MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist):



MCTS, the first level of certification, demonstrates the individuals knowledge and skill on a particular Microsoft technology. The MCTS certification can be achieved by passing just one exam on a specific Microsoft topic. Examples of MCTS certifications include: MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Networking Infrastructure Configuration; MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Application Infrastructure; and MCTS: Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration.

MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional):

The second level of certification, MCITP is achieved by passing a series of exams. The MCITP is meant to demonstrate the individual's particular area of knowledge. There is a MCITP: Server Administrator certification and a MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification. To receive the MCITP: Server Administrator certification, the candidate must pass three specific MCTS exams (earning 3 MCTS certifications along the way). The MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification builds upon the Server Administrator certification. The candidate must pass the three specific MCTS exams, as well as a Vista MCTS exam, and an Enterprise Administrator exam - for a total of five exams.

MCA (Microsoft Certified Architect):

The highest level of certification, the MCA, is designed for industry architects. The certification is achieved by applying for and attending 4 weeks of training, passing written and lab based exams and approval from a review board.

Upgrading from legacy certifications MCSA 2003 and MCSE 2003:

If you have a "legacy" certification, such as the MCSE 2003 or MCSA 2003, you can easily upgrade to the "new generation" of certifications. The MCSE upgrades to 3 MCTS certifications with the passing of one exam. Current MCSE 2003s can upgrade to the MCITP Server Administrator by passing 2 exams, and the Enterprise Administrator by passing 3 exams. The MCSA upgrades to 2 MCTS certifications with the passing of one exam. MCSA's must pass two exams to become a MCITP: Server Administrator and four exams to become a MCITP: Enterprise Administrator.