Originally posted by Travis Gibson:
Peter,
Here's my take on Sun Certification. First off the test is somewhat difficult. It is used to show that you at least understand the core syntax and logic of Java itself.
I have heard of guys with several years of experience failing the test because it requires you to learn many of the JFC(with constructors) to memory. In the real world if you have question about an class you can just review the API specs, but it is somewhat challenging.
If you already have 2+ years of development experience then it definately complements your resume. If you have "NO" real world experience it can be the difference between a return phone call and/or telephone interview and your resume going right in the trash can.
For me it really helped me because I am from a mainframe background(COBOL/CICS/JCL/DB2) and I finally transitioned into a Java Developer just recently.
My two cents,
Travis M. Gibson, SCJP www.travismgibson.com
travis@travismgibson.com