Microsoft is a leader in the computing, technology and electronics industries as of the date of publication. Any individual pursuing a career in a related field should display proficiency in working with the Windows operating system and other components it integrates with, including the World Wide Web and the PC's internal hardware. The MTA program provides educators with a structured curriculum of foundational concepts based on ongoing updates to Microsoft products and relevant trends in the information technology industry. Students can gain certifications while exploring career options or follow a recommended path of study to become a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist.
Microsoft offers certification in Windows OS fundamentals, Web development fundamentals, security fundamentals, software development fundamentals and Windows Server admin fundamentals, among other topics. The educational institution is responsible for purchasing an MTA Campus License, which grants access to Microsoft's Web-based instructional tools and exam kits through the Certiport testing provider. A license authorizes the institution to proctor up to 1,000 exams annually, but a single exam purchase can also be arranged. To administer exams directly to students, an institution must register with Certiport and satisfy all requirements for fair and accurate testing. Certiport testing centers maintain the right to establish a proctoring fee, but many institutions waive the cost for students enrolled at the school.
The convenience of proctoring and taking MTA certification exams reflects the technological advancement the program promotes. Registered students have access to online test prep games, review kits and preparation guides detailing the topics included on each certification exam. The exams last for 50 minutes and consist of approximately 30 to 50 questions. The exam's electronic format allows students and proctors to receive the test scores immediately after completion. A minimum score of 70 is required to pass the examinations, and successful applicants can download the certificate directly from the Microsoft Certified Professionals site. As of the date of publication, MTA exams are available only in English. However, Microsoft has announced plans to develop exams in Chinese, Russian, Spanish, Japanese and several other languages. Non-native English speakers who feel comfortable taking the test in English can arrange for an additional 30 minutes to complete the exam.
Microsoft aims to bridge the gap between novices and more advanced entry-level training courses that require mastery of the fundamentals, such as the Oracle Certified Associate program. The MTA program defines and validates the exact skills required to obtain higher-level Microsoft certifications. These certifications also offer employers a method of evaluating an applicant's comprehension of technological concepts. Microsoft certification paths prepare students for careers in network and database administration, Web development, software engineering and other lucrative fields. In its MTA promotion materials, Microsoft projected an average salary of approximately $51,000 for a Microsoft-certified, entry-level web developer, and $64,000 for a level 1 network administrator.