Microsoft New Generation Certification

Microsoft's New Generation Certification framework was created to be more targeted, relevant and cost-effective. Individuals can more quickly acquire relevant credentials to prove their expertise and managers can more easily distinguish candidates who meet specific job criteria.

The New Generation Certification framework introduces three series of credentials:

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), the first series, validates core technology and product skills—features, functions and implementation.

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) or Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) make up the second series. Your technology focus determines which of these titles you receive. This series validates specific job-role skills outside of core technology, such as operational processes and procedures and analyzing business problems. Individuals who have current, related Microsoft certifications will be able to follow an upgrade path directly to this series.

Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) is the third series. The requirements for this credential are rigorous and culminates in an oral review by a prestigious board. Candidates for this certification will also need to prove that they have been working in IT for 10 years and acting in an architect capacity for at least 3 years.

Comparison of Older and New Generation Certifications

Unlike older certification programs, the New Generation certifications require less time to achieve, have fewer exams, and are more focused. Microsoft took into account client feedback when they designed the New Generation model.

Take a look at the specific changes...

Feature	Older Certifications		New Generation Certifications
Time Commitment	Certifications could require 20 to 30 days of training.	vs.	Certifications can be earned with as little as 5 days of training and a single exam.
Exams	Could require 5 or more exams.	vs.	Most certifications are earned with one or two exams.
Electives	There were many electives associated with premium certification. As a result, the same certification could represent differing qualifications.	vs.	Each certification path is clearly defined with no options. Additional certifications take the place of elective tracks for specialization.
Product vs. Job Role Focus	Certifications were product centric. Large premium certifications contained information that wasn't relevant to an individual's job role.	vs.	The Technology Specialist certifications (first series) provide a core background for a product. The second series certifications of Professional are job-role based.
Excess Material	Courses were produced independently of each other. As a result many courses contained overlapping content.	vs.	Courses were designed as a series so that redundant material would not be contained in multiple classes.

Becoming New Generation Certified
You must pass the authorized exam(s) to achieve Microsoft certification. The best way to prepare for the exams is with authorized, instructor-led training.

ONLC Training Centers is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner. We have been delivering authorized, instructor-led training since Microsoft first introduced certifications.

Attend class at any of our training locations or from your home or office computer with our Remote Classroom Instruction (RCI). RCI is live synchronous, hands-on training. Contact an Education Advisor at the toll free number for more details or to request this delivery option.

The New Generation certifications are based on specific Microsoft technologies. Choose from the links in the left column or from this list to see the available certifications, required exams, authorized courses, and more...

Save on Training & Certification
Our PAKs give you great savings on the things you need.

A ClassPAK combines a specific group of classes into one money-saving purchase. Use the ClassPAK as an economical way to prepare for skills needed on the job or for Microsoft certification.

If you've purchased the ClassPAK, you have the opportunity of also purchasing the ExamPAK. This bundle gives you incredible savings on the most requested certification exam prep aids—exam voucher, exam retake, practice exams and additional lab time.

All training at ONLC also comes with a satisfaction guarantee and a free second look option. Contact our Education Advisors at the toll free number for more details or to order.

1.800.288.8221
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Other Microsoft Certifications
If you are currently on a path to certification, Microsoft recommends that you continue pursuing your current credential. Where appropriate, an upgrade option toward the next credentials will be available.

Professionals who hold any currently recognized Microsoft certification do not need to renew their credentials. Your current credentials will be recognized as long as they are in demand, and they will continue to be supported by Microsoft.

Note: It is expected that there will be an upgrade option from Windows Server 2003 certification to the new release (code name Longhorn) once that product is available. No upgrade paths are anticipated from Windows 2000 or Windows XP to the Longhorn version. Contact our Education Advisors at the toll free number if you have questions.

More Certification Details
To learn more about Microsoft New Generation certification...

Matrix of Microsoft New Generation Certifications (at a glance)

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