Subject: Path to Become a ServiceNow Developer – Guidance Needed

[cs2022diatm]

Body: Hello everyone,

I’ve just started studying ServiceNow and have applied for the RiseUp program because I’m looking for detailed, tailored mentorship and training. I understand selection is not in my hands, so meanwhile I want to continue learning on my own.

Could you please guide me on the right path to become a ServiceNow developer?

• Is the CSA (Certified System Administrator) exam the first step?

• What other certifications or learning tracks should I follow after CSA if my goal is to work as a developer?

• How can I practically implement my skills and get hands-on experience as a beginner?

• How to join any internship provided by service now so that my Hands-On would be great

I’m very new to this ecosystem, so any advice on structured learning, certifications, or community resources would mean a lot. Please forgive me if I’ve made any mistakes in my message—I’m eager to learn and improve.

Thank you in advance for your guidance!

[AndersBGS · Accepted solution]

Hi @cs2022diatm ,

Yes, CSA and CAD is the first step to get the certifications - but remember, certifications doesn't make you a developer. Experience does.

[Dr Atul G- LNG · Accepted solution]

Hi @cs2022diatm 

Greetings!

I am a ServiceNow trainer and would be happy to guide you.

ServiceNow is expanding both in depth and breadth these days, so moving forward, career planning needs to be done very carefully.

Anyone who wants to start their career in ServiceNow should begin with the basics—ServiceNow Administration. This helps participants understand the platform, terminology, core concepts, architecture, and foundational knowledge that is used across all ServiceNow products. At this stage, you can prepare for the CSA (Certified System Administrator) certification. There are dedicated CSA courses available on Now Learning, either as individual courses or guided learning journeys—you can choose what suits you best.

After completing CSA, the next step depends on the direction you want to take—development or a specific product specialization.
If you want to move into development, CAD (Certified Application Developer) is the next step. This focuses on development concepts, scripting, and other coding-related aspects of ServiceNow.

After that, you can choose any product based on your interest and demand, such as ITSM (which is widely required), CSM, HRSD, GRC, or any other ServiceNow product, and continue growing in that direction.

As a foundation, CSA → CAD is a good path to follow.

Additionally, if you do not want to go into development, there are other career options such as Business Analyst (BA), Business Process Consultant (BPC) (I am a BPC), Technical Support Specialist, or Change Manager (OCM).

System Administrator Career Journey - ServiceNow University

Application Developer Career Journey - ServiceNow University

[Dr Atul G- LNG · Accepted solution]

Hi @cs2022diatm 

This is something i answered in one of my post:

1. What’s the correct learning order — for example, should I start with CSA (Certified System Administrator) or first learn ITSM / FSM / HRSD, etc.? -

Atul: Answered in my previous reply

1. How to plan the journey from a beginner level to a ServiceNow Developer / Admin professional?

Atul: Answered in my previous reply

1. Any recommended learning path (modules, documentation, or projects) on Now Learning or elsewhere that can help build a solid foundation?

Atul: Answered in my previous reply , along this you can follow my channel as well, where you will get dedicated CSA training batch, scripting playlist , ITSM , HRSD and many other courses.

1. Also, how much scripting knowledge (like JavaScript or Glide APIs) is needed initially?

Atul: If you are opting for a development role, scripting is a must. I have shared a few links that you can follow to build your scripting knowledge. In ServiceNow, JavaScript is primarily used, so you only need to focus on learning that.

[Dr Atul G- LNG · Accepted solution]

hi @cs2022diatm 

I’m a ServiceNow trainer and happy to share my thoughts.

As you mentioned that you’re the sole developer in your company, I see this as a great opportunity for you to learn and grow. You already hold CSA and CAD certifications, which is commendable. It's also a great self-awareness point that you feel your JavaScript skills need improvement—recognizing that is the first step toward growth.

Here are a few tips:

1. Follow this master playlist to strengthen your JavaScript skills specifically for the ServiceNow platform. 

https://youtu.be/62Nabpb94Jw?si=FqBwRN2B8C71aYHr

1. Spend at least 1–2 hours daily on the ServiceNow Community. Observe the kinds of technical questions being asked and how experienced members respond. You’ll learn a lot passively this way—and I highly encourage you to start answering questions as well. Explaining concepts to others will improve your technical thinking and deepen your understanding.

1. Explore the free courses available on the ServiceNow Developer Site. These are practical and focused, and will help you apply your knowledge directly on the platform.

2. https://developer.servicenow.com/dev.do#!/learn/learning-plans/yokohama/citizen_developer
3. https://developer.servicenow.com/dev.do#!/learn/learning-plans/yokohama/servicenow_application_devel...

[AndersBGS · Accepted solution]

Hi @cs2022diatm ,

Yes, CSA and CAD is the first step to get the certifications - but remember, certifications doesn't make you a developer. Experience does.

[cs2022diatm]

Thanking you brother

But like experience is gained through working and to work (to enter any organisation) you need certification 

What's the other option??

[Dr Atul G- LNG · Accepted solution]

Hi @cs2022diatm 

Greetings!

I am a ServiceNow trainer and would be happy to guide you.

ServiceNow is expanding both in depth and breadth these days, so moving forward, career planning needs to be done very carefully.

Anyone who wants to start their career in ServiceNow should begin with the basics—ServiceNow Administration. This helps participants understand the platform, terminology, core concepts, architecture, and foundational knowledge that is used across all ServiceNow products. At this stage, you can prepare for the CSA (Certified System Administrator) certification. There are dedicated CSA courses available on Now Learning, either as individual courses or guided learning journeys—you can choose what suits you best.

After completing CSA, the next step depends on the direction you want to take—development or a specific product specialization.
If you want to move into development, CAD (Certified Application Developer) is the next step. This focuses on development concepts, scripting, and other coding-related aspects of ServiceNow.

After that, you can choose any product based on your interest and demand, such as ITSM (which is widely required), CSM, HRSD, GRC, or any other ServiceNow product, and continue growing in that direction.

As a foundation, CSA → CAD is a good path to follow.

Additionally, if you do not want to go into development, there are other career options such as Business Analyst (BA), Business Process Consultant (BPC) (I am a BPC), Technical Support Specialist, or Change Manager (OCM).

System Administrator Career Journey - ServiceNow University

Application Developer Career Journey - ServiceNow University

[cs2022diatm]

Thank you sir 

Honestly, the most special thing I’ve found in ServiceNow so far is the Community. For a complete fresher like me, it feels like a shield—everyone is helping each other, answering doubts, and guiding us step by step.

I’m just starting with Administration Fundamentals and aiming for CSA, so I don’t know much yet. But seeing how supportive this community makes me feel confident that I can grow here.