining the MATP certification varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence. On average, the exams cost approximately $200 USD when combined. Applicants usually receive their results within 1-2 weeks after taking the exams.
6. Certified Agile Tester (CAT)
The Certified Agile Tester (CAT) is a certification program developed by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) to recognize professionals with expertise in agile testing. The CAT certification validates the knowledge of testers working in an agile environment.
- The CAT certification entails a two-hour multiple-choice exam. The exam covers topics related to agile testing, including agile principles and values, test planning and execution, test automation, test design techniques, and continuous integration. Candidates must possess at least two years of software testing experience and familiarity with the agile methodology before taking the exam.
- To obtain the CAT certification, candidates must register for the exam through ISTQB’s website, with a current registration fee of $250 USD. Once registered, candidates can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide or online from their home or office. After passing the exam, candidates receive their CAT certificate via email within four weeks.
The Certified Agile Tester (CAT) certification is valid for three years from the date of issuance and can be renewed through a refresher course or by retaking the exam.
7. Certified Usability Analyst (CUA)
The Certified Usability Analyst (CUA) is a professional certification that acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of usability and user experience. Administered by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES), an international organization dedicated to the study of human-computer interaction, the CUA certification process involves completing a comprehensive online exam.
- The online exam covers various topics, including usability engineering, user interface design, usability testing, and related subjects. It consists of multiple-choice questions and typically takes around three hours to complete. Additionally, candidates must submit a portfolio showcasing their knowledge of usability principles and practices.
- To become a CUA, candidates must fulfill certain eligibility requirements, such as possessing a minimum of two years of full-time work experience in the usability or user experience design field. They are also expected to demonstrate knowledge in areas like human factors engineering, cognitive psychology, software development processes, and web accessibility standards.
8. The American Society for Quality
Game and Simulation Quality Assurance Certification (ASQ GSQA) is a certification program that acknowledges individuals’ expertise in the field of game and simulation quality assurance. It serves as a recognition of their knowledge and skills in applying principles, practices, and techniques related to quality assurance in games and simulations.
- To obtain the ASQ GSQA certification, individuals need to complete an online application process. This process includes submitting a resume, providing two professional references, and undergoing an online assessment. The assessment consists of multiple-choice questions that assess the applicants’ understanding of game and simulation quality assurance principles. Once the application process is completed and the assessment is successfully passed, the individual will be granted the ASQ GSQA certification.
9. The CompTIA A+ certification
It is a globally recognized industry standard for IT professionals. It validates the skills and knowledge required to support and troubleshoot computer hardware and software. It is a vendor-neutral certification, covering major operating systems like Windows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS, and Android. Obtaining the CompTIA A+ certification can enhance career prospects in the IT field, as it demonstrates proficiency in troubleshooting common computer issues and understanding fundamental network concepts.
10. The Certified Professional Game Designer (CPGD)
It is a professional certification offered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) to recognize the expertise and experience of game designers. It provides validation of an individual’s knowledge and skills in game design, development, and production. Applicants need to have at least three years of professional experience in game design or development and pass an online assessment that covers various topics related to game design. The CPGD certification process typically takes around four to six weeks, involving completing the online assessment and submitting an application for review by the IGDA Certification Committee.
To Wrap Up
While having a video game tester certificate can give applicants an advantage and showcase their skills and experience, it is not a mandatory requirement for working as a video game tester. Employers in this field often value more than just a certificate and look for individuals with technical knowledge, troubleshooting abilities, and a genuine passion for discovering bugs and glitches in games. While having a degree or certification in video games can be beneficial, hands-on experience and a track record of playing and testing games are highly valued by employers. It is essential to highlight relevant experience, such as beta testing or internships at gaming companies, along with any formal education or certification, during the application process.
In conclusion, while a video game tester certificate can provide an advantage in job applications, it is not a necessity if applicants possess the requisite skills and experience. Employers value practical experience and passion for the job, so highlighting relevant hands-on experience and knowledge during the application process is crucial.