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Understanding the new Microsoft Cloud-built Certifications


Microsoft Cloud-built certification pyramid: MCSA, MCSE, MCSD, MCSM

The most recent set of Microsoft certifications are referred to as “Cloud-Built Certifications”. The new name reflects the fact that the certifications now include validation of both cloud-related and on-premises skills, and their integration.

According to a Microsoft press release,

The new certifications align to real-world solutions rather than specific products and validate a broader and deeper set of knowledge and skills. Because many organizations will continue to have a mix of both cloud and on-premise technologies, the new solutions-based approach helps ensure technologists can work with a range of products and services and manage a mixed environment in a way that is seamless for users within and outside their organization.1

There are now three levels of certifications:

The Associate Level

MCSA The “Associate Level” is represented by the MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) certification. This foundational certification is designed to serve as the beginning of the certification process, and to validate the core platform skills needed in an IT environment. The MCSA is for IT professionals or developers looking to get their first job in Microsoft technology.

  • MCSA – Windows Server 2012
  • MCSA – Windows Server 2008
  • MCSA – Windows SQL Server 2012

The Expert Level

MCSE The “Expert” level features two credentials: MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert) and MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer). These certifications are considered to be globally recognized standards of IT excellence, and build on the MCSA.

MCSE: The MCSE is a premiere certification, which distinguishes IT Professionals who can deliver solutions across multiple technologies. MCSE certifications require holders to show continued ability by completing a recertification exam every two to three years.

  • MCSE: Server Infrastructure
  • MCSE: Desktop Infrastructure
  • MCSE: Private Cloud
  • MCSE: SQL Server 2012 (Data Platform or Business Intelligence)

MCSD MCSD: For software developers, the MCSD represents the skills that you have learned and mastered to create solutions on various Microsoft technology platforms.

  • MCSD: Windows Metro Style Apps Using HTML 5
  • MCSD: Web Applications

The Master Level

MCSM The “Master” level is now represented by the MCSM (Microsoft Certified Solutions Master) certification. This credential will be granted to IT professionals who have demonstrated the deepest product expertise, who are expected to provide innovative solutions for large enterprises, using cloud-based, on-premise and hybrid technologies. The first MCSM certifications will be on Microsoft SQL Server 2012, but will eventually also be available to represent mastery of Microsoft Exchange, Lync, Sharepoint and Active Directory.

More

To learn more, contact your New Horizons Account Executive. Visit the Microsoft Learning Website for more details, and to check for the most recent updates.

1 “Microsoft’s Certifications Reinvented for the Cloud”, Microsoft News Center, April 11, 2012