What is Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) Certification?

The job market for high-tech professionals is still hot, but highly competitive. The best jobs are there for the taking, but only for those who have invested time in their skills. Certification is one of the best ways to learn and demonstrate your skills to employers.

The Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) is a top-level certification for advanced developers who design and build enterprise-wide solutions. Microsoft recently announced their latest MCSD certification Ð this one focusing on the .NET framework. IT professionals who already have an MCSD certification do not have to retest for the new .NET framework, but may want to consider testing as a way to demonstrate their skills.

Candidates for the MCSD certification typically have two years of experience developing and maintaining solutions and applications. Testing for the certification involves four core exams and one elective exam.

The core exams include:

Web Application Core Exams (one exam required)

Windows Application Development Core Exams (one exam required)

XML Web Services and Server Components Development Core Exams (one exam required)

Solution Architecture Core Exam (one exam required)

Elective exams include the following:

Elective Exams (one exam required)

Once certified your role may include analyzing business and technical requirements of IT solutions, then defining solution architecture. Those with MCSD certifications typically have titles of software engineer, application analyst, software application developer and technical consultant.

As a MCSD-certified professional, you will have wide industry recognition of your skills and knowledge. Access to exclusive discounts on products and services from Microsoft is also available to MCSDs. In addition to these benefits, MCSDs also earn the Microsoft Certified Applications Developer title during the course of their MCSD testing. It’s two certification titles in one.

Computerworld magazine estimates that there is a small pool of MCSDs and ranks it a top standout feature on a resume. It's not a substitute for real-world experience, but certification can mean the difference between you and another candidate, or even difference in pay. Keep your skills at the top of employers’ lists and earn an MCSD certification on the latest Microsoft technology.

Get the certification you need to advance your career! Check our list of schools and colleges offering computer certification programs.