All about Java – Courses & Certifications

“Java is an object-oriented programming language whose history dates back to 1994 when Sun Microsystems came up with an idea of a programming language that can be compiled and executed independent of the machine on which it is used,” says Abhinav Singh, a Shiksha expert and author of the book - Metasploit penetration testing cookbook (a book dealing with Metasploit and penetration testing).

In an interview with Madiha Jawed of shiksha.com, Singh shares the nitty gritty’s of this object oriented programming language – Java.

“In simple words, the motive of building Java was to remove the barrier of platform dependency of programming languages. This striking feature received a lot of attention and soon java became one of the sought after programming languages that could be used for small and medium sized software development purposes. As the time advanced, java grew from being a platform-friendly language to user-friendly programming as well. Its simplicity, robustness and open nature started attracting even bigger software makers of the industry and ever since there was no turning back,” he says.

Talking about 2012, Java now runs on over 3 billion different devices around the world including set-top boxes, mobile phones, automobiles, space shuttles etc. The immense popularity of the platform also attracted programmers to opt for Java as their specialised area of coding since the industry demand is high compared to other coding languages.

Classification of Java

Based on popularity, usability and industry demand, java can be categorised under the following sections:

• Client side Java development: This section of java is based on developing softwares and program modules that can run on client side to support its daily operations. E.g. SAP
• Server side Java development: This section of java is based on developing codes that can enable others to access dedicated servers designed to perform specific tasks. E.g. Creating a stand-alone database server
• Web Development: Java libraries are also extended to Java server pages (JSP) that helps in rich content development for Web
• Mobile Development: Java is actively implemented as a standard language for developing mobile operating systems and applications. Eg Android
• Machine learning through Java: Recent advancement in Java is in the direction of Machine learning which has helped in building and supporting several electronic devices ranging from Space shuttles to CT scan machines

Career relevance

Looking at the above classifications, we will notice the wide implementation of a single programming language. Java can actually be treated as a combination of multiple languages under a common platform. This wide categorisation of Java makes it difficult for an individual to completely understand its every nook and corner. Every categorisation of java requires its own experts. This is the reason why Java produces good career opportunities for enthusiasts who are willing to build a career in the field of software development and programming.

Courses, Certifications and its structure

Java is a main stream subject for engineering courses in computers and information technology (IT). These courses mainly focus on building a basic idea and implementation of the language. However, for deeper studies there are specialised courses and certifications available.

Official Java Certifications

Java was taken over by Oracle in 2010, so its certifications are now governed and provided by Oracle Inc. The certifications follow a fixed order based on expertise. Oracle also provides classroom training programs before certification exam. Students can also directly opt for certification exam wherein they will have to clear a rigorous test on Java programming at its respective level. Successful completion of test will qualify the candidate for a certification signifying his/her excellence at that level. 

The certification levels are:

• Oracle Certified Associate (OCA): First level of certification indicating a good basic understanding of the language.
• Oracle Certified Professional (OCP): A benchmark for professionals in the field of java programming.
• Oracle Certified Master (OCM): A highly skilled and experienced java programmer
• Oracle Certified Expert (OCE):  A complete expert in Java programming and its architecture.

Diploma in Java

There are several Diploma courses available for those who are willing to build a strong foundation in Java and later convert it into a career opportunity. The duration can be between 3 month and 1 year based on full-time or part-time. Some of the recommended programs for diploma in java are:

Diploma in Java, CDAC (highly recommended): The Center for Development of Advance Computing (CDAC) is a Government of India initiative to make people proficient in computers. Diploma in Java is one of their programs which are highly recommended for those who want to build a good career in Java programming. CDAC course has a good reputation in the industry because of the fact that not everyone can get a chance to study at CDAC. Their selection is based on merit.

Diploma in Java, GNIIT: GNIIT is India’s largest private program to gain a diploma in Java programming. They have a good course structure and faculty. Their diploma programs are based on expertise level.

APTECH, Diploma in Java: Another premier institute to target if you are looking for a Java course. The java foundation course offered by this institute is for 1st & 2nd year engineering students. A six month course (248 hours), it trains students in the latest versions of Sun Java technology. Java is a technology developed by Sun, which is in demand with IT companies around the world.

Short-term Certificate programs

Short-term Java courses are very popular these days. These courses can be beneficial for those who possess some kind of a programming background. They can easily match up with the pace of the course and grasp things quickly. Several government and private institutes provide short-term java certificate programs for different Java categories like Core Java (J2SE), Java 2 Enterprise Edition(J2EE), Java 2 Mobile Edition(J2ME) etc. Some of the premier institutes include DOEACC, NIIT, APTECH, IIHT etc.