Computer certification programs provide a faster path than a 4-year degree for entering the IT field. Certifications can be earned in as little as a few months by passing exams in areas like networking, software, and hardware. These industry-recognized qualifications demonstrate skills and keep people's knowledge up to date more efficiently than returning to school. Certification courses help prepare for exams and allow hands-on learning, at a lower cost than college. This makes certification a quick and affordable way for career-changers or new graduates to start a job in information technology.