Microsoft certification tracks run the gamut of technology, from entry-level tech and help desk to large-scale network design and implementation. The MCP designation is the first rung on the Microsoft certification ladder. An MCP has the skills necessary to implement and support Microsoft products and operating systems. The next level is the newly created MCSA. This is a systems administrator who can build, implement, manage and maintain existing Microsoft networks and systems. Microsoft certifications also cover database skills (MCDBA), developing (MCSD) training (MCT) and the pinnacle of Microsoft certifications the MCSE. At this level, you can expect to have the skills to design and implement the infrastructure for business solutions on Microsoft operating systems.

Studies show that certified IT professionals surpass their non-certified peers in salary and bonus pay, and advance faster in the IT field.

Microsoft Certification Available:

MCP Microsoft Certified Professional. The MCP designation is the first rung on the Microsoft certification ladder. An MCP has the skills necessary to implement and support specific Microsoft products and operating systems.

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.

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

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

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

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 architecture.

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

The Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) credential, part of the Microsoft Business Certification program, identifies specific skills covering the most in-demand 2007 Microsoft Office system products—Microsoft Office Word 2007, Excel 2007, PowerPoint 2007, Access 2007, and Outlook 2007—as well as the Windows Vista operating system.

The MCAS certification is replacing the Microsoft Office Specialist or MOS certification for the Office 2007 Suite.

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