MCSE or MCITP

[shadow_man]

Hi Guys,

Whats the difference?

Is MCSE being semi retired for MCITP? I see one can do MCSE and then upgrade to MCITP. Considering that should I just go straight for MCITP?

Which is a more recognized certificate? I would think the old MCSE would hold me in good stead...

What is your view on this.

Thanks
J

--
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Certified_Professional#Latest_MCP_Certifications

MCSA and MCSE Transitions

MCSA and MCSE certifications will not be retired. Microsoft has introduced a transition path to allow MCSA/MCSE holders to obtain MCITP certification. Both certifications require a transitional exam. To upgrade a MCSA, the 70-648 exam is required as well as one additional exam for MCITP: Server Administrator and three additional exams for the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. To upgrade a MCSE the 70-649 is required as well as one additional exam for MCITP: Server Administrator and two additional exams for the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator. . [10]

 

[Basjohn]

I'm currently on my MCITP path (writing last of my SA exams on monday and then 2 exams from EA) so I might be a tad biased....but in my opinion.....

Both have their own qualities. There is no doubt MCSE and MCSA are more recognised and valued RIGHT NOW but that's because they've been in the industry for 8 odd or more years whereas MCITP has just spawned. There is little doubt however that MCITP will be more valued in the long run as you are learning a newer technology that will be in demand for transition and maintenance given time.

What I do (or plan to do assuming I pass 70-646 and the remainders) is simply write MCITP:SA (MCSA 2008) on my CV for now. It's not a lie as it is the direct descendant of that qualification aaaand it helps the less "in the know" employers understand the value of what you hold.

 

[Basjohn]

Oh and also, MCITP:EA and SA are far more practically/understanding orientated than their older counterparts which are technology orientated. This means *more* questions testing knowledge within a puzzle/problem solving scenario rather than something like "What is the character limit when naming a computer running windows xp?"

Which means it's a bit harder to study but I think a little more worthwhile when you do actually manage it.

 

[Conradl]

The new exams are for the new software products. As a rule of thumb I suggest that you always write the most recent exams. However, Windows 2003 is going to be with us for a long time yet and a certification in that would still be worthwhile.

Rather do the latest MCITP, most employers will see the latest certs as encompassing the previous software versions, i.e. most will assume that a person certified in Windows 2008 understands 2003/2000/NT4....

 

[Other Pineapple Smurf]

I cannot comment on what is the most employable but just remember that you will be writing exams for the rest of your life to keep your qualifications current and valid.

And this is a good thing, the strength in M$ qualifications.

So even if you do the MCSE now to get employed you will be need to write exams in 3 years time anyway so why not upgrade then. But then again having a MCITP might land you a beter job.

(I'm tempted to complete my MCSE but as I'm in a LINUX environment I have the luxury of not having to be stuck in a certain path due to work requirements)

 

[shadow_man]

The new exams are for the new software products. As a rule of thumb I suggest that you always write the most recent exams. However, Windows 2003 is going to be with us for a long time yet and a certification in that would still be worthwhile.

Rather do the latest MCITP, most employers will see the latest certs as encompassing the previous software versions, i.e. most will assume that a person certified in Windows 2008 understands 2003/2000/NT4....

Hmmmm.

I've noticed the opposite that most places reference a MCSE as an advantage or prefer MCSE as its seen to be the older, tried and tested qualification.

Possibly worth it to do MCSE first then upgrade to MCITP , that way i'll have both and should have covered quite a bit of the work / concepts in the original MCSE prior to doing the MCITP...

Thanks for the help so far guys.

Keep the suggestions coming.

Regards,
J