MCSD - Microsoft Certified Solution Developer

MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solution Developer) certification is a credential for business solution program developers and designers. MCSD's perform their application development skills using Microsoft development architecture, technologies, platforms and tools.

MCSD's can develop the following application types:

• Desktop
• Multi-user
• Web-Based
• N-Tier
• Transaction-Based

How is the MCSD Certification Beneficial?

Computer programming is one of the fastest growing occupations in Florida, the United States and around the world. The Bureau of Labor Statistics ranks it in the Top Five list of fastest growing positions. A recent survey by the Information Technology Association of America estimates 10 percent of the Information Technology (IT) jobs nationwide are unfilled.

Companies, organizations and individuals are increasingly dependent on computers and the Internet for business and personal activities. Most companies rely on the World Wide Web to remain competitive. They also need computer programs to automate some of their business processes.

Therefore, programmers and application designers are in high demand. The ability to develop applications and business solutions is especially needed.

As the world leader in software solutions, the ability to perform programming and application development tasks is essential and in demand internationally. The MCSD certification is known worldwide. By earning the MCSD, you demonstrate that you have the ability to lead organizations in successfully designing, implementing and administering business solutions with Microsoft products.

How do I earn the MSCD Certification?

To earn MCSD certification, you must pass the MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) exams. These exams test your ability to build desktop, Web based, distributed and commerce solutions using Microsoft products and technologies.

You must pass four MCP exams to earn the MCSD certification:

• Three core exams - the core tests are designed to measure your competency in solution architecture, desktop applications development and distributed applications development
• One elective exam - the elective exam measures your level of expertise with Microsoft development tools

Please refer to www.microsoft.com for more information about the MCSD exams.

The MCSD exams can be taken at SCC's Professional Testing and Certification Center.

How does SCC help me earn the MCSD Certification?

Many of the Computer Programming and Analysis courses can help you prepare for MCSD certification. Speak with a counselor or a program manager for more information. You can also find information on the exams and the information to study for those exams at www.microsoft.com.

What career opportunities can I explore with MCSD Certification?

With MCSD Certification, you are prepared for career opportunities such as:

• Software Engineering
• Software Application Engineering
• Software Development
• Systems Analysis
• Technical Consulting

For more information on career opportunities with this certification, or for help with job placement, please visit SCC's Career Development Center.