What is the AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate (DEA-C01) certification?
The DEA-C01 certification validates your ability to design, build, manage, and optimize data pipelines and data workflows on AWS. It demonstrates skills in implementing data lakes, handling ETL processes, and applying data governance and security in cloud environments.
Who should take the DEA-C01 exam?
This exam is ideal for data engineers with at least 2 years of experience in data engineering or cloud data workflows, especially those working with Amazon Redshift, Glue, Athena, and Lake Formation. Candidates should also be familiar with data modeling, storage formats, orchestration, and security best practices.
What topics are covered in the DEA-C01 exam?
The exam focuses on five main domains:
- Data Ingestion and Transformation
- Domain 2: Data Store Management
- Domain 3: Data Operations and Support
- Domain 4: Data Security and Governance
How is the exam structured?
The exam consists of 65 questions in either multiple choice or multiple response format. You are given 130 minutes to complete the exam. The passing score is set using statistical analysis and may vary slightly over time.
What are the recommended prerequisites before taking the exam?
While there are no mandatory prerequisites, it is recommended to have:
- 2+ years of experience in AWS data services
- Strong knowledge of data ingestion, transformation, and storage
- Familiarity with scripting (e.g., Python or SQL) and orchestration tools like Apache Airflow or AWS Step Functions
How can I prepare effectively for this exam?
Follow this study plan:
- Review the official exam guide and sample questions
- Take advantage of AWS Skill Builder, AWS Cloud Quest: Data Engineer, and digital courses
- Practice with AWS Builder Labs, Glue Studio, Athena, and Redshift Spectrum
What are the key AWS services I should master?
Key services include:
- AWS Glue (ETL orchestration, Data Catalog)
- Amazon Redshift (Data warehousing)
- Amazon Kinesis & MSK (Streaming data)
- AWS Lake Formation (Data lake setup and permissions)
- Amazon Athena (Serverless querying)
- AWS DMS (Database migration)
Is hands-on experience important for the DEA-C01 exam?
Yes. Hands-on practice is essential for understanding real-world scenarios involving data ingestion pipelines, schema evolution, job orchestration, and security policies. AWS recommends using the free tier and labs to simulate tasks.
How long is the certification valid and how do I recertify?
The AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate certification is valid for 3 years. To recertify, you need to retake the current version of the exam or upgrade to a more advanced certification before expiration.
