MCSE

Article Date: 12/10/2011

What Comes After MCSE?

Technologies keep on getting better, and this requires computer science and information technology professionals to pursue continuous learning and training. Specializations and certifications could become outdated after a few years, which means that professionals should update their skills and have it validated.

For instance, a certification on MCSE or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer, which involves mastery of technical know-how on Windows Server 2003 and Microsoft Windows 2000 Server design, implementation, and administration, has already been retired last year. Microsoft encourages a newer validation called the MCITP or Microsoft Certified IT Professional certification, which measures expertise in newer technologies such as Exchange Server 2010, Windows Server 2008, or SQL Server 2008.

Difference Between MCSE And MCITP

A certification in MCITP means that an IT professional is equipped with all the required skills to deploy, design, enhance, and operate technological resources related to his or her job role. It surely strengthens one's resume and provides doors to salary increases, bonuses, and other job perks. With websites and computers becoming more important in business operations, many MCITP certified professionals literally have a tall stairway of career promotions and progressions.

Selecting a learning center where one can update his or her technical knowledge and skills is no doubt an important aspect in ensuring successful certification. Today, almost all IT institutions in Singapore boast of a plethora of approaches in training—classroom, online, hybrid, self-paced, fast-paced, interactive, etc.

MCSE And MCITP: Essentials Of Obtaining Computer Certifications

In the end however what matters most is that the chosen school is a Microsoft Learning Partner. This ensures that the training materials and methodologies of the school are following Microsoft's standards. These standards required the school to hire only certified trainers, have the appropriate equipment and facilities, and most of all pass a comprehensive competency assessment.

Obtaining certification is expensive, so flunking exams should not be an option. And while there is no argument to the fact that acquiring new certifications is needed for further career growth, it is important for IT professionals not to forget honing essential skills as well. They need to re-examine and assess their communication, teamwork, and negotiation skills; organizational and management abilities; flexibility and adaptability; and ethical views.