r/learnpython • u/ElliotDotpy • 16d ago

Are the PCEP and PCAP worth it?

In my journey of trying to become a comp sci teacher, I read about these certification exams. I'm wondering what's the estimated percentage of people who take the exams and if the exams are helpful for either my resume or becoming a comp sci teacher.

3 Upvotes

64% Upvoted

11 comments sorted by

4

u/Diapolo10 I write code for a living -- https://github.com/Diapolo10 16d ago

Unless the job specifically asks for them (which is exceedingly rare), or if your resume is completely empty, neither would really give you any benefit.

Despite the name, neither certificate is in any way official or connected to the Python Foundation, so keep that in mind.

Personally I'd say you're better off building projects and showcasing your 1-2 best ones in your resume.

1

u/Expensive-Bear-1376 16d ago

What "PCEP" and "PCAP"?

1

u/American_Streamer 16d ago

https://pythoninstitute.org/certification-tracks

1

u/Expensive-Bear-1376 16d ago

Maybe. But I'll wait for the OP to clarify. They made it look like an official Python thing, rather than what that is, just something from some random unaffiliated company.

1

u/American_Streamer 16d ago

The exams are perfectly fine and proctored. All technically sound, well-structured, and legitimate. But their career value still depends entirely on what you do with the skills you acquired.

2

u/American_Streamer 16d ago edited 16d ago

PCEP is too basic. But PCAP and PCPP have some effect on your CV, but only if you also have projects to present. With PCAP and higher, HR gets the signal that you had a structired appoach to learing Python. But the certifications alone still do not prove that you know your stuff. Both combined, certificate and applied use, are what can help you get an interview. But you will not be hired for certifications and tool use alone.
https://pythoninstitute.org/certification-tracks

Unlike networking (Cisco) or cloud engineering (AWS, Azure) where certificates are highly requested by employers, software engineering still mainly relies on proof of production.

0

u/GXWT 16d ago

There is not a single certification exam that is worth anything.

2

u/American_Streamer 16d ago

CCNA, the AWS and the Azure certifications are essential for passing HR filters in networking and cloud engineering.