SQL Server 2012 Certifications Overview

Slowhand

Here's a quick run-down of the new SQL Server 2012 certifications from Microsoft.

MCSA: SQL Server
This cert requires three exams and is considered by Microsoft as a foundation for other SQL Server certifiations. This certification requires no renewal exams and remains current as long as Windows SQL Server 2012 is supported by Microsoft:

70-461 - Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012
70-462 - Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases
70-463 - Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012


After that, we have two different MCSE paths for SQL Server 2012. As with other Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert certifications, these require renewal every three years.

MCSE: Data Platform
This is a cert targeted at database developers, designing database solutions.

MCSA: SQL Server 2012 (Prerequisite)
70-464 - Developing Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Databases
70-465 - Designing Database Solutions for Microsoft SQL Server 2012


MCSE: Business Intelligence
This is a cert for database administrators, managing and maintaining SQL Server in the enterprise.

MCSA: SQL Server 2012 (Prerequisite)
70-466 - Implementing Data Models and Reports with Microsoft SQL Server 2012
70-467 - Designing Business Intelligence Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server 2012

RobertKaucher

Here are some links regarding the upgrade paths. Apparently you only need the MCTS exams (432 and 44 to take the upgrade exams for MCSA: SQL Server 2012.

Upgrade Path from MCITP: DatabaseAdministrator/MCSA on SQL Server 2008

Exam 70-457: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 1
Exam 70-458: Transition Your MCTS on SQL Server 2008 to MCSA: SQL Server 2012, Part 2

knownhero

Thanks for this. Booked the 461 for end of Feb.