The New Generation of Microsoft Certifications
The new generation of Microsoft certification consists of three series and four credentials, shown below.
The Technology Series:
There are currently seven Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist certifications, which consist of one to three exams.
1. Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Web Applications
2. Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Windows Applications
3. Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 2.0 Distributed Applications
4. Technology Specialist: SQL Server 2005
5. Technology Specialist: BizTalk Server 2006
6. Technology Specialist: Microsoft Office Live Communications Server 2005
7. Technology Specialist: Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 Applications
The Professional Series:
There are currently two professional series certifications, which consist of one to three exams.
1. Microsoft Certified IT Professional
2. Microsoft Certified Professional Developer
The Architect Series:
The Microsoft Certified Architect Program professionals will have to meet certain minimum requirements, such as minimum of 10 years of advanced IT industry experience, at least three or more years of experience as a practicing architect, strong technical and managerial skills, and they’ll need to form an elite community. Unlike other industry certifications, the architect community is the one that grants these certifications. Previously, certified architects will be the members of the Review Board that will assign these credentials.
The Architect Series certifications:
1. Require a rigorous entry process.
2. Require working closely with a Microsoft Certified Architect who acts as a mentor.
3. Require an oral review in front of a Review Board that consists of previously certified peer architects.
4. Require recertification.
More information on the architect program is available here. According to Microsoft, the application process for this certification is closed for now but it will reopen to the public in early 2007.
