The Microsoft MCSA course (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) is the perfect course for anybody thinking about being a supporter of networks. So if you already have some understanding but want to improve your CV with an acknowledged certification, or you are just getting into the industry, you'll have the ability to find a course to fit your requirements. Each scenario will need a different training track, so ensure the course is right for you before spending your money. Look for an organisation that takes the time to get to know what you're trying to achieve, and will work with you to sort out what you want to do, well before they select your course.

We're often asked why qualifications from colleges and universities are now falling behind more commercial qualifications? Industry now acknowledges that for mastery of skill sets for commercial use, certified accreditation from companies such as Adobe, Microsoft, CISCO and CompTIA often is more effective in the commercial field - and a fraction of the cost and time. Typically, the learning just focuses on what's actually required. It isn't quite as lean as that might sound, but the principle objective is to focus on the exact skills required (alongside some required background) - without attempting to cover a bit about everything else - in the way that academic establishments often do.

Put yourself in the employer's position - and you wanted someone who could provide a specific set of skills. Which is the most straightforward: Go through reams of different degrees and college qualifications from hopeful applicants, asking for course details and which commercial skills they've mastered, or choose a specific set of accreditations that specifically match what you're looking for, and make your short-list from that. You'll then be able to concentrate on getting a feel for the person at interview - rather than on the depth of their technical knowledge.

One useful service that several companies offer is job placement assistance. This is to assist your search for your first position. Sometimes, there is more emphasis than is necessary on this service, as it's really not that difficult for a well trained and motivated person to find a job in the IT industry - because there's a great need for well trained people.

Nevertheless, don't procrastinate and wait until you've completed your exams before bringing your CV up to date. As soon as you start a course, list what you're working on and get promoting! Getting onto the 'maybe' pile of CV's is more than not being regarded at all. A decent number of junior positions are given to students in the early stages of their course. Actually, a specialist locally based employment service (who will get paid commission to place you) will be more pro-active than a centralised training company's service. They should, of course, also be familiar with local industry and the area better.

Essentially, as long as you focus the same level of energy into landing a job as into studying, you won't have any problems. A number of students inexplicably conscientiously work through their training course and do nothing more once certified and seem to suppose that interviewers know they're there.

Exam 'guarantees' are sometimes offered as part of a training package - inevitably that means paying for the exams when you pay for the rest of your course. Before you get carried away with a course with such a promise, why not look at the following:

In this day and age, we're a tad more knowledgeable about sales gimmicks - and generally we cotton on to the fact that we are actually being charged for it (it isn't free or out of the goodness of their hearts!) Those who take each progressive exam, funding them one at a time are far more likely to pass first time. They are thoughtful of their spending and prepare more appropriately to make sure they're ready.

Shouldn't you be looking to find the best exam deal or offer when you take the exam, not to pay any mark-up to the college, and to take it closer to home - rather than possibly hours away from your area? Is there a good reason to pay interest on a bigger loan than is necessary because you've paid early for exams when you don't need to? A great deal of money is secured by training companies charging all their exam fees up-front - and then cashing in when they're not all taken. Pay heed to the fact that, with most 'Exam Guarantees' - they control when and how often you can do your re-takes. You'll have to prove conclusively that you can pass before they'll pay for another exam.

Exams taken at local centres are around 112 pounds in Great Britain. Students should be very wary of forking out hundreds of pounds extra in charges for 'Exam Guarantees' (usually wrapped up in the course package price) - when a quality course, support and commitment, effort and practice with quality exam preparation systems are the factors that really get you through.

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