MCSE, is it worth taking, how much is it and where do i go to do the course?

Question

Ive done my BTEC diploma in ICT networking, now i need the next stage (as i found it very hard to find work in the field of networking)

Im 19 and in the UK will the MCSE help me get a job in networking?

Answer 1

Yes, however a more specialist networking qualification (Cisco - CCNA or Novell CNA etc) ... or ANY practical experience (eg holiday job assisting Network Admins, especially any international Company or Bank) would be MUCH better ...

To achieve a full MCSE you need to pass 6 exams and this usually implies at least 6 training courses ..

There are many places offering training courses, HOWEVER because a lot of IT Companies pay for their employees training, the costs are 'commercial' (typically £800 - £1,500 PER COURSE .. and each course is typically only ONE WEEK) ... and the Exam fees themselves are also quite expensive (I believe the Microsoft Exam fee is about £125 .. per exam - you need to pass 6 - if you fail, you can retake, however (usually) that means paying the exam fee again).

You could look for a College Course leading to exams .. but best would be to go work for a Company that will 'sponsor' you (this means they pay for your training & exams etc but if you quit the Company within a short time of passing, usually 3 years, you have to pay back some of the training costs)

Answer 2

Do basic certifications such as A+, network+, they open the doors to entry level. MCSE is very expensive and has watered down *significantly* over the past decade with respect to its importance. Only do MCSE if you're already employeed and your employer is going to pay for it.