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Old 09-11-2008, 08:42 PM   #17
hoopsguy
General Manager
 
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Chicago
The certs you are looking at are the entry level certs for Microsoft. MCTS and MCP are one-test certifications, while the MCSA is a multi-test program but is considered the "little brother" to the MCSE certification.

This link has a lot of info on the MS certification programs:
Microsoft Certifications Overview: Get the rewards, respect, and recognition you deserve

The Master and Architect stuff is way beyond what you would want to consider when getting started in the industry. The Master program costs $20K on its own and assumes a ton of knowledge on the subject. The Architect program has an expectation of 15+ years of both broad and deep industry experience. Probably 1% of 1% of certified MS professionals are actively pursuing those credentials.

What MCP and MCTS programs are they planning to have you complete? This would help with providing feedback. As Jeff has pointed out, some technologies are more worthwhile on the resume than others.

For the MCSA program, do they include a specialization? There are two: messaging and security. Both the core OS (Windows 2003, no 2008 yet) and the specializations require a total of four exams. The only difference is the "elective" exam.

I agree with the comments by others that taking this class in a vacuum - no experience, no job lined up - doesn't seem like a good use of money. But if you are looking to get into the field and they will place you with an initial opportunity then this sounds a little more appealing.
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