Understanding Microsoft's New Generations of Certifications

The Microsoft MCP, MCSA and MCSE certifications are to be replaced with a "new generation" of certifications for Windows 2008. These new certifications can be divided into three progressive levels: The Technology Series (MCTS - Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist), The Professional Series (MCITP - Microsoft Certified IT Professional) and The Architect Series (MCA - Microsoft Certified Architect).

MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist):

MCTS, the first level of certification, demonstrates the individuals knowledge and skill on a particular Microsoft technology. The MCTS certification can be achieved by passing just one exam on a specific Microsoft topic. Examples of MCTS certifications include: MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Networking Infrastructure Configuration; MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Application Infrastructure; and MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration.

MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional):

The MCTIP (second level certification) is achieved by passing a series of exams. There are two MCTIP certifications, MCITP: Server Administrator and MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. To receive the MCITP: Server Administrator certification, the candidate must pass three specific MCTS exams (earning 3 MCTS certifications along the way). The MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification builds upon the MCITP:Server Administrator certification. The MCITP: Enterprise Administrator candidate must pass the three specific MCTS exams, a Vista MCTS exam and an Enterprise Administrator exam - five exams in all.

MCA (Microsoft Certified Architect):

The MCA certification, designed for industry architects, is Microsoft's highest level of certification. The certification is achieved by applying for and attending 4 weeks of training, passing written and lab based exams and approval from a review board.

Upgrading from MCSA 2003 and MCSE 2003:

What if you already have a Microsoft certification such as the MCSE 2003 or MCSA 2003? You are in luck as there is an easy upgrade path to the "new generation" of certifications. By the passing of just one exam, the MCSE certification upgrades to 3 MCTS certifications. Current MCSE's can also upgrade to the MCITP: Server Administrator by passing 2 exams, and to the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator by passing 3 exams. For MCSA's, the MCSA certification upgrades to 2 MCTS certifications with the passing of only one exam. By passing two exams, an MCSA can upgrade to MCITP: Server Administrator: and by passing four exams upgrade to MCITP: Enterprise Administrator.

Article Source: http://www.articleadventure.com

Sharon Toler is Certification Coordinator for AmeriTeach, a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner for Learning Solutions in Denver, Colorado. For additional information on Microsoft Certifications, visit here.

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