What is a MCSE?

The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) credential is one of the most widely recognised technical certifications in the industry.  It is the premier certification for professionals who analyze the business requirements and design and implement the infrastructure for business solutions based on the Windows 2000 platform and Microsoft .NET Enterprise Servers.

Of the current 844,000 MCPs worldwide, 160,500 (19%) are MCSE certified, making it the most popular certification.  The MCDBA on SQL Server 2000 is second with just under 10% (83,572).  [Figures from microsoft.com]

By earning the premier MCSE credential, individuals are demonstrating that they have the skills necessary to lead organizations in the successful design, implementation and administration of the most advanced Windows operating system and .NET Enterprise Servers.

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MCSE - Target Audience & Typical Environment

The Windows 2000 track of the MCSE credential is designed for information technology (IT) professionals working in the typically complex computing environment of medium to large organisations.  Implementation responsibilities include installing, configuring and troubleshooting network systems.

The MCSE certification is appropriate for:

• Systems Engineers

• Technical Support Engineers
• Systems Analysts
• Network Analysts
• Technical Consultants.

MCSE candidates should have at least one year of experience implementing and administering a network operating system.  In addition, candidates should have at least one year of experience in implementing and administering a desktop operating system and designing a network infrastructure.

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The Value of MCSE Certification to Employers and Engineers

MCSEs are among the most technically proficient professionals available to help your organization make a successful transition to the Windows 2000 operating system and to ensure that you reap the ongoing benefits that Windows 2000 and Active Directory are designed to deliver.

Active Directory holds the power to simplify IT management, strengthen security, and extend the interoperability of your current systems and software. No one is better prepared to do capitalize on this than a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) who is certified in Microsoft Windows 2000.

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers receive the following benefits:

• A 50 percent rebate or discount on a one-year subscription to Microsoft TechNet or TechNet Plus—offered for your first year of certification only.

• Exclusive discounts on products and services from selected companies.

• Invitations to Microsoft conferences, technical training sessions, and events.

• Free access to Microsoft Certified Professional Magazine Online.

• A special deal on a subscription to Windows & .NET Magazine.

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Changes to the MCSE Certification Route

Microsoft plans to announce the full requirements for the MCSE on Microsoft Windows Server 2003 in early 2003. In response to customer feedback, the MCP program will offer an upgrade path consisting of one or two exams that will enable current MCSEs on Windows 2000 to update their respective certification to the Windows Server 2003 track in a time and cost-effective manner. Complete details about the upgrade offer will be announced in early 2003. Individuals should continue to pursue training and certification in Windows 2000 because skills acquired for Windows 2000 are highly relevant to and provide a solid foundation for Windows Server. To retain certification, MCSEs on Windows 2000 will not be required to pass Windows Server 2003 exams.

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MCSE Examination Route

MCSE’s are required to pass five core technology exams and two elective exams that provide a valid and reliable measure of technical proficiency and expertise. Exams are developed with the input of professionals in the industry and reflect how Microsoft products are used in organisations throughout the world.

To get more information about how to prepare for each exam, please visit the Microsoft Web Site for a list of links to suggested courses, preparation guides, exam study guides and practice exams.

The MCSE requirements are outlined in the table below.

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F1's MCSE e-Learning SAVES YOU 76%

F1 offer the option of completing the MCSE using e-Learning and self-study – which saves you a massive 76% off classroom based courses.

F1 adds value to standard e-learning courses by supplying the full MOC manual free, as well as giving you access to our trainers by phone or email.  We also enable you to convert to classroom based courses at a rate of £150 per day (plus VAT).

We can also supply you with a pre-configured PC at a cost of £750 (plus VAT).  Call for details.

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F1 Routes to MCSE Certification and Prices

* Course 2071 is not available via e-learning, but the manual is supplied for self-study.

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