MCSD Certification

The MCSD (Microsoft Certified Solution Developer) certification is aimed at candidates who wish to demonstrate the ability, within a corporate setting, to design, implement and administer business solutions using Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0 and .NET Framework 1.1. Typically, an MCSD qualified person would use the relevent Microsoft technologies to develop and maintain department-level applications, components, Web or desktop clients, or back-end data services, or works in a team that develops enterprise applications.




To become MCSD qualified candidates must successfully pass 5 exams with each one concentrating on a different aspect:

• Web applications development (one exam)


• Windows applications development (one exam)


• Web services and server components (one exam)


• Solution architecture (one exam)


• One elective exam (candidate can choose from a number of choices)

Important! Most of the exams for the MCSD certification track have now been retired by Microsoft, including all of the 'required' exams. This means that it is now impossible for anyone just starting out to complete the MCSD certification (candidates should instead look to one of Microsoft's new generation certification tracks). If, however, a candidate has already successfully passed all of the required exams, there are still some elective exams that are active which means the candidate can continue to complete their MCSD certification.

For candidates wishing to pursue a Microsoft credential similar to that of the MCSD, the newer Microsoft MCPD certification should be considered.

For those who are already have the MCSD certification, Microsoft offer upgrade exams for those wish to become MCPD qualified (visit the official Microsoft MCSD web page for more details).

Microsoft exams typically cost US$125 each, although there may be local currency variations depending on the candidate's location, and can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Thompson Prometric testing center. Check with your local testing center for up-to-date price information. Keep in mind that there are discount vouchers available for most Microsoft exams that not only reduce the cost of the exam but also include free training material. Discount vouchers can be bought through independant third-party suppliers.