Top Tech Jobs for MCP Certified Professionals

Completing a technical training course means more knowledge and confidence in your chosen field. Even better, there are real financial opportunities for workers with Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification.
A recent study by Redmond magazine reported the base salary for individuals with different kinds of MCP certification:

• MCSA, Windows 2003: $71,250
• MCSE, Windows 2003: $67,057
• MCSD, VS .NET: $74,063
• MCP, Other: $66,765

IT Job Seekers Benefit from MCP Training

MCP certification allows for specialization in fields like database administration, Web development, and systems engineering. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that a number of high-tech jobs are expected to grow faster than average through 2014. Check out these top tech jobs, and the training that applies to each:

Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts

Analysts design, test, and evaluate systems on LANs and WANs and across other data communications systems. Work could involve a small office network or a global communications system.

• Anticipated job increase through 2014: 55%
• Suggested technical certification: MCSE, MCSA

Computer Software Engineers, Applications

Applications software engineers use different programming languages to design, construct, and maintain applications software. Experienced computer engineers may take on software development duties.

• Anticipated job increase through 2014: 43%
• Suggested technical certification: MCSD, MCAD

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Administrators often work in large offices and maintain a number of computer systems and networks, including LANs, WANs, intranet, and network segments.

• Anticipated job increase through 2014: 38%
• Suggested technical certification: MCSA, MCDBA

While no certification or degree program can guarantee a particular salary or career, technical training and MCP certification can be an ideal step, whether you're just getting into the industry or are ready to move up.
Sources:
MCP Magazine, "2006 Salary Survey: Time for a Raise!"
Microsoft, "What It Means to Be an MCP"
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, "Fastest-Growing Occupations"

Amelia Gray is a teacher and freelance writer in San Marcos, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.