SCAJ Prep/Test

[Lazy8s]

I am looking at finishing up my Master's in Software Engineering this spring and I am looking into certifications. I already have a certification as an Information Systems Security Personnel but I would like one (I think) more related to programming. My foundation throughout undergrad has been Java and last year I was a TA for Java 2.

Looking at the Sun website it seems their online test prep is about $565 total followed by $300 for the SCJA exam. That seems rediculous, especially considering the perpetual state of brokeness for grad students. Of course there are aout 800 online prep courses that guarantee for you to pass for about $40-$70 but I am not sure which will be any good. Does anyone here have this certification? Is it something that I would have to study a great deal for? I am kind of thinking about just paying the $35 and accessing the practise tests to see where I stand aready. Thanks in advance for any thoughts.

 

[EvilManagedCare]

Don't waste your time or money taking test prep courses for the SCJA. Get Cameron Mackenzie's study guides for it. He has one that is the review, and one with loads of sample questions. Here you go:

SCJA Study Guide and sample tests

I found them useful and passed the exam. Bear in mind the SCJA is the introductory cert, and as you likely know, the value of certs are argued from all perspectives. If you were actually a TA for Java 2, the SCJP may be more appropriate. Do make sure the version of the exam matches what the books help you prepare for, but I don't believe Sun has put out a new version of the SCJA for Java 6.

Cameron's a part of the community at Java Ranch, which is an excellent resource for all things Java.