Sun’s Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform 1.4 is meant for “programmers interested in demonstrating proficiency in the fundamentals of the Java programming language using the Java 2 Platform, Standard Edition (J2SE technology).” This certification can be a starting point for more advanced designations, such as the Sun Certified Developer for the Java 2 Platform and the Sun Certified Web Component Developer for the Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition. Also, this certification and related exam qualifies for the second level of the jCert certification, the Java Programmer.

The Sun Certified Programmer for Java certification has been around for a few years and was updated in the fall of 2002 when testing moved to focus on Java 2 Platform version 1.4 rather than version 1.2. In terms of recertification, Sun certification exams taken after September 1, 2002 are “valid for two (2) years from the date of certification. Despite the two-year validity date, Sun does not presently plan to revoke certification titles already held by a professional if the validity date of a specific certification has passed.“

This certification is well suited to IT professionals who have titles such as: web developer, web programmer, software developer and application programmer.

To achieve the Sun’s Certified Programmer for the Java 2 Platform 1.4, a candidate must pass one exam, CX-310-035. Also, if you already hold this certification for a version prior to 1.4, there is a one exam upgrade, CX-310-036.