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.
The Technology Series certifications:
The
Technology Series certifications enable professionals to target
specific technologies and distinguish themselves by demonstrating
in-depth knowledge of and expertise in the broad range of
technologies with which they work. Microsoft Technology Specialists
are consistently capable of implementing, building,
troubleshooting, and debugging a particular Microsoft
technology.
The Technology Series certifications:
- Typically consist of one to three exams.
- Are focused on a key Microsoft product or
technology.
- Do not include job-role skills.
- Will be retired when mainstream product support for the
particular technology expires.
There are currently five Microsoft Certified Technology
Specialist certifications. More will become available as new
technologies are introduced. The five certifications are:
The Professional Series certifications:
Professional Series credentials validate a comprehensive set of
skills required to be successful on the job. These skills include
design, project management, operations management, and planning,
and they are contextual to the job role. By validating a more
comprehensive set of skills, these credentials give candidates and
their hiring managers a reliable indicator of on-the-job
performance.
The Professional Series certifications:
- Typically consist of one to three exams.
- Have one or more prerequisites from the Technology
Series.
- Are focused on single job role.
- Require recertification to maintain active status.
Microsoft currently offers two Professional series
credentials:
The Architect Series certifications:
The
Microsoft Certified Architect Program identifies top industry
experts in IT architecture. These prestigious professionals have a
minimum of 10 years of advanced IT industry experience, have 3 or
more years of experience as a practicing architect, possess strong
technical and managerial skills, and form an elite community.
Unlike other industry certifications, this credential was built and
is granted by the architect community. Candidates must pass a
rigorous review by the Review Board, which is made up of previously
certified peer architects.
The Architect Series certifications:
- Have a rigorous and competitive entry process.
- Require the candidate to work closely with a mentor who is a
Microsoft Certified Architect.
- Culminate in an oral review in front of previously certified
architects.
- Require recertification.
Learn
more about the Microsoft Certified Architect
Program