10/3/2000 -- This summer ProsoftTraining.com added several new elements to its Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) program, including an associate-level certification and a fast-track option for MCSEs and CNEs.

The new CIW Associate program is available to anyone who passes the CIW Foundations exam (#1D0-410)--the first requirement for any CIW professional- or master-level certification. According to Prosoft, applying to becoming an Associate is optional; those who do not want the title simply do not apply, and they can still pursue any the company's professional- or master-level certs.

i-Accelerate is Prosoft's new fast-track program for MCSEs and CNEs pursuing the company's Master CIW Administrator certification. Normally, a candidate would first need to pass four exams to achieve this designation. With i-Accelerate, the number is cut to two: the CIW Foundations exam and the new i-Accelerate exam, "Master CIW Administrator for Microsoft and Novell" (#1D0-425).

According to the company, the I-Accelerate exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions divided into three modules: server administration, internetworking and security. To pass, candidates must answer at least 70 percent of the questions in each module correctly and achieve an overall score of at least 75 percent. The cost of the exam is $175. Training classes are available.

Possible candidates should note that i-Accelerate is not available for the other two Master CIW certifications: Developer and Enterprise Designer. Also, while the program is open to both established MCSEs and CNEs, as well as those currently seeking either certification, there are restrictions on who can qualify.

For more information on the CIW program, please visit www.ciwcertified.com/default.asp. - B.N.