Next steps after CSA exam?

[rakshithar9]

I would love to know what paths people are taking after the CSA exam from a noncoding perspective. I want to go about it structurally. I am not entirely new to ServiceNow and have worked in a techno functional role before. Which certifications or skills helped you the most after CSA?

[Rafael Batistot · Accepted solution]

Hi @rakshithar9 

See a Structured Noncoding Path (Example) 

1. CSA (done)
2. ITIL v4 Foundation (optional but highly recommended)
3. CIS–ITSM (most common first specialization)
4. Depending on career direction:
   
• CIS–CSM (if interested in external support processes)
• CIS–HRSD (if working with HR)
• CIS–SPM (if working with PMOs/strategy)
5. Add Performance Analytics + Flow Designer to boost functional/low-code expertise.
6. Broaden with Agile/Scrum or Business Analysis skills.

From ServiceNow, the following are very strong for non-developers:

• CIS–ITSM (Certified Implementation Specialist, IT Service Management)
  → Validates you can configure and implement ITSM. This is the most common “next step” after CSA.
• CIS–CSM (Customer Service Management)
  → If your org is using ServiceNow outside IT, this cert is valuable.
• CIS–HRSD (Human Resources Service Delivery)
  → Popular in enterprises that digitize HR case management.
• CIS–SPM (Strategic Portfolio Management, formerly ITBM)
  → Focused on project/portfolio management, good for those interested in governance and strategy.

[DGAJ · Accepted solution]

Hi @rakshithar9 ,

After passing the CSA exam, many people from non-coding or techno-functional backgrounds grow by taking specialization certifications like CIS in ITSM(Core), HR, or CSM, which focus more on process and platform usage than development.

Skills in Performance Analytics, Flow Designer, and Service Catalog design are also helpful, as they allow you to build reports and automate workflows without needing to code.

These paths help you work effectively with ServiceNow while staying focused on functional and business oriented roles.

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[Nikhil Bajaj9]

Hi @rakshithar9 ,

It depends on which career track you are in or want to be. If you are into Development of Portal then Service Portal Micro certification is for you. If you want to be application developer then - CAD, if you want more insight into ITSM than CIS-ITSM is for you. If you want general understanding of complete ServiceNow ecosystem then you can go with other micro certifications like- CMDB, Flow Designer, ATF etc. If you want to go for BA/BPC journey so you can start BPC journey on Now leanring. If you are interested in anhy other module like- HRSD, ITOM than there CIS certification. 

Below Micro Certification available in  Now Learning Platform.

1.  Welcome to Servicenow

2.  Predictive Intelligence 

3.  Virtual Agent

4.  Automated Test Framework

5. Flow Designer

6. Integration Hub

7. Performance Analytics

8. Service Portal

9. Agile Development

10. Application Developer Process Creator

11. Citizen Developer Application Creator

[kaushal_snow]

Hi @rakshithar9 ,

If you’re coming from a non coding background and just passed CSA, I’d advise not diving into heavily customized apps right away because you'll end up writing lots of scripts, complex business logic, and debugging, instead stick with configuration, low code features, process & domain certifications (CIS-ITSM, HRSD, CSM, etc.), master Flow Designer, Now assist, pa, scripting basics, and build credibility in functional/administration areas....

If you found my response helpful, please mark it as ‘Accept as Solution’ and ‘Helpful’. This helps other community members find the right answer more easily and supports the community.

[AndersBGS]

Hi @rakshithar9 ,

 it really depends on your ambitions and what you would like to work with in relation to the platform… I’d it the CMDB, implementation… etc…. What are you aiming for?