The New Microsoft Certifications (MCTS,
MCITP, MCM, and MCA)

There are now four levels of “new” certifications: The Microsoft Certified
Architect, Microsoft Certified Master Series, Microsoft Certified
Information Technology Professional and the Microsoft Certified
Technology Specialist.



Architect Series: The Certified Architect program makes it easy for companies to
identify experienced IT architects who have completed a rigorous peer review
process Master Series: Master certifications identify individuals with the
deepest technical skills available on a particular Microsoft product.

Technology Series: Specialist certifications train IT professionals in
implementation, building, troubleshooting, and debugging of a specific Microsoft
technology.

Professional Series: Professional credentials validate the skill set required
for a particular job.

The Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) is not a certification many will
achieve as it is not designed as
such. There are only 198 MCAs (as of 9 July 2008) worldwide, and they go through
a rigorous evaluation process (exam and board review).

Then there is the recently announced Microsoft Certified Masters Program (MCM).
There are currently
three tracks available: Exchange 2007, SQL 2008, and Windows Server 2008, with
two more coming out
soon: Office Communication Server 2007 and SharePoint 2007. You will have to
have your certified
Masters Certificate to apply for any of the MCA technical tracks. The Certified
Master shows that you have a very deep understanding as an expert on a specific
product. If you earn this certification, it demonstrates that you can design and
implement highly complex business solutions.

The Microsoft Certified Information Technology Professional (MCITP)
demonstrates your knowledge and ability to work on a “comprehensive set of
Microsoft technologies”5

The Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
is earned by taking a test on a particular product and demonstrates that you
have a deep understanding and knowledge of that product. It is also expected
that you perform day-to-day operations and are involved in short-term planning.