Computer Certifications: MCSE/MCSA

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) Program?
Harford Community College offers MCSE training courses to prepare students for successful completion of the seven exams required for certification, as well as to allow participants to confidently perform in a business environment. MCSEs are qualified to effectively plan, implement, maintain and support information systems in a wide range of computing environments using the Microsoft Windows 2003 server.

Why should I get certified?
Earning MCSE certification acknowledges your expertise in working with Microsoft products and technologies. It helps students get a foot in the door with either a prospective employer or client. It lets others know your achievement level, and many employers may use certification as either a condition for employment or reward certifications earned with job advancement or promotions. As an MCSE, you’ll also receive:

• Access to technical and product information directly from Microsoft

• Access to exclusive discounts on products and services from selected companies

• Logos and certificate to enable you to identify your MCSE status to colleagues or clients

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

• Access to new secured content on the Microsoft Certified Professional magazine Online website

What kind of jobs can I qualify for and what salary can I expect?
Upon obtaining your certification, you can qualify for a number of positions depending upon your background:

• Network Engineer $55,000

• Project Lead/Networking $61,000

• Management $71,000

See www.mcpmag.com or www.salary.com for more information

Where do I get a job? Will you provide assistance?
Harford Community College offers counseling and assistance in your job search. Advisors are available to help current students and graduates with resume development and interview skills. Visit the Academic Advising and Transfer Services website or contact them at 443-412-2301.

How long is the MCSE program? What will I learn?
The MCSE program consists of seven intensive training courses that include lectures and hands-on exercises to prepare students for the exams required for certification. There are four required courses and three electives, taught by MCSE-certified instructors. The duration of the training program can vary depending on both student and course availability, although it can be completed in 6 months. All courses must be completed in the series.

Windows 2003 Track

Required

Core

Design
Exam 70-298: Designing Security for a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network

Client Operating Systems
Exam 70–270: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional

Electives
Exam 70-284: Implementing and Managing Microsoft Exchange Server 2003

MCSE Exam Requirements and Certificate
The MCSE exams are written by Microsoft, and testing is administered at Prometric Thomson Test Centers. Certification is awarded for successful completion of the examination, and not for completion of preparation courses. There are no further MCSE education requirements or exams for a given technology once the student has become certified. You may wish to become MCSE certified in new technologies as they develop. For more information on scheduling exams, visit www.2test.com.

What are the Prerequisites for MCSE?
Students should have networking experience and familiarity with networking concepts, as well as a strong background in Windows 2003 or XP and familiarity with PCs. A+ Certification is recommended by Microsoft as a foundation for MCSE training if the student lacks prerequisites. Students interested in enrolling in this program should attend Computer Counseling Night held at the beginning of both the Fall and Spring semesters. Counseling Night is FREE to the public and instructors will be available to answer questions. See Calendar of Events for details.

I’m still not sure the computer field is for me. What should I do?
Attend Computer Counseling Night held at the beginning of both the Fall and Spring Semesters on the Harford Community College Campus. It’s free to the public. Computer training instructors will be there to speak with you and help select the programs appropriate for you. Other counseling sessions are scheduled throughout the year. See Calendar of Events for further information.

Tuition Assistance
For tuition assistance or loan deferment information, please contact Finance and Accounting at 443-412-2207.

For additional information, contact Pam Karwowski at 443-360-9108 or email pkarwowski@harford.edu.