Microsoft certifications are getting a lot of attention these days, so much so that it has become difficult to tell what’s real and what’s not. Some companies are even starting to offer “Microsoft Certified” programs to employees, with no certification required, of course. They’ll train you to use Microsoft products in a certain way and then give you a “certificate” to show that you know how to do it.
Some of the most popular subjects on the technology blogosphere are Microsoft certifications. This is due in large part to the fact that Microsoft offers a variety of certifications, each with its benefits and learning style. Those who have earned their Microsoft certification can go on to develop their skills in a variety of areas, including Microsoft Office, Windows 8, Visual Studio, SQL Server, and more.
The Microsoft Certification program is an excellent way to learn certain technologies, and you can earn a degree of bragging rights by completing the program. However, the program is not without drawbacks, particularly regarding its cost and its efficacy. I was interested in this topic because I was recently asked, “Are Microsoft Certifications Worth It?”
How do we define Microsoft Certification?
Microsoft certifications are a common choice for many IT professionals who are looking to obtain a career-boosting credential that can open doors to better jobs, more pay, and a more rewarding career.
Microsoft certifications are popular among those trying to earn a master’s degree in computer science but don’t want to deal with the hassle of taking classes. This usually involves taking a lot of online exams and then going through a certification exam. Because Microsoft certifications are so popular, you may be able to earn a certification through a relatively new company called e-certification.
Are Microsoft certifications worth it?
Most professionals have heard the name “Microsoft Certified,” but what does it mean? Is it worth the price of admission? The truth is, Microsoft certifications are not a requirement for entry into the field, but they reassure employers that the candidate will perform the job.
Some employers require Microsoft certifications to qualify for certain positions. For example, some large companies require their analysts to hold an MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) certification. It is also required for U.S. military service members to qualify for a job as a cybersecurity analyst. Microsoft certifications are also useful for small businesses to prove their expertise and technical prowess.
Microsoft certifications are a great way to get recognized for your technical skills and knowledge. However, if you have been working in the IT world for several years, you may have accumulated a pretty solid set of certifications.
You’ve got a salary bump if you can pass a Microsoft Certification exam. But is it worth the hassle? If you can’t pass a certification exam, you can still work in the IT industry, but your salary will only go as far as your actual skills.
If you are like most professionals, you have a dream career and believe it is attainable. However, getting that credential is not always easy, and many times the struggle to get it can take years of effort. Does it make sense to spend years of your life learning to code when you can just take an online course and get the same result without all the struggle?
On top of the fact that Microsoft certifications like MCSA, MCSE, and MCP are notoriously hard to pass, there is a new generation of Microsoft certifications that are difficult to pass as well. These include MCTS and MCSD. MCTS is an exam for the MCSE, and MCSD is an exam for the MCSE. Aren’t these certifications worth their weight in gold? Microsoft certifications may not be worth the struggle.
Windows 10 has changed the way we use the computer, with things like touch-friendly desktop apps, smarter Cortana, and the introduction of a new way to work on your computer called Microsoft Edge. As a result, the demand for Microsoft certifications has grown dramatically. But what’s the value of a Microsoft certification to your career, and is it worth the money to pursue them?
Microsoft certifications in software development have been around for a long time. With the advent of cloud computing, it is not surprising that companies such as Microsoft have seen a rise in the number of people obtaining them. Whether you are an entry-level IT professional or a seasoned expert, a Microsoft certification can be a valuable asset to any resume.