The New Generation of Microsoft Certifications

The new generation of Microsoft certifications is more specific and targeted to reflect the detail of what you do and to prove your expertise to those who need to know.

Consisting of three series and four credentials, the new generation of Microsoft certifications provides a simpler and more targeted framework for IT managers to validate core technical skills, professional skills, and architectural skills. It also provides professionals in the IT industry with a more relevant, flexible, and cost-effective way to showcase their skills.

Training Kits for Microsoft Certification

Microsoft Press delivers a total training solution for Microsoft certifications, including the newest credentials based on the most recent versions of Microsoft products and technologies. Training kits and books from Microsoft Press can help you prepare for your next certification.

The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) credentials enable professionals to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of specific technologies. The Professional Series credentials—Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD)—validate a comprehensive set of skills required to be successful on the job.

Note The Microsoft Business Certification (MSBC) program validates your job skills using the innovative features and functionalities of the 2007 Microsoft Office system, Microsoft Office SharePoint Server sites, and Windows Vista.

Microsoft Press self-paced training kits and books can help you study for certifications on Microsoft products and technologies.

Microsoft Certifications:

MCTS

The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certifications enable professionals to target specific technologies and to distinguish themselves by demonstrating in-depth knowledge and expertise in the various Microsoft specialized technologies.

MCITP

The Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certifications demonstrate comprehensive skills in planning, deploying, supporting, maintaining, and optimizing IT infrastructures.

MCPD

The Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) credentials distinguish you as an expert Windows Application Developer, Web Application Developer, or Enterprise Applications Developer. These credentials demonstrate that you can build rich applications that target a variety of platforms using Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0.

Microsoft Certified Architect Program

The Microsoft Certified Architect Program targets practicing solutions architects and infrastructure architects who successfully apply frameworks and methodologies to create an architecture through the entire IT life cycle.

MCDST

Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technicians (MCDSTs) have the technical and customer service skills to troubleshoot hardware and software operation issues in Microsoft Windows environments.

MCLC

The Microsoft Certified Learning Consultant (MCLC) credential recognizes Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs) whose job roles have grown to include frequent consultative engagements with customers. These MCTs are experts in designing and delivering customized learning solutions.

MCSA

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrators (MCSAs) administer network and systems environments based on the Windows operating systems. Specializations include the MCSA: Messaging and the MCSA: Security.

MCSE

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers (MCSEs) design and implement an infrastructure solution that is based on the Windows operating system and Windows Server System software. Specializations include the MCSE: Messaging and the MCSE: Security.

MCDBA

Microsoft Certified Database Administrators (MCDBAs) design, implement, and administer Microsoft SQL Server databases.

MCT

Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs) are qualified instructors who are certified by Microsoft to deliver Microsoft training courses to IT professionals and developers.

MCAD

Microsoft Certified Application Developers (MCADs) use Microsoft technologies to develop and maintain department-level applications, components, Web or desktop clients, or back-end data services.

MCSD

Microsoft Certified Solution Developers (MCSDs) design and develop leading-edge business solutions with Microsoft development tools, technologies, platforms, and the Windows operating system.

Microsoft Certified Business Management Solutions Specialist

Microsoft Certified Business Management Solutions Specialists demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Dynamics and related business products.

Microsoft Certified Business Management Solutions Professional

Microsoft Certified Business Management Solutions Professionals demonstrate professional proficiency with Microsoft Dynamics in one of three knowledge areas: applications, developer, or installation and configuration.

Microsoft Office Specialist

Microsoft Office Specialists (Office Specialists) are globally recognized for demonstrating advanced skills with Microsoft desktop software.

MCAS

Microsoft Certified Application Specialists (MCAS) have advanced business skills with the 2007 Microsoft Office system as well as with Windows Vista.

MCAP

Microsoft Certified Application Professionals (MCAP) demonstrate advanced cross-industry and cross-job role capabilities using the 2007 Microsoft Office system and Microsoft Office SharePoint Server sites.