As the leader in PC operating systems, desktop applications, and development tools, Microsoft has quite an incentive to keep professional IT people well trained in their array of products. Because of this, they offer a huge array or courses and certification programs to train people in their software and development tools. They have programs for web developers, database administrators, system administrators, database developers, BI developers, MS SQL consultants, and more. Below is a sampling list of some of the programs they offer:
MCTS: Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist - provides and certifies expertise in the various Microsoft technologies.
MCPD: The Microsoft Certified Professional Developer - trains and certifies you as an expert Windows Application Developer, Web Application Developer, or Enterprise Applications Developer using .NET Framework 2.0.
MCSA: Microsoft Certified Systems Administrators - train to administer network and systems environments based on the Windows platforms. Specializations include Messaging and Security.
MCSE: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers - trained and certified to design and implement an infrastructure solution based on the Windows platform and Microsoft Windows Server System software.
MCDBA: Microsoft Certified Database Administrator - trained and certified to design, implement, and administer Microsoft SQL Server databases.
MCT: Microsoft Certified Trainers - qualified instructors certified by Microsoft to deliver Microsoft training courses to IT professionals and developers.
For example, for the MCDBA certification, database administrators, analysts, and database developers earn a credential based upon passing 3 core exams and one elective exam that demonstrates their technical expertise in the implementation and administration of MS SQL Server databases. The core exams include a SQL Server administration exam and a SQL Server design exam, and either a Windows 2000 Server of Windows 2003 Server exam. Normally, candidates for these programs work in medium to large IT environments using SQL Server Enterprise Edition and have at least one year of experience working as a database administrator and one year of building relational databases in client/server configurations of 50-5,000 users.
Where to sign up for MS Training and Certification Programs
Obviously, depending on your career and career goals, not every certification program will be applicable. Your employer might require specific certifications in order to be considered for employment or particular promotions. Like most certification and training programs, simply listing it on your resume generally gives you a leg up on candidates who lack the same, and it demonstrates your commitment to working in the IT field. Microsoft also offer e-learning courses, allowing you to download and study the material online at your own pace, with courses ranging from Designing Security for MS Networks to Visual Studio 2005 to Advanced Training for MS Excel. Microsoft lets your search for training programs in your area here.
How much do these MS Certification courses cost? Good question, as there is not a fixed price list. Prices vary and are determined by MS training partners, based upon their experience and value of the course. Actual exams normally cost about $125. You can also check out some online certification sites like TurboCert.com, which offer computer based training in areas like MCDST, MCSE, MCDBA, and SQL Server 2000. NewHorizons.com is another training provider, covering most of the MS Certification programs. Finally, for more news and information, check out the MCPMag.com, Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine, with all kinds of news about classes, exams, salary surveys, and more.
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