For those hoping to start an MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) study program, be aware that companies offer quite diverse courses; some work and some don't. You will be able to choose from a variety of courses, both if you're new to network support, or have a certain amount of knowledge but are looking to gain accredited qualifications. To become certified for an MCSA it's necessary to achieve pass marks in four MCP's (Microsoft Certified Professional exams). If you're joining the industry for the first time, it's possible you will be required to pick up some skills before doing the MCP exams. Look for a company that has industry experts who can guide you towards the best way forward for you and will take care to start you at the right entry level.
With all the options available, does it really shock us that most potential trainees get stuck choosing the job they will enjoy. As having no commercial skills in IT, how can most of us understand what a particular job actually consists of? Ultimately, any kind of right choice really only appears via a careful examination of several shifting areas:
* Personality factors and interests - what kind of working tasks please or frustrate you.
* Why you're looking at starting in Information Technology - maybe you'd like to overcome a long-held goal like firing your boss and working for yourself for instance.
* Your earning needs you have?
* Often, trainees don't consider the level of commitment required to gain all the necessary accreditation.
* It makes sense to understand the differences across each individual training area.
In all honesty, it's obvious that the only real way to investigate these matters is through a chat with someone who has experience of computing (and chiefly it's commercial needs and requirements.)
Exam 'guarantees' are sometimes offered as part of a training package - they always involve paying for the exam fees up-front, at the very beginning of your studies. Before you jump at guaranteed exams, look at the following:
They've allowed costings for it one way or another. You can be assured it's not a freebie - it's just been rolled into the price of the whole package. Those who take exams one at a time, paying for them just before taking them are in a much stronger position to qualify at the first attempt. They're conscious of their investment and so are more inclined to make sure they're ready.
Isn't it in your interests to find the best exam deal or offer when you're ready, not to pay any mark-up to a college, and to do it in a local testing office - instead of the remote centre that's convenient only to the trainer? Considerable numbers of unscrupulous training providers make big margins through getting in the money for exams at the start of the course then hoping either that you won't take them, or it will be a long time before you do. Also, exam guarantees often have very little value. The majority of companies will not pay for you to re-take until you can prove to them you're ready to pass.
Due to typical VUE and Prometric examinations in the United Kingdom costing around 112 pounds, the most cost-effective way to cover the cost is by paying when you need them. Why splash out often many hundreds of pounds extra at the beginning of your training? Consistent and systematic learning, coupled with quality exam simulation software is what will really see you through.
Many training providers will only offer support available from 9-6 (office hours) and sometimes later on specific days; not many go late into the evening (after 8-9pm) or cover weekends properly. You'll be waiting ages for an answer with email based support, and phone support is usually just a call-centre which will make some notes and then email an advisor - who'll call back sometime over the next 1-3 days, when it suits them. This is no use if you're stuck with a particular problem and only have certain times available in which to do your studies.
Keep looking and you'll come across professional companies who recommend and use online support at all times - even in the middle of the night. If you opt for less than direct-access round-the-clock support, you'll end up kicking yourself. It may be that you don't use it throughout the night, but you're bound to use weekends, early mornings or late evenings.
Ensure all your exams are what employers want - don't bother with programmes which end up with a useless in-house certificate or plaque. Only nationally recognised accreditation from the major players like Microsoft, CompTIA, Adobe and Cisco will open the doors to employers.
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