Information Technology Certifications that Employers Want

The information technology industry is constantly changing and evolving. While an IT diploma or degree is a powerful foundation for your future career, it’s far from the only relevant item that you’ll want on your resume. As an entry-level professional, it’s crucial that you demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Lacking a long job history in the field, a collection of smart information technology certifications is the best way to highlight your employability.

Check out these IT certifications for a wealth of opportunities that will help you advance your career.

Microsoft Certification

Microsoft offers several information technology certifications that are designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge in mobility, cloud technology, productivity, data, or app building. Within each competency, you’ll find several specialized certifications. For example, within the Data Management and Analytics competency you can pursue the Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) in Database Technology, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) in Data Management and Analytics, or Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) in several SQL programs.

Many Microsoft certifications build on one another, so you can progress up the ladder obtaining entry-level IT certifications first, which then serve as prerequisites for more advanced courses. Microsoft certifications are obtained by passing knowledge-based exams. Prep resources are available to help if you’re not already familiar with the information.

Cisco Certification

If you’re preparing for a job in IT networking, Cisco certifications are a useful way to demonstrate your expertise in this area. Cisco offers several recommended training courses for each certification. You must pass multiple examinations for each Cisco certification. These are valid for a specified period of time, after which you’ll have to get recertified.

Cisco certifications include:

• Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

Cybersecurity Nexus Certificate

Cybersecurity Nexus (CSX) offers a Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate for those seeking entry-level IT certifications that will help them build a strong foundation for a career in cybersecurity. This certificate is designed to provide globally relevant skills that will help you excel in a broad range of cybersecurity roles. You can prepare for the course using the study guide, via an 8-hour online course, as part of a two- or four-day live workshop, or with on-site workplace training.

CompTIA Certifications

CompTIA offers a broad range of performance-based examinations that will allow you to earn valuable certifications by demonstrating your skills and knowledge in targeted areas. Entry level IT certifications available from CompTIA include CompTIA A+ and CompTIA IT Fundamentals. From there, you can proceed to intermediate courses like:

• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Cloud+
• CompTIA Product+
• CompTIA Server +
• CompTIA CTT+
• …and many more

IT certifications are an outstanding way to demonstrate your knowledge as a job seeker, but you’ll want to keep up with these long after you’ve landed a great position. Maintaining the latest information technology certifications in your area will signify that you’re dedicated to your job, and prepared to put in the time and effort to stay at the very top of your industry.

For information on IT programs at Bryant & Stratton College, contact the Admissions office at 1.888.273.2758.