Understanding all Atlassian Credentials and Certifications types

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, mastering the tools that drive collaboration and efficiency is more important than ever. Atlassian, a leader in software development and project management solutions, offers a variety of credentials and certifications that validate expertise and enhance professional growth. From foundational badges earned through Atlassian University to advanced certifications like the Atlassian Certified Professional (ACP) and the newly announced designations coming in November 2024, there’s something for every aspiration. Whether you’re just starting your journey with Atlassian tools or looking to deepen your specialization, understanding these credentials can provide you with a clear path to success. In this post, we’ll explore the different types of Atlassian credentials available and outline their requirements.

Active Atlassian Credentials & Certifications

Atlassian University Badges

You automatically earn a badge after completing a training course through guided learning paths at Atlassian University. You can quickly get started with a new product, build some admin skills, or boost your productivity and teamwork. These credentials are free for everyone and are listed in your Atlassian University Profile and others.

Atlassian Certified Associate (ACA)

This essential or foundation certification is ideal for beginners or those looking to establish a solid understanding of Atlassian’s solutions. The exams are one hour long and include 25 exam questions. The list of ACAs can be found at Atlassian University.

Atlassian Certified Professional (ACP)

These three-hour exams include 65 or more questions. Passing the exam validates expertise in administering Atlassian tools and adhering to practices. Earning these certifications demonstrates a high level of proficiency in configuring and utilizing Atlassian solutions. You can find all ACPs here, and after passing the exam, they are listed in your Certmetrics portal.

Atlassian Partner Accreditations

Accreditations are exclusively available to Atlassian Solutions Partners and their employees, who must renew their accreditations annually. There are two main paths for Atlassian accreditations: sales and technical. These accreditations are essential for providing the latest knowledge and training specific to Atlassian solutions, tailored to the respective roles within the business. The Partner Enablement Academy and Atlassian University Profile are these Accreditations in the user profile.

Specialist designations

In November 2024, two new designations will be introduced, which can be earned by obtaining and combining related ACP (Atlassian Certified Professional) and ACA (Atlassian Certified Associate) certifications. These new Specialist designations will align with Atlassian’s System Of Work, focusing on key areas such as Agile DevOps, IT Service Management (ITSM), teamwork foundations, the Atlassian Cloud Platform, and more. The first two new designations are:

– Atlassian Certified Administration Expert

– Atlassian Certified Agile DevOps Specialist

Retired Credentials

Some certifications, badges, and standings were retired because they were outdated and did not reflect the latest changes in Atlassian products and solutions. In 2021, for example also, a few Atlassian Certified Professional (ACP) certifications, including the Atlassian Certified Confluence Administrator for Data Center and Server (ACP-CA) and the Atlassian Certified System Administrator (ACP-SA), were retired.

Atlassian Skill Badge (ASB)

These small exams were retired in February 2024 and have been designed to renew related certificates for 24 months. Even if you did not intend to renew an ACP, you could take the exams, which contain up to 21 questions and must be completed within 60 minutes, to demonstrate your expertise in areas such as “Issue Security in Jira” and more.

Atlassian Pro Skills Badges (APB)

These more extensive exams have been retired, but they were previously online-proctored and were part of the process for achieving the Atlassian Certified Expert designation. For some time, the highest credentials for Jira Align and Confluence have been the Jira Align and Confluence APBs.

Atlassian Certified Expert (ACE)

Originally named Atlassian Certified Master, this standing was renamed to Atlassian Certified Expert in 2021 and finally retired in February 2024 by the University team. While available, it was the highest standing and required holding different Cloud and Data Center certifications to earn.

More Information

• Atlassian Community: CertMetrics is getting a new look and feel!
• Atlassian Community: Evolving the Atlassian Certification Program
• Atlassian University: Maintain your certification
• Atlassian Community: New Atlassian certification designations – coming soon!
• Atlassian University: Professional Certifications
• Retiring Credentials & Certifications: Atlassian