Csaba Toth,
Please find my answers:
Is the OCP superior to OCA (so the OCP upgrade is an upgrade to an existing OCA)?
No.
OCA Java SE 7 is basic level certification and it is required for taking OCP Java SE 7.
Read this article about OCA Java SE 7 Certification =>
http://www.epractizelabs.com/blog2/?p=413
Read this article about OCP Java SE 7 Certification =>
http://www.epractizelabs.com/blog2/?p=413
Note that Oracle yet to launch OCP Java SE 7 Certification and it is planned sometimes in December.
Upgrade exam is only for OCP and it requires OCP Java Programmer certification (or Sun Java programmer certification) for any version.
Read this article about OCP Java SE 7 Upgrade Exam =>
http://www.epractizelabs.com/blog2/?p=397
What's the difference between the programmer and the developer certifications?
Programmer certification is multiple choice exam type. The exams discussed above are programmer certifications.
Developer exam is assignment type. You need to complete a Project (Step 1 of 2) and Essay Exam (Step 2 of 2) to achieve this certification.
Read more about Developer Certification =>
http://www.epractizelabs.com/blog2/?p=128
3. Is it enough to learn on my own with a training lab (like I did with the MS Self Paced Training Kits + of course I have my work experience)? Or do I have to participate and take a course to be able to eligible to take a test?
Training Lab is enough to prepare for your certification.
Training Lab provides enough information about certification/exam objectives
Set goals against each exam topics for your preparation
Set schedule for your preparation and measure your progress
Start your preparation from Pre Measurement Exam
Basic Sessions (e-book format) and Quiz for each Certification objectives
Advanced Sessions (e-book format) and Quiz for each Certification objectives
Take quiz exam to improve your grasping and time to answer a question
Practice mock exam questions by defined or customization based on Expert Levels
Post Measurement exam to judge your confidence for actual exam
Complete your preparation with Focus Lab
Review your progress over time and accurately assess your preparation
Tracks your goals, schedules and get recommendations
4. How much does an exam cost (the exam alone and additional costs if I have to participate in a training for example)?
Please refer Oracle's site.
5. If anyone have MCPD certifications too: how would you compare a Java programmer/developer certification exam to a MS exam?
I don't have knowledge in MCPD certification.
Please find the benefits of Java certification.
What are the benefits I can achieve after completing this exam?
• Clear evidence that you can enter into an application development or a software project career using Java technologies.
• The certification empowers in application development using Java programming language, and general knowledge of Java Platforms and Technologies.
• Being a
OCAJP 7 certified developer helps you to improve your career potential, gain more respect, and
boost up your job security and opportunities.
• With OCAJP 7 certified professional, you become more competitive in the job market.
What are the benefits my employer can achieve after completing this exam?
• Enables management to distinguish OCAJP 7 certified programmer as Java professionals who can develop Java applications effectively.
• Helps in deciding the best design and development APIs or Java Components based on latest Java SE APIs.
• More confidence to work on Java Code technical decisions with business partners.
• Enables project team to get best practices and guidance from a qualified Java Associate.
Good luck !!!