MATLAB represents a programming platform and language developed by MathWorks designed for technical computing. It's an abbreviation of "matrix laboratory," referring to a matrix-based language. Matrixes are data structures used to solve many technical computing problems more efficiently than other scalar-based programming languages. With the MATLAB language, developers can analyze and explore data, do matrix manipulations, plot data and functions visually, develop and implement algorithms, create user interfaces, and complete applications. They can also create machine learning models and interact with programs written in other languages. MATLAB is the tool of choice for many data scientists, engineers, scientists, and academics because of its advanced mathematical features.

There are many benefits to the MATLAB language, especially for technical computing. MATLAB was designed specifically for the scientific and mathematical fields, offering a vast database of built-in algorithms and saving development time. Its toolboxes also extend the functionality of MATLAB with algorithms for specific areas like deep learning, finance, text analytics, and more. Of course, MATLAB can call external libraries like OpenCV to extend its functionality even further. The MATLAB platform also makes it easy for you to implement, test, and debug your algorithms without recompiling your code in an interactive environment. You can also use MATLAB to process still images and video in a wide variety of standard and domain-specific formats.

Mathworks, the company that develops the MATLAB programming platform, offers two types of certifications in MATLAB: Certified MATLAB Associate and Certified MATLAB Professional. The exam you must pass to become a Certified MATLAB Associate consists of multiple-choice questions, and you receive one and a half hours to complete it. It covers MATLAB fundamentals. To take the exam to become a Certified MATLAB Professional, you must already have a MATLAB Associate certification. The Professional exam contains performance-based questions and multiple-choice questions and lasts three and a half hours. You can expect it to cover MATLAB for data processing, MATLAB programming techniques, and building interactive applications with MATLAB. This certification will mean your MATLAB skills are on par with the most advanced MATLAB users.