FAQ

1. What is the MCSE?

MCSE is the acronym for Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. It is a highly respected certification in networking and is very much in demand. The MCSE consists of seven exams. Passing all seven exams and becoming an MCSE tells possible employers that you are an expert in Microsoft networking. You will need to complete the following:

Four core networking exams
One core client operating system exam
One design exam
One elective exam

2. What are the benefits of the MCSE?

In addition to putting you on track to earning a highly lucrative salary in a profession that is greatly in demand, there are many other benefits that you should know about:

3. Where Do I Take the Tests?

Your instructor will give you all the information that you need to make an appointment toward the end of each course. Microsoft has selected Sylvan Prometric to give the MCSE tests, and their fee is $125 per test. It is extremely important to Microsoft that their tests retain their credibility, and using a third-party test center is one way of ensuring this.

4. What are the Test Formats?

The MCSE exams measure your performance in job-related tasks - simply memorizing facts isn't enough. The MCSE exams have two main purposes: (1) to measure your knowledge, and (2) to determine your competence in using your knowledge to complete specific job related tasks. The tets are computer-based exams, and you will meet multiple-choice questions, and adaptive questions.

5. How much are exams?

Most exams are about $125. You can obtain discounted vouchers at some training centers, and if you take a beta version of an exam, the exam will typically cost less. For more information about exam costs, contact a Sylvan Prometric (http://www.prometric.com) testing center. If you're currently employed, you might try to convince your company to foot some or all of the bill of training and certification.

6. When are the classes offered at HCC for the current term?

You can check the current schedule for a complete list of Microsoft classes being offered at HCC Dale Mabry Campus.

7. How much does it cost for these Microsoft classes ?

Microsoft classes are treated just like regular HCC classes and the cost of the course can be calculated by taking the current tuition rate and multipling it by the course credit hours. Most of the Microsoft classes are 3 credit hours each. Lab fees are $30 per class. There is a one time application fee of $20 when you first enroll at HCC.

8. What do Non-Florida Residents pay ?

Non-Florida Residents pay the current out-of-state tuition rate per credit hour and multiply that by the course credit hours. Most of the Microsoft classes are 3 credit hours each. Lab fees are $30 per class. There is a one time application fee of $20 when you first enroll at HCC.

9. When will HCC move to the Windows 2003 track ?

We started teaching the Windows 2003 track classes Fall 2004.

10. Do I have to take the prerequisites CGS 1000 Intro to Computers & Technologies and CGS 1550 Intro to Networking before taking Microsoft MCSE classes ?

To be a Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) you should have a very good background in both computers and networking. The Microsoft classes are advanced concept classes and are not designed for computer novices. If you do not have a good background in computers and networking it is suggested that you follow HCC's Networking Degree taking the prerequisites and other computer classes listed as needed to get this understanding and background.

11. Where can I call for more information on the Microsoft MCSE classes at HCC ?

You can call the Dale Mabry Computer Science Department at (813) 253-7330 or 7329.