4/20/2001 -- This week Novell announced major changes to its Master Certified Novell Engineer (Master CNE) program, including consolidating all of the title's eight specialization tracks into one streamlined certification.

Previously, Master CNE candidates chose a specialization (connectivity, integration, etc.), and then followed that path's core and elective requirements to receive certification in their chosen area. With the elimination of the tracks, all new participants will now take a common core exam -- TCP/IP for Networking professionals -- followed by three electives of the candidate's choice (nine are available).

"We wanted to simplify [the program] and add real meaning to the word 'Master,'" Jim Greene, Novell's director of certification, told CertCities. "This [new program] gives candidates flexibility and increases the value of the certification...Employers will say 'This is a Master CNE -- I know the skills this person has, I know what they can do.'"

Greene also said that the simplification will help Novell manage the program better. "It [will be] easier for us to keep curriculum up to date with the technology....which is, quite frankly, a problem we have had."

One master CNE we talked with thinks the new program structure is a step in the right direction for Novell. "I like the fact that they got rid of some of the old classes with antiquated technology," said Warren Wyrostek, a Master CNI who holds several of the specialized Master CNE titles. "The single track gives the impression that Novell is taking a more focused approach with this title...and perception is everything."

However, Wyrostek remains somewhat skeptical as to the overall impact the overhaul will have: "My concern with this is that if Novell doesn't support [the program] with the authorized education partners...it won't mean much."

According to Greene, candidates who started pursuing a specialized Master CNE before the change was announced will have until the end of the year to complete their track requirements. Greene also said that anyone who already holds one or more Master CNE title can still use their specialty designation(s): "We're not trying to take anything away from anyone."

A blueprint of the new program's requirements can be found on the education home page of the Novell Web site. -B.N.