Microsoft Windows XP
(MCP, MCSA, MCSE)

The Microsoft Windows program will teach you how to do the job as a network administrator, network engineer, end-user support specialist, or help desk technician. In addition, the training will help to prepare you for industry certifications such as:

• MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional)
• MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator)
• MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer)

Students in the Microsoft program will be assigned two hard drives for use in the Hands-on Training Lab and in class. You will begin your training by installing Windows XP Professional. Later you'll install Windows  Server 2003 on another drive. Unlike some training programs you will not be limited to simulations but rather benefit from hands-on training.

Classes meet once per week or twice per week for a total of three to five hours weekly for a full semester. In addition, you will need to spend a few additional hours weekly in the Hands-On Training lab. The Hands-On Training lab is open a variety of times during the week.

The preferred order of taking classes is:

• CPC 125: Windows XP Professional
• CPC 202: Windows Server
• CPC 225: Exchange Server

Students enroll on a class-by-class basis and are not required to take all classes. Classes may be canceled if there is insufficient enrollment. Open enrollment for the MCSA program occurs at the beginning of each semester (Fall and Spring) on a first-come, first-serve basis.

These classes are interesting and challenging. In addition to class time and several additional hours in the Hands-On Training lab, you should plan to spend several hours outside of class studying on a weekly basis.

In addition, assessment exams over the material taught in the class may be given via computerized testing similar to certification exams. Students are required to take a skills-based final that may last several hours. These exams will cover the skills that Microsoft recommends you should have before attempting a certification exam.

Some students successfully pass certification exams without on-the-job experience. However, Microsoft recommends at least one year of on-the-job experience before attempting certification exams.

Prerequisites

There are specific prerequisite skills necessary to begin the Microsoft program. Prerequisite classes are required. However, if a student already has the required prerequisite knowledge and would like the prerequisite classes waived, the student may talk with a faculty advisor to determine their current level of knowledge. We also accept transfer credits and consider industry certifications in lieu of prerequisite classes. See details under How To Register.

The following table shows class numbers, class titles, and current Microsoft certification exams that each class targets. Our training is targeted towards teaching you how to do the job. In addition, classes will help to prepare you for Microsoft certification exams.