MicroNugget: What are Microsoft MCSA and MCSE Certs?

In this video, James Conrad covers how to think about and approach earning administrator and expert-level Microsoft operating system certifications. Moving through Microsoft's certified solutions expert certifications requires foresight and planning, James helps show how to plan for climbing the ladder of exams.

Microsoft certifications have a history of coming and going, and the certs mentioned in this video are no different - some have already retired. Nevertheless, the strategy for approaching the certifications remains useful. Before you set out and try to navigate the pyramid of Microsoft certifications, you should plan ahead for which certification you want to end with, which technologies you'll have to master, and what exams you'll need to prepare for.

Knowing and understanding what each subsequent exam will require of you can help you move with purpose through your continued training and education. Plan ahead by getting a sense of the landscape ahead of you and how to earn the certifications that can define your career.

Start learning with CBT Nuggets:

[cbtnuggets]

Trolleo McTroll - The MTA is a valid certification. For people new to IT, it helps them become more familiar with core concepts and technologies without being overwhelmed. In addition, MTA knowledge is foundational to MCSA/MCSE. As long as they're interested in MCSA/MCSE, might as well get MTA on the way. 

College or IT school is a commitment that isn't necessary for any of these certs. Our videos are more than enough :)

You do not need to work for an IT company from what I can see on the prometric.com site. Hope that helps. 

[cbtnuggets]

Gustavo, Thanks for you question. Which 2 MS certifications are you inquiring about? Could you be a little more specific and provide us with the exam number? We want to be able to give you the most accurate information.

[TrolleoMcTroll]

>  I have some questions:

1)  I have heard that I should shoot for the MCSE; but I would prefer to first get the MTA to make sure I am solid on the basics as my understanding is the MTA is little more than a watered down MCSA (not even sure if the MTA is worth bothering...)

2)  If I go for either MCSA or MTA,   should I self study and take the exam, or would it be more beneficial to get into a college or IT school?  Is self study enough or a waste of time with these kind of exams?

3) Lastly, I checked out Microsoft's website for example on scheduling any of these tests, and they require you to submit a sponsor in-order to schedule. I have no sponsor and *I am not* working for an IT company, so how could I self study and then schedule an exam?? Very confusing to me, sorry this is long.

[KabooM]

holy crap this is old
why are there no new content on Microsoft Certs? I really need a microsoft cert to go with my CCNA or my chances at finding a job are significantly lower... I don't know which exams to take... there are way too many. Should I just focus on the server certs?

[MegaWooHa]

Always enjoy your video's James. Look forward to the new 2k12 vids :-)

[macrotecHN]

Hi I want to learn to manage Win Server y see they are 2 certifications of MS: MTA and MCSA which one is better or what are their difference ?

[Shaun_X]

Hi I have an aptitude for electronics but have never taken an exam to be IT certified. So I would like to know, if I skip the Comptia A+ and study for the 70-410 of the MCSA, would that be enough to get in the door of employers? While I study for the rest of the exams to complete the MCSA. Your videos are great by the way, used then to study for the A+ which I don't plan on taking.

[justChuka]

Don't say harder.

Try and encourage them.

You sound like you bluff a lot.

Change your persona....u r a teacher