Microsoft MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE Certifications Set to Retire in January 2021: Complete Guide

The retirement date for MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE exams has been extended to January 31, 2021. This change provides candidates an extra six months to complete their certification goals.

Microsoft has recently announced significant changes to its certification landscape. The company revealed that the widely recognized MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications will officially retire by the end of the second quarter of 2020. However, due to the unprecedented challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, Microsoft has decided to push the deadline to January 31, 2021, giving candidates more time to finalize their certification goals.

This transition is part of Microsoft’s broader shift towards role-based certifications, which focus on building specialized expertise in key areas that align with current industry roles. This strategic change aims to equip professionals with the practical skills needed to meet real-world challenges, making their expertise more applicable to modern job requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown of what this change entails, including affected certifications, key dates, and what candidates can do next to stay on track with their career goals.

Affected Microsoft Certifications: MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE

Microsoft’s certification program has long been recognized as one of the most prestigious credentialing systems in the IT industry. Over the years, the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certifications have helped thousands of IT professionals elevate their careers by proving their expertise in a range of Microsoft technologies. These certifications were considered gold standards in the industry, with many professionals seeking them to showcase their proficiency in administering, developing, and designing Microsoft solutions.

However, with the rise of role-based certifications, Microsoft is gradually retiring these certification tracks in favor of a more modern, specialized approach. The shift from product-based certifications to role-based certifications reflects the growing demand for professionals with specific skills tailored to distinct job functions. This transition, while offering new opportunities for IT professionals, also brings significant changes to the certification landscape.

What Are MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE?

Before diving into what these changes mean, it’s important to understand what the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications represented:

• MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate): The MCSA was a foundational certification designed for individuals who wanted to demonstrate their skills in areas such as Windows Server, SQL Server, Office 365, and other Microsoft technologies. It was a stepping stone to higher-level certifications and a foundational requirement for those aiming to become experts in Microsoft’s server technologies.

• MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer): The MCSD certification focused on developers and those looking to demonstrate their ability to build and deploy applications on Microsoft’s platforms, including Azure, C#, and ASP.NET. The certification helped developers prove their skills in creating modern web and mobile applications.

• MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert): The MCSE was considered an expert-level certification. It covered a broad range of advanced Microsoft technologies, such as cloud infrastructure, data management, and enterprise devices and applications. The MCSE was the pinnacle of Microsoft’s certification offerings for professionals seeking to establish themselves as advanced experts in the IT industry.

Why Is Microsoft Retiring MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE?

The decision to retire these certifications stems from Microsoft’s evolving focus on role-based certifications. Instead of certifying individuals on specific products, the new approach targets the development of skills that align with the specific responsibilities of IT professionals in modern job roles. The role-based certification tracks aim to ensure that professionals are not just proficient in using particular tools but are well-versed in performing job functions that are in high demand across industries.

For example, certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert are focused on specific roles such as cloud administration or solutions architecture. These certifications are designed to meet the growing demand for cloud professionals and ensure that they are equipped with the right expertise to handle the complexities of modern IT infrastructure.

The Impact of Role-Based Certifications

The retirement of the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications reflects a broader trend in the IT industry, where the demand for role-specific expertise has risen dramatically. As businesses continue to adapt to the digital age, the need for specialized skills in areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data analysis, and security has skyrocketed. Role-based certifications are designed to bridge this skills gap by helping professionals build expertise in these emerging fields.

For example, role-based certifications are now available for positions such as:

• Azure Architect

• Azure DevOps Engineer

• Power BI Data Analyst

• Dynamics 365 Developer

These certifications provide a clearer career path for IT professionals, aligning directly with industry needs and job market demands. This shift enables individuals to specialize in certain areas rather than pursuing broad certifications that may cover multiple technologies without specific depth.

The Retirement of Product-Based Certifications

While the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications are being phased out, it is important to note that product-based certifications will still be available. Certifications such as Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) and Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) will continue to support individuals who wish to demonstrate their proficiency in specific Microsoft products. These certifications are particularly valuable for those entering the IT field or individuals who want to focus on a specific product or platform.

The MOS certification, for example, is perfect for individuals who want to prove their expertise in Microsoft Office applications like Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. On the other hand, the MTA is ideal for those starting their journey in IT, providing foundational knowledge of basic concepts in areas like networking, security, and server management.

What Should IT Professionals Do?

For professionals currently holding or pursuing the MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications, it is critical to complete any outstanding exams before the January 31, 2021 deadline. Microsoft strongly encourages individuals to finalize their exams before this date, after which the exams will no longer be available. However, if you are already certified, you can rest assured that your MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE credentials will remain active in your Microsoft transcript for up to two years after the retirement date.

Even if you hold one of these certifications, Microsoft recommends updating your profile with role-based certifications. These certifications align with modern job roles, ensuring that your skills remain relevant in the rapidly changing IT landscape.

To transition to the new certification paths, start exploring the role-based certifications Microsoft now offers. Whether you are an IT administrator, developer, or solutions architect, there is a certification track that will help you advance your career by providing the specific expertise required for your job role.

What Happens After MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE Retire?

The retirement of the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications marks a pivotal change in Microsoft’s certification approach. After January 31, 2021, candidates will no longer be able to sit for exams to achieve these well-established certifications. Although training programs and preparation materials for these certifications may still be available, the exams themselves will be officially retired, meaning they will no longer be an option for individuals seeking to gain credentials in these tracks. For IT professionals who are still working toward these certifications, this presents a critical deadline to complete all required exams before the final retirement date.

Exam Availability Post-Retirement

Once these certifications retire, Microsoft will discontinue the exams associated with the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE tracks. This means that candidates who wish to pursue these certifications will no longer have access to the official testing options. While it’s possible that training courses related to these certifications will continue to be available for the time being, achieving the actual MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications will not be possible once the retirement date passes. Therefore, any individual currently working toward these certifications must take action before the cutoff date to ensure they meet the necessary requirements.

It’s important to note that although the exams will be retired, the Microsoft certification pathway continues to evolve. Microsoft has introduced role-based certifications that focus on specialized job functions and skills. The aim is to equip professionals with the necessary expertise for specific industry roles. As a result, the retirement of the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE exams is part of a broader shift towards providing more relevant, job-focused credentials that align directly with current and future industry demands.

What Should Candidates Do?

For individuals still working toward obtaining an MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certification, the deadline of January 31, 2021, serves as a final opportunity to complete any outstanding exams. It is highly recommended that candidates ensure they finish all the required exams for these certifications before the retirement date. The necessity to act quickly cannot be overstated, especially for those whose current certifications are prerequisites for other higher-level certifications or specialized job roles.

If you are actively working on earning one of these certifications, it is vital to thoroughly review the requirements and ensure that you’re on track to complete the necessary exams. Microsoft strongly advises all candidates to finalize their certification process before the cutoff date. If the exams are not completed by January 31, 2021, individuals will not be able to earn the certification and will need to explore other certification options offered by Microsoft.

Transition to Role-Based Certifications

After the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications retire, the focus will shift entirely to Microsoft’s role-based certification tracks. These new certifications are designed to reflect specific job roles, helping IT professionals acquire the skills needed for positions such as Azure Administrator, Data Analyst, and Security Engineer. The goal of these certifications is to provide candidates with more industry-relevant skills that are tailored to today’s fast-paced technology landscape.

For those who are currently pursuing an MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE, transitioning to a role-based certification should be part of the long-term strategy. Microsoft’s role-based certifications are not only more aligned with industry needs but also ensure that professionals are prepared for the challenges they will face in their specific job functions. For example, certifications such as the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert or Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate are designed to give professionals the expertise needed to excel in specialized roles within cloud computing, data analytics, and enterprise IT.

What Happens to Existing MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE Certifications?

If you already hold an active MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certification, you do not have to worry about losing your certification after the retirement date. These credentials will remain in your Microsoft transcript for up to two years after the retirement date. However, after this two-year period, they will move to the “inactive” section of your transcript. While your certification will not be valid for active certification purposes beyond this period, it will still serve as proof of your expertise for potential employers or clients.

However, it is highly recommended to update your certification profile by adding relevant role-based certifications to keep your credentials up-to-date. By doing so, you will remain competitive and demonstrate that you have the skills required to meet the demands of today’s IT job market.

Key Considerations for Those in Progress

For candidates who are midway through their certification journey, it is essential to complete all required exams before January 31, 2021. Microsoft strongly encourages individuals working toward these certifications to ensure that they finish all exams, especially if they are working toward a certification that is a prerequisite for another exam. Many individuals may be taking foundational exams that lead to a higher-level certification, and failing to complete the required exams before the cutoff date could mean starting from scratch on a new certification track.

Candidates should also take time to check the exam requirements for any certifications they may want to pursue next. Transitioning to role-based certifications involves aligning your skills with specific job functions, so it’s wise to carefully research the certifications that best align with your career path.

What Will Happen to My Existing MCSA/MCSD/MCSE Certification?

If you currently hold an active MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate), MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer), or MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert) certification, there is no need to be concerned about the validity of these credentials in the short term. These certifications will continue to remain on your Microsoft transcript for up to two years following the retirement date, which is set to occur after January 31, 2021. During this two-year grace period, your certifications will still be considered valid, allowing you to leverage them in your career.

However, after two years, these certifications will transition to the “inactive” section of your transcript, signifying that they are no longer considered active credentials by Microsoft. This means that while they will still appear in your record, they will no longer be recognized as valid certifications for professional purposes. While the certifications won’t lose their historical value, their relevance will fade as the industry shifts toward the more specialized, role-based certifications introduced by Microsoft.

This transition does not mean that your existing certifications become worthless. On the contrary, having MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications on your transcript continues to reflect a solid foundation of skills and knowledge in Microsoft technologies, which many employers still value. The MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications were once the gold standard in the IT industry, and they still represent a significant achievement. However, as technology rapidly evolves and businesses increasingly rely on more specialized roles and solutions, it becomes necessary to adapt to the industry’s changing needs.

Why Transition to Role-Based Certifications?

The major reason for moving towards role-based certifications is the changing demands of the job market. Role-based certifications are designed to cater to specific job functions, ensuring professionals acquire skills directly applicable to the roles they pursue. These certifications focus on practical knowledge needed for the everyday demands of a specific job title, like cloud administrators, data analysts, or security engineers. For example, Microsoft now offers certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert or Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate. These certifications are more aligned with the actual duties performed in those roles, allowing professionals to better demonstrate their expertise in critical, high-demand areas.

With role-based certifications, Microsoft has created paths that allow IT professionals to specialize in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, and cybersecurity. These fields are in high demand, and staying current with the certifications that focus on these areas will make you much more competitive in the ever-changing job market.

Moreover, role-based certifications are a more flexible and comprehensive way to demonstrate expertise. Instead of covering a broad set of Microsoft products as the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE did, these new certifications dive deep into specific job functions, ensuring that certified professionals are truly knowledgeable and effective in the roles they perform. This type of specialization is increasingly sought after by employers who need candidates with practical, in-depth skills to solve real-world problems.

Maintaining Your Competitive Edge

While your existing MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications will remain a part of your transcript for two years, it is important to recognize that the industry is moving toward role-based expertise. After the two-year grace period, these certifications will no longer be counted as active credentials, and new certifications will carry more weight when it comes to validating your skills in the job market.

To remain competitive and relevant, it is highly recommended to start pursuing role-based certifications. Transitioning to certifications that align with modern job functions will ensure that you continue to meet the growing demands of the job market and stay ahead of industry trends. Employers are now increasingly looking for candidates who possess specialized knowledge, especially in areas such as cloud architecture, business intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

One of the best ways to begin this transition is by pursuing certifications that align with your career aspirations. If you’re currently working as a network engineer or systems administrator, pursuing Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert can help you strengthen your expertise in cloud computing, a rapidly growing field. If you’re a developer, you can choose a certification such as Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Developer Associate, which will prove your ability to build and deploy Microsoft solutions.

How to Transition to Role-Based Certifications

If you are currently holding an MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certification, the transition to role-based certifications can be a seamless process. Start by evaluating your current skillset and professional interests. Do you want to continue focusing on cloud technologies, security, or data management? Microsoft offers a range of role-based certifications that cater to these areas, and you can begin the journey by identifying which track aligns most closely with your career goals.

You can further enhance your chances of success by using preparation resources that are specifically tailored to the new certifications. ExamSnap offers comprehensive study materials and practice exams designed for the latest Microsoft certifications, helping you efficiently prepare and pass your exams. By leveraging ExamSnap’s training materials, you can stay ahead of the curve and ensure that you’re well-equipped to tackle these role-based certification exams.

The Future of Microsoft Certifications

As the IT landscape evolves, so do the certifications that Microsoft offers. The shift from broad product-based certifications like MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE to more specific, role-based certifications is a reflection of how the IT industry is adapting to the need for more specialized skills. The retirement of these older certifications provides a chance to take on certifications that are better aligned with current and future industry needs.

While your MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications will still hold value for the next two years, transitioning to role-based certifications is crucial for staying competitive in today’s rapidly evolving job market. These certifications provide more precise, in-depth knowledge of job-specific technologies, helping you develop the expertise necessary for roles in high-demand fields.

The Certifying Exams That Will Be Retired

Microsoft has announced the retirement of several of its certification exams associated with the MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE tracks. These changes are part of a larger initiative to shift the focus of certifications from product-based expertise to role-based certifications that reflect specific job functions in today’s ever-evolving technology landscape. These certifications have been pivotal in the IT industry, validating the skills and knowledge of professionals across a wide range of Microsoft technologies. However, after January 31, 2021, these exams will no longer be available, meaning that professionals currently working toward these certifications must act quickly to complete them before the retirement date.

MCSA Certifications Retiring

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certifications have long been a cornerstone for IT professionals who wanted to demonstrate their proficiency in a range of Microsoft technologies. These certifications have provided foundational knowledge and skills, which helped professionals manage Microsoft’s server technologies, SQL databases, and cloud applications. Below are the MCSA certifications that will be retired by January 31, 2021:

• MCSA: BI Reporting – This certification focused on building business intelligence solutions using Microsoft technologies such as Power BI, SQL Server, and Excel. It was ideal for professionals in data reporting and analytics roles who wanted to enhance their skills in business intelligence.

• MCSA: Dynamics 365 for Operations – This certification was geared toward individuals who worked with Microsoft Dynamics 365 to implement solutions in areas such as finance, operations, and retail. The retirement of this certification reflects a move towards more role-focused Dynamics 365 certifications.

• MCSA: SQL 2016 BI Development – SQL Server remains a critical technology for managing and analyzing data. This certification focused on SQL Server 2016’s business intelligence capabilities, including building reports and data models. As the demand for cloud-based solutions grows, role-based certifications now focus on modern cloud and data solutions.

• MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Admin – This certification validated skills in managing SQL Server databases. Database administrators are still in demand, but the focus is now shifting to cloud technologies and the management of databases within hybrid and cloud environments.

• MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Dev – Like the previous certification, this one focused on SQL Server 2016, specifically for developers who built database solutions. The focus is now shifting to modern development practices, such as cloud-based applications and data solutions.

• MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 – This certification offered foundational skills in managing SQL Server databases. As SQL Server has evolved, the need for a more modern certification focusing on the cloud has increased.

• MCSA: Universal Windows Platform – This certification was for developers working on Windows apps. The emphasis on app development for the Windows platform is now being replaced with role-based certifications in cloud and mobile app development.

• MCSA: Web Applications – Web developers have always been in high demand, and this certification focused on building applications for the web. With the advent of newer technologies and platforms, this certification is now being replaced by more specialized certifications for cloud-based development.

• MCSA: Windows Server 2012 – Windows Server has been a staple in enterprise IT environments, and this certification validated skills in deploying and managing Windows Server 2012. As cloud-based infrastructure becomes the standard, role-based certifications are replacing older server-focused certifications.

• MCSA: Windows Server 2016 – Similar to Windows Server 2012, this certification focused on skills related to the deployment, configuration, and management of Windows Server 2016. The shift towards hybrid and cloud infrastructure has made role-based certifications more relevant than product-specific certifications.

MCSD Certification Retiring

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) certification was designed for developers who wanted to validate their skills in building applications using Microsoft technologies. While software development continues to be an essential skill in the IT industry, the focus has shifted from product-based knowledge to role-specific expertise. The MCSD: App Builder certification will be retired, as Microsoft moves to role-based certifications that are more aligned with modern development needs.

• MCSD: App Builder – This certification focused on building applications for a variety of platforms, including web and mobile applications. With the growing demand for cloud-based solutions and mobile applications, the emphasis is now on certifications that reflect modern development tools and frameworks.

MCSE Certifications Retiring

The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification was the pinnacle of Microsoft’s certification hierarchy. Professionals who earned the MCSE were recognized as experts in fields such as cloud computing, server management, and enterprise applications. However, as the industry increasingly moves towards specialized, role-specific skills, the MCSE certifications will no longer be available. The certifications that will retire include:

• MCSE: Business Applications – This certification validated expertise in Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform applications. As Microsoft’s focus shifts to role-based certifications, the Business Applications certification will be replaced with certifications that focus on specific business roles.

• MCSE: Core Infrastructure – This certification was for professionals who specialized in managing core Microsoft infrastructure technologies, including Windows Server and virtualized environments. The focus is now on hybrid cloud environments and certifications that reflect the growing demand for cloud administration and infrastructure management.

• MCSE: Data Management & Analytics – This certification validated expertise in managing and analyzing data using Microsoft technologies. The demand for data management is still strong, but with the move towards cloud and big data, role-based certifications now focus on specific tools and technologies for managing large datasets in cloud environments.

• MCSE: Productivity – This certification focused on skills related to managing Microsoft productivity tools, such as Office 365 and SharePoint. With the shift towards cloud technologies, the focus has shifted to certifications that better reflect the management of cloud-based productivity and collaboration tools.

The Impact of Certification Retirement

The retirement of these certifications signals a significant shift in how Microsoft is approaching certification and training. With the growing emphasis on cloud computing, data analytics, and business intelligence, role-based certifications have become more relevant for today’s IT workforce. Professionals who hold or are working towards MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications should ensure they complete their exams before the retirement date to earn their certifications.

For those who are unable to complete their certifications before the deadline, Microsoft recommends transitioning to the new role-based certifications that reflect specific job functions, such as Azure Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator, or Power BI Data Analyst. These certifications align better with current industry trends and will provide professionals with the expertise they need to stay competitive in today’s job market.

Key Exams Retiring on January 31, 2021

The following exams will no longer be available after 11:59 PM Central Time on January 31, 2021. Candidates planning to sit for these exams must do so before the retirement date:

• 70-333: Deploying Enterprise Voice with Skype for Business 2015

• 70-334: Core Solutions for Microsoft Skype for Business 2015

• 70-339: Managing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2016

• 70-345: Designing and Deploying Microsoft Exchange Server 2016

• 70-457: Developing Mobile Apps

• 70-410: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012

• 70-411: Administering Windows Server 2012

• 70-412: Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services

• 70-413: Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure

• 70-414: Implementing an Advanced Server Infrastructure

• 70-417: Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA Windows Server 2012

• 70-461: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014

• 70-462: Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases

• 70-463: Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014

• 70-464: Developing Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases

• 70-465: Designing Database Solutions for Microsoft SQL Server

• 70-466: Implementing Data Models and Reports with Microsoft SQL Server

• 70-467: Designing Business Intelligence Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server

• 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3

• 70-483: Programming in C#

• 70-486: Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications

• 70-487: Developing Microsoft Azure and Web Services

• 70-537: Configuring and Operating a Hybrid Cloud with Microsoft Azure Stack

• 70-705: Designing and Providing Microsoft Licensing Solutions to Large Organizations

• 70-740: Installation, Storage, and Compute with Windows Server 2016

• 70-741: Networking with Windows Server 2016

• 70-742: Identity with Windows Server 2016

• 70-743: Upgrading Your Skills to MCSA: Windows Server 2016

• 70-744: Securing Windows Server 2016

• 70-745: Implementing a Software-Defined Datacenter

• 70-761: Querying Data with Transact-SQL

• 70-762: Developing SQL Databases

• 70-764: Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure

• 70-765: Provisioning SQL Databases

• 70-767: Implementing a Data Warehouse using SQL

• 70-768: Developing SQL Data Models

• 70-777: Implementing Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Solutions

• 70-778: Analyzing and Visualizing Data with Microsoft Power BI

• 70-779: Analyzing and Visualizing Data with Microsoft Excel

• MB2-716: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customization and Configuration

• MB6-894: Development, Extensions and Deployment for Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance

• MB6-897: Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Retail

• MB6-898: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Human Resources

What Should You Do Next?

If you are actively working on any of the certifications that are due to retire, it is crucial to complete the exams before January 31, 2021. After that date, the exams will no longer be available, and the certifications will no longer be attainable.

Microsoft recommends that you transition to the new role-based certifications. These certifications are designed to be more aligned with real-world job functions and industry needs. You can explore Microsoft’s recommended certification paths to find one that suits your career goals.

The Path Forward: Transitioning to Role-Based Certifications

As Microsoft moves away from product-centric certifications, candidates should look into role-based certifications that offer a broader and more practical understanding of key industry roles. Some of the newer certifications include:

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

• Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate

These certifications are designed to cater to specific job roles, providing you with the skills necessary to excel in real-world situations.

Conclusion: Embracing the Shift from MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE Certifications

The retirement of Microsoft’s MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications represents a pivotal moment for IT professionals who have relied on these credentials to boost their careers. As of January 31, 2021, these certifications will no longer be available, marking a significant shift in Microsoft’s certification strategy. While this change may seem daunting for many who have spent considerable time working towards these certifications, it also opens up new opportunities to focus on more relevant, specialized role-based certifications.

These certifications were once considered the gold standard for validating skills in areas such as Windows Server, SQL Server, cloud computing, and more. However, as the technology landscape rapidly evolves, it has become clear that the traditional product-based certifications like MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE no longer fully meet the needs of modern employers. Today, businesses and organizations are increasingly seeking professionals who possess expertise in specific job roles, such as cloud administrators, data analysts, or cybersecurity experts, rather than general knowledge of specific products. This is where the shift towards role-based certifications comes into play.

What Does This Change Mean for You?

For professionals who are currently working toward or have already achieved MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE certifications, the next steps are crucial. It’s important to complete any remaining exams before the January 31, 2021 deadline if you are aiming to earn these certifications. After this date, these exams will no longer be available, and the certifications will no longer be attainable. If you are still pursuing one of these certifications, take action now and ensure that you finish all the required exams before the cutoff date.

While the retirement of these certifications might cause some uncertainty, it is important to remember that your MCSA, MCSD, or MCSE credentials will remain on your Microsoft transcript for up to two years after the retirement date. During this period, the certifications will be recognized, but after two years, they will transition to the “inactive” section of your transcript. This shift reflects the growing demand for professionals with specialized, up-to-date knowledge in areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and security.

Even though these certifications will still be visible on your transcript, their relevance will diminish over time, particularly as the industry continues to embrace role-based certifications. This is an important consideration for IT professionals who are looking to stay ahead of industry trends and keep their skills aligned with the evolving demands of the job market.

Why Role-Based Certifications Are the Future

The transition from product-based to role-based certifications is Microsoft’s response to the fast-changing nature of the technology sector. Instead of certifying professionals based on their knowledge of specific products, role-based certifications focus on the practical skills needed for particular job functions. These certifications validate a professional’s ability to perform real-world tasks required in specific roles such as cloud administration, data analysis, application development, and security management.

Role-based certifications are designed to be more aligned with industry needs and ensure that IT professionals can meet the challenges of today’s digital workforce. For example, Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert focuses on skills required to design cloud infrastructure and solutions using Microsoft Azure. Similarly, Microsoft Certified: Power BI Data Analyst Associate focuses on skills in data analysis and business intelligence using Power BI. These certifications are more relevant to the roles that are currently in high demand and provide professionals with specialized skills that are critical in today’s technology-driven world.

This shift also enables professionals to specialize in areas that match their career goals and interests. Whether you’re interested in cloud technologies, security, or data management, role-based certifications offer clear paths for career growth and specialization. In contrast to the broader approach of MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE certifications, role-based certifications focus on specific expertise, making them more directly applicable to today’s job market.