What is the real value of CompTIA certifications?

Is it worth it to get CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ certifications?

These three entry level certifications are fast becoming the “vanilla” flavor requirements for ANYONE trying to begin an Information Technology career.

In 2005 the Department of Defense mandated the DoD 8570 directive to establish a baseline of skills for information technology positions. The CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+  certifications are DoD approved to comply with the 8570.01 directive.  This directive became mandatory for entry level applicants and triggered an avalanche in the demand for these certifications.

As an example, in June of 2015 CompTIA reported that 2 million individuals hold the CompTIA certifications and one half of that number (I million) are A+.

Pathway to CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ certifications:

• Exam fees for all four tests: $1054.00
• Average costs for boot camps (each): $5000
• Study time per certification: 50 hours

Total costs: 200 hours (50 weeks) and $16,000??

But the good paying IT job will be worth it right?

This where it gets tricky…

Infosec Institute reports nose bleed level salaries for CompTIA A+ certification that don’t match the real world Information Technology job market.

Infosec estimates the range of salary at $40 to $80K for just the CompTIA A+ certification.  Search any job board on the internet in any state in the the U.S. for entry level information technology or customer service jobs requiring only a CompTIA A+ certification. The results will be a pay range between a low of $18K a year to a high of 38K a year.

But what if I get all 3 certifications, will the pay be a lot higher?

The chances of getting an entry level job with a starting salary north of $35K is about the best you can hope for holding the 3 certifications. The reality is, no matter what, these three CompTIA certifications are so “over sold” in the current market that the true value from a salary perspective is severely diminished.

So, let’s go back to the original question:

Is it worth it to get CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ certifications?

The best possible answer is maybe, here’s why.

If you are just starting out in information technology, you need basic skills. These three CompTIA entry level certifications prove that you have solid, well rounded foundational knowledge in information technology. With these certifications under your belt, you can expect a realistic average starting salary of $30K to $38K a year. In some low paying markets, you can expect an average of $24K to $30K a year. 

Don’t get caught up in the salary hype about CompTIA entry level certifications. They don’t have any real “weight” in the IT job market unless you are an ABSOLUTE beginner.

What certifications do I need to advance my career?

That depends on what field you want to grow in.

IT careers have many pathways and certifications (these are just a few).

• financial
• healthcare
• cyber security
• project management
• programming

Come talk to us about your career goals, your dream job and where you are now.

We understand the Information Technology industry and infrastructure.  We can help you navigate through certifications pathways from CompTIA to  CISCO, ISACA and SANS and help you select the right match.

Give us a call!