Evergreen IT Certifications Part II

In this article, the second in our IT Training sub-series presenting the Top 10 evergreen certifications IT pros should consider to further their careers, we detail the Microsoft Certified IT Professional and Technology Specialist accreditations.

See Part I for information on how to become a Cisco Certified Internet Expert and Network Associate as well as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. We launched our extensive IT training, education  and certification series with a comprehensive overview of Training Options for IT Pros.

IT professionals seeking recognition as experts in the realm of Microsoft technologies will almost certainly want to consider obtaining the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) credential.

MCITP credential holders are recognized industry-wide as possessing the technical skills, expertise, and knowledge necessary to perform complex roles using Microsoft technologies. Employers depend on MCITP professionals to solve difficult problems requiring innovative resolutions, design systems and complex solutions, build and deploy, as well as operate and maintain Microsoft based systems, and optimize technology performance.  

As with the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), the MCITP comes in various certification flavors, all designed to meet the demanding requirements facing advanced level Microsoft professionals in today’s every changing technology environment. Current MCITP certification paths include:  Windows Client, Windows Server, SQL Server, Office Project Server, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, and Lync Server. An advanced credential, the MCITP builds on the foundational skills developed at the MCTS certification level. In addition to obtaining several MCTS certifications, MCITP credential seekers must also pass all relevant exams relating to their area of expertise. The number of exams required to obtain the MCITP credential vary based on specialization. In most instances, exams cost $150 USD each.

The MCITP offers credential holders numerous benefits – recognition from peers, establishment as an expert in Microsoft technology, prestige, and validation of technical skills and knowledge. In addition, the MCITP credential has real life benefits in terms of earning potential and the access for new jobs or promotions. According to Microsoft, 43 percent of all Microsoft credential holders report increase their earning power after obtaining Microsoft certifications while another 57 percent indicate that they expected to receive bonuses. In addition, employers view certified professionals as being more productive than non-certified counterparts, making certified individuals valuable-and highly sought after-team members.