Are these good certifications?


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I'm considering changing schools (I'm in university pursuing and education degree right now, and find it's just not for me). I'm considering Compucollege (a private institution that offers IT based diplomas). Anyway, I'm interested in their Information Systems Specialist program, which offers the following certifications . . .

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+ and Network+ Certifications

Certified Novell Administrator (CNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

Now this program costs $16 000 CDN :pinch: for a two year program, which includes the cost of the cert exams, and books, lab fees etc. I was just curious, if anyone with some of these certifications could tell me, is worth the money and time to take this program, will I be able to land a good position coming out of this program and make some money, or will these certifications just end me up working in a call center or something. I've been in contact with the school and they tell you you'll make great money and easily get a job etc. but they're just trying to get your money. I just wanted to know if anyone in the IT industry could tell me if it's worth my while to take this program. I'm mostly concerned with the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification, I know you need Cisco to get anywhere in the industry, but this is the entry level certification, and I wanted to know if that's enough? Will it help me get a job and possibly obtain higher certifications in the future. Thanks for the help guys, your response will be really appreciated.

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You should have some sort of degree in your hands then go for certifications after you complete it, It is an in complete job done without a degree which is actually a basic requirement to pursue a high-end career in the industry in any country.

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Are you saying I should have a university degree and then take this?? I mean the program isn't just the certifications, it is a diploma program, it's just that all of the certification exams are taken throughout the program, so that when you leave, you have your diploma, as well as the certifications, and there's a 160 hour work term in the last month. I understand what your saying about a degree, but wouldn'ta diploma porgram (like a college, not a university) be essentially the same thing?

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I would argue that a degree is NOT as necessary as people make out.

Real world experience, combined with industry recognised certifications such as MCSE, CCNA, RHCE are much more important.

I know if I was hiring a tech / admin (and I have done interviews for this recently) i'd be looking for someone who has done the job, knows the score, and has some certifications to back that knowledge up.

I'd definately say the real world experience is the most important though.. qualifications without the hands on experience generally mean jack. You could work your way through certs in a 'boot camp' environment and never actually get your hands on the proper kit.

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In the northeast area of the USA, university degrees mean nothing. When I was in the job market, no one cared about degrees. Certifications were so-so. Certification plus real hard core experience was gold.

Number one thing is experience hands down. Without it, you won't get any jobs. Getting a degree never hurts though. If you can do it, go for a degree of any time, do a cert, and do tons of work. Volenteer or intern while in school and get some names and references on your resume.

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The program offers on the job training at the end of every semester, and you intern with a company your final year. Also, certain parts of the program are actually instructed by local professionals, so they see who has talent in their specific field. You guys have been a great help, I think I'll go check out the school next week and make my decision for sure. Thanks for the input guys.

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