I am finishing my college degree in programming soon and I'm exploring the next steps to take to further my career. One option I've been considering is getting a certification or a series of certifications in the area of development I want to work in.

Are these certifications worth the time and money? Do employers place a lot of value in them?

The main purpose of certifications is to make money for the certifying body.

Having said that, I think certifications are more important the earlier on in your career you are. As a hiring manager, I never use certifications or the lack thereof to filter potential employees, but I do think some companies may look for these as proof that you know what you are doing. Personally, I want the job candidate to show me they can do something (which is a whole other question, I realize!)

The more experience you have, the more you can prove by examples that you know what you are doing and the less important certifications become.
