Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator

MCSA Certification

Course Details

If you already have some experience administering client and network operating systems, this course is ideal. Equally, it offers a progression pathway from CompTIA and MCDST (Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician) certifications. Gaining this MCSA certification shows you know how to manage and troubleshoot system environments successfully. It can help inspire confidence in potential employers and advance your career.

The course curriculum covers a wide range of Windows Server 2003 skills, including managing and maintaining the Environment, implementing and maintaining a Network and implementing and administering Security.

Qualifications

The Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) course will qualify you to become an IT Systems Administrator in Windows Server 2003. It’s an industry recognised qualification that proves you have the skills employers are searching for to manage their Windows operating system.

To earn MCSA certification, you must pass all the three core exams and the elective exam as shown below:

 

• Exam 70–290: Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment (Core networking systems exam)
• Exam 70–291: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure (Core networking systems exam)
• Exam 70–270: Installing, Configuring, and Administering Microsoft Windows XP Professional (Core Operating Systems exam)
• Exam 70-299: Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network (Elective exam)

Study Plan

Your MCSA course material is divided into four modules. These cover a wide variety of topics and subjects including:

 

• An introduction to Windows Server 2003
• Windows Server 2003 security features
• Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
• Troubleshooting Windows Server 2003 networks
• Network configuration
• Windows XP Service Pack
• Managing and troubleshooting software updates
• Planning and deploying Internet Protocol Security (IPSec)
• Troubleshooting access problems

Study Details

During your course you will be given assignments to complete.  The assignments are designed to let you demonstrate what you have learnt so far.  You are provided with your own personal tutor for the duration of your studies.  Your personal tutor will use the assignments to assess your progress and provide you with feedback.

You will need to attend a local test centre to sit your 4 online examinations.

You should be able to complete the entire course within approximately 160 hours of study.

Careers

At the end of your Home Learning Course, and with the qualification you want under your belt, the door to a new career is close at hand.

With this course you will be able to apply for jobs as an IT Systems Administrator, with a salary of up to £38,760* per annum.

*Source: IT Jobs Watch – 2009