2/17/2004 -- Yesterday IBM announced it will soon debut two new WebSphere certifications: IBM Certified System Administrator, WebSphere Portal 5.0; and IBM Certified Solution Developer, WebSphere Portal 5.0.

The first credential is aimed at "intermediate-level implementers, administrators or architects who design and/or implement WebSphere Portal," IBM said. It will require passing one exam, #347, IBM WebSphere Portal 5.0, Deployment and Administration.

The Developer title is for "intermediate-level J2EE developers, architects or consultants who design or develop portal solutions," the company said. This title requires passing exam #348, IBM WebSphere Portal 5.0, Application Development.

Both exams will debut at Prometric and Pearson Vue testing centers worldwide on March 1. Pricing will vary by location: In most countries, the exams will cost $100 (U.S.), but they will cost $40 (U.S.) in what IBM terms "emerging market countries."

For a limited time, IBM will offer free vouchers for both exams. Candidates must qualify for the free voucher by passing an online assessment exam. The assessment costs $10 (U.S.). The first 100 who pass the assessment for each exam will be granted the free voucher, good through June 30.

For more information on these certifications and the free testing offer, click here. -Becky Nagel