Microsoft's Certification Program Features New MCTS Tracks and Exams

Microsoft's certification is undergoing a major overhaul with all new certification tracks and a plan for phasing out the familiar MCSE certifications. This new program is similar to Cisco's certification program where the general CCNA features specialist certifications followed by mid-level of credentials like the CCNPWhich are followed by the expert CCIE level.

In Microsoft's case, the MCTS certification and its specializations are the starting point. As of December 2007, Microsoft has 20 different MCTS certifications including three new ones (MCTS: Managing Projects with Microsoft Office Project 2007, MCTS: Enterprise Project Management with Microsoft Office Project Server 2007, and MCTS: Microsoft Forefront Client and Server, Configuration).

With each new certification, candidates must pass from one to several certification exams making the need for MCTS training essential for success.

Why mess with the certification program in the first place? According to information found on Microsoft's website, Microsoft believes that it is difficult for IT hiring managers to determine which computer certifications best align potential job candidates with their business requirements. This new series of certifications can help hiring managers find candidates with the specific skills that address the systems the employer currently has in place.

These targeted certifications should also help job candidates easily prove that they have the skills to do the job. This should make it easier for the hiring manager select a well-matched applicant.

Microsoft provides several upgrade paths for existing MCSEs on Windows 2003 to upgrade their skills to the new Windows Server 2008 MCTS certification which involves taking either one large exam (70-649) or several individual exams. While you can take the upgrade path to the MCTS level, if you want to progress to the higher professional level (MCITP) you will need to follow the regular path by taking courses and passing additional exams.

For MCSEs with older technologies that pre-date Windows Server 2003, no upgrade path exists. These MCSEs will need to undergo MCTS training and take the required exams, essentially starting from scratch.

It's important to stay on top of the latest Microsoft certification changes and pay attention - these new certifications expire!