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By: Ryan Corey | Date: 07/29/08
Tags: Systems Administration, Microsoft Corporation, MCSE
MCSE has been regarded as one of the best certifications an individual could possess in the networking industry, but now all of that is about to change. With the retirement of several exams over the last few years, Microsoft is introducing a “new generation” of Microsoft certifications that are designed to provide more focused detail that is targeted on a specific area of expertise.
This new generation of certifications has four series and five credentials and will give IT managers more flexibility and a more efficient framework. This will enable them to develop and validate their skills on an advanced level technically and professionally with an emphasis on network system architecture. The goal is to allow IT professionals to have a cost-efficient means to display their expertise.
Microsoft recognizes that individuals with unique skills exist outside of the IT industry as well. Technology trainers, IT developers, office personnel and home users of technology can all benefit by validating their hands-on experience through certification. The certifications that are available include almost every Microsoft application.
The Technology Series certifications allow professionals to use specific technologies and demonstrate their in-depth knowledge and skill.
Microsoft Technology Specialists have the ability to implement, build, troubleshoot and debug a particular Microsoft technology.
The Technology Series certifications are focused on a key Microsoft product or technology, have one to three exams but do not include job skills. This certification will be retired when mainstream product support for the related technology expires. There are several MCTS certifications available today.
This certification validates a specific skillset required to be productive, such as: design, project management, operations management and planning. These certifications are focused on a single job, consist of one to three exams and have one or more prerequisites from the Technology Series.
The Microsoft Certified Master program is designed to recognize the experienced IT professionals who are able to successfully design and implement solutions that meet the most demanding business challenge. The Master Series certifications have prerequisite exams from the Technology Series and Professional Series and require the candidate to attend and complete all training culminating in a final qualification lab exam. These certifications are focused on a single technology platform.
The Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) program identifies the top industry experts in IT architecture with a minimum of ten years of advanced IT industry experience. They have three or more years of experience as a practicing architect, with a strong grasp of technical and managerial skills. Individuals must pass a rigorous review by the Review Board of certified peer architects. The Architect Series certification has a rigorous and competitive entry process and requires intensive work with a mentor who is a Microsoft Certified Architect. The process culminates in an oral review in front of previously certified architects and requires a certification refresh.
