I have a bachelor degree in computers and over 6 years of experience in IT (jack of all trades). I’ve done web development (HTML, ASP, Perl, Javascript), windows apps (VB), PC hardware/software, networking, databases, SQL, routers, help desk work, a little bit of Red Hat, intranet programming, etc. While I have good knowledge of many of those subjects, I wouldn’t consider myself an expert in one subject. I currently work at a small company as the “IT guy” and pretty much do everything listed above. I’m making a decent but not high salary, not even close to the $50 K per year people used to get coming out of college. I’d like to get more involved in databases and strengthen my computer networking skills, as I don’t think programming is for me in the long term. I’m seriously considering spending the next year getting some certifications. Here are the options I’m considering:
1) A+, Net+, MCDBA, MSCA
OR
2) MCDBA, MCSE
OR
3) Study the material but forget about the tests (saving $$$$), and use the extra time to start a side business to generate extra revenue.
The first option seems to relate to my background more than the second option. It seems that the latter tests in the MCSE track would be a waste of time because I haven’t done networking at that level….and I’d probably get better use of the info from the A+/Net+ books to deal with every day problems. The market seems to be oversaturated with MCSE’s as it is.
That said, I’m not really sure that taking the actual A+ and Net+ tests are worth the money. I thought about just reading the material without actually taking the tests, skipping the stuff I already know and the useless info, saving hundreds of dollars. I can’t see anyone ever calling and asking how how many lines are on the Pentium II’s bus. If the A+ and Net+ opens doors, it might be worth it, but it seems like the actual certification will help those looking for entry level jobs. The same could be said for the other certs.
If I go for the certs….I’m not sure whether to go after the certs in subjects that I’ve worked with or go after an MCSE, even though I’ll probably forget half the stuff since I don’t do that kind of work every day. Any feedback would be appreciated.
