The Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification, offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis, is used to demonstrate that an individual has completed a specific level of competency in the discipline of business analysis.
It is used by candidates to demonstrate their advanced knowledge and level of competency in the field of business analysis including demonstrating expertise in various different types of business domains, the ability to undertake complex projects, the ability to work with a range of stakeholders to manage and define their business needs and requirements, the ability to define and drive business processes, lead the overall business analysis effort and the ability to identify methods and opportunities to achieve improved business functions.
To earn the CBAP certification a candidate must have the following:
• At least 7,500 hours of work experience in the business analysis role within the past 10 years.
• At least 900 hours of the aforementioned experience must be completed in four of the areas specified in the BABOK Guide Knowledge (specified by the International Institute of Business Analysis) areas for 3,600 hours of the 7,500 hours total experience required.
• A minimum of 35 hours of professional development in the business analysis field within the previous four years.
• Two references from previous employers.
• Sign and agree to the Code of Conduct and the Terms and Conditions (as specified by the International Institute of Business Analysis).
• Complete the required examination.
The CBAP certification is intended for people that have significant experience in business analysis and wish to demonstrate that they have competency at the level required level by this certifying body. It can also be a certification for people that are in the role of Trainers, Product Managers or other non Business Analysis roles that wish to expand their competencies. This can also include hybrid business analysis professionals such as those involved in project management, product testing, quality assurance professionals, change management professionals and workflow designers among others.
Business Analysts that achieve the CBAP certification can expect to receive higher remuneration than their non-accredited colleagues. In the next five to six years it is expected that the demand for business analysts will grow by up to 20%, especially in businesses undergoing digital transformation. The role is multi-faceted and varying from role to role. Employees in this field report that it provides financial stability and many professional development opportunities, including the ability to achieve a management role.
