Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA) Information and Training

Microsoft Certifications - General Information

Microsoft has recently revamped their certificates programs to be more targeted and much more specific. Their Certifications Overview provides a mapping of how the different certifications fit together.

For the Microsoft Certified Architect training, there are 2 different areas of concentration.

MCA - Technology-Based Architecture

The technology based architecture specialization is for architects who are using Microsoft technology to provide expert solutions in messaging (Microsoft Exchange Server) and database (Microsoft SQL Server focusing on OLTP (online transaction processing) areas.

To become a Microsoft Certified Technology Architect you must successfully participate in an intensive, four-week training program, successfully complete weekly written and lab-based exams, and pass a rigorous panel interview conducted by Microsoft experts and MCAs. The Microsoft Certified Architectpage details the program requirements in depth.

MCA - Broad Architecture Skills

For those industry experts who possess broad architecture skills that use a variety of Microsoft and non-Microsoft technologies to deliver customer solutions, Microsoft offers certifications recognizing infrastructure and solutions excellence. This certification also requires a rigorous Review Board interview conducted by a panel of Microsoft experts and MCAs. More details are available about the Infrastructure MCA certification and the Solutions based MCA certification.

MCA Training and Testing Details

The MCA certification is definitely an elite program. You must first qualify to register for training. Once registered, the program fees are quite steep (approximately $30,000 as of this writing) and the program is available in Redmond, WA only at this time. On average, the MCA training participants have 13 years of industry experience. You must then qualify to participate in the hands-on labs, and then pass the testing. Finally, qualified candidates for MCA certification have to pass a very strenuous review board (only 20% pass the review board on their first attempt!)

Benefits of MCA Certification

Obtaining the elite MCA certification sets you apart from your peers as an expert that can deliver high quality Microsoft based solutions to clients with complex business and technical requirements. According to Microsoft, some consulting partners see an increase of 33% in the hourly bill rate associated with the MCA certification.

Posted in: Microsoft