how long to complete mcse

neo468

hey guys,

I am working full time 8 to 5 5 days a week, and want to complete the mcse by the end of 2006. Is this goal possible? what is a realistic amount of time to complete mcse while working full time?

Ricka182

I think it depends on your experience level. If you are familiar with the software already, it should come easier. For a complete noob, I think a year would be a bit tight, but I tend to overstudy. The first couple exams aren't too difficult, but then there's the beast, 216, which from what I've seen, seems to be failed more often.

Webmaster

I agree with Ricka the amount of experience you have already makes a lot of difference. If you are working full time with the products, i.e. Windows Server, 6 to 12 months is realistic and you should be able to reach your goal before the end of 2006. Again, it depends a lot on your current level of experience, but also on the amount of time you put into studying each day.

Trailerisf

I have a 7month old son and am studying for my mcse while working 50+ hrs a week... I started out doing an exam every two months, now pushed back to every 3. I prefer to get high marks rather than coast by.

Content is very mundane and not easy to cram into your brain all at once. I would shoot for 18 months unless you dont have a job. Then, you should do it well within a year.

neo468

how much does the mcse 2003 cost? What kind of equipment do I need to really practice what I learn

Ricka182

Each exam costs around $125 each, plus you need at least two boxes, more is better. This stuff is not cheap.

AnthonyJD81

One computer running VWMare or Virtual Machine is ideal also. Of course, you will need quite a bit of memory for this. 1GB of memory is still cheaper than buying a whole new machine.

Of course, you'll need the proper resources to pass the exam (ie. books and internet)

I would say with minimal windows experience, allow yourself 1-3 months of preparation for each exam. Som exams are a lot easier than others. Some are just a plan 'ol pain in the arse...LOL

Go for the MCSA first as it is a more easily obtainable title. First take the A+ and Network+ (or Security+ instead of both) exams and need only 3 MS exams to have your MCSA. After than, 3 more exams and your MCSE.

Smaller goals and steps are easier to manage and obtain and

techboyjk

plus you can take A+ and Network+ together and use them as a credit towards your mcsa...

IT_Admin

I am going to try to have my mcse by the end of the year. I have been at it since last may. I started my mcse just before microsoft decided to change the exam format. I held off on writing any exams when i heard that. wanted to wait for awhile just in case there were any glitchs/bugs with new format. My first exam since the new format change was at the end of last year. I would have to say 2 months between exams is good, i prefer 3 months I find is ideal, you can really hammer it home then.

kevozz

What did you mean Microsoft changed the exam format? 2000 and 2003? More sims or something?

IT_Admin

when the simulations were added last june

AnthonyJD81

Yes they added simulation questions but they are pretty darn simple if you know the concepts and have some practice with the interfacing