Question on Certification 1

[melbert2002]

I am looking to get certified in MS SQL 2000. I am kinda lost on the whole procpect of this certification kind of thing. I see stuff like MS DBA or MSCE and a bunch of test numbers, this is really confusing for me.

To start out with is their a test for MS SQL 2000, something that I can tell my boss that I am now certified in MS SQL 2000. I am also wondering, I am a Junior Systems Admin officially, but my job requires a lot of MS SQL. I really dont know what certification route I should take, whether I should go into DBA or just MSCE/Network admin route? I have a degree in CIS, and I like DB, but it really seems like alot right now. Where as MSCE is more neutral and can go just about anywhere.

Sorry for the confusion
Thanks

 

[Wishdiak]

melbert2002,

Accoring to Microsoft's site, there is a MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) in MS-SQL 2000 certification

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/exams/70-229.asp

and MCDBA in MS-SQL 2000 certification

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/mcdba/requirements.asp

Whether you want to persue MCSE or one of the above is entirely up to you.

Wishdiak

http://www.wishdiak.com

 

[mrmoneymatters]

If you are wanting to get some certs and you like db, check into the MCDBA.

 

[mrdenny]

I wouldn't recommend getting a cert until you know which direction you want to go. If you want to focus more on being a DBA, then you will want to go for the MCDBA. If you want to be a sysadmin then the MCSE will be the way for you to go. Now if you want to be an MCSE with some database knoweldge then you can use the SQL Server test 70-228 as your MCSE elective.

The test the Wishdiak pointed you to (70-229) is the MCDBA programming test. It covers sql syntax and procedure programming. The 70-228 should be done first as it is the precursor to most of the 229 exam. The 228 exam covers basic setup and maintenance of SQL 2000 which the 229 moves into more detail of the programming. Either one will get you your MCP. Both are required for the MSDBA, and either can be used as your elective for your MCSE.

Denny

--Anything is possible. All it takes is a little research. (Me)

 

[melbert2002]

Thanks for the info. It all seems a little bit clearer now. Well I am definatly going to start with getting Certified in MS SQL because of my job.

I guess I am wondering for future job prospects is it worth it to get certified as a DBA in MS SQL or should I go for ORACLE. I see a lot of jobs out there looking for ORACLE and My SQL, but not as many for MS SQL. Or is MS SQL mainly a product used in the US, where Oracle is used more world wide? This is why I am wondering if I should go for a more neutral Certification like MSCE.

So many questions......

Thanks

Mel

 

[mrdenny]

There are lots of companies using MS SQL, not just in the US. I'm not going to get into my rant of Oracle and MySQL, I'm just not in the mood for that much typing.

When it comes to selecting a database platform to get certified on, you really need to look at the job market in the area that you are in. If all the companies are using Oracle, then learn Oracle. If they are using Sybase, learn Sybase. Many companies to not have a single database platform. A couple of companies ago that I worked for had MS SQL, Oracle, Informix, and MySQL.

The best way to ensure that you can get the job that you are looking for is to ensure that your skills will fit in with as many companies as possible.

Denny

--Anything is possible. All it takes is a little research. (Me)