Microsoft streamlines MCSE and MCSD certifications, eliminates requirement to retake exams

Recently, Microsoft decided to change its certification requirements, effectively eliminating the need to retake certain exams for some Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and Developer (MCSD) certifications. Microsoft Learning GM Alsion Cunard is looking to make earning more certifications easier for MCSE and MCSD certified professionals. Cunard also wants to make sure the certifications are more in tune with the Centers of Excellence guidelines that are used by the Microsoft Partner Network.

In addition, Microsoft announced five new MCSE and MCSD certifications are now available:

• MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure – focusing on skills validation for Windows Server and Microsoft Azure
• MCSE: Mobility – focusing on skills validation for Windows Client and Enterprise Mobility Suite
• MCSE: Data Management and Analysis – focusing on skills validation for both on-premises and cloud-based Microsoft data products and services
• MCSE: Productivity – focusing on skills validation for Office 365, SharePoint, Exchange, and Skype for Business
• MCSD: App Builder – focusing on skills validation for Web and Mobile app development

In order to be eligible to receive any of these certifications, you must first earn a prerequisite Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification as well as pass an additional exam as required by the corresponding Center of Excellence.

“The resulting MCSE or MCSD certification will be added to your transcript and will never expire. Instead, the achievement date will signify your investment in continuing education on the technology. Every year, you will have the opportunity to re-earn the certification by passing an additional exam from the list of electives, demonstrating your investment in broadening or deepening your skills in a given Center of Excellence. Each time you earn the certification, a new certification entry will be added to your transcript.”

The certification changes apply only to MCSE and MCSD certifications; these changes do not affect MCSA certifications. More in-depth details of the MCSE and MCSD certification changes are available on the Microsoft Born to Learn Blog.