6/11/2007 -- Microsoft this week announced a new title for its high-level architect series of certifications: Microsoft Certified Architect: Database. The title is now among two "Technology architecture skills" that the company offers; the other is MCA: Messaging, which was released June of last year.

In much the same way that the MCA: Messaging focuses on an architect's ability to provide well planned networks that might incorporate a myriad number of messaging services, the MCA: Database focuses on a database architect's skills to plan, develop and program against a number of database languages and technologies, with emphasis on Microsoft SQL Server.

Enrollment into the MCA: Database program is limited to candidates who work for Microsoft or a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner member and who've received a nomination from an MCA: Database holder, a member of the SQL Server team or Microsoft employee. And enrollment isn't cheap -- $25,000 -- and paying that doesn't guarantee that the candidate will pass the program.

Because the title is specialized, it also comes with a few other rigorous requirements. Candidates must have passes either exams 70-290: Managing and Maintaining Windows Server 2003 or 70-292: Managing Windows 2003 for an MCSA-Win2K, and then have already attained MCITP status as either a Database Developer or Database Administrator. Microsoft also recommends that candidates also have extensive experience with MSF and ITIL.

Attaining MCA: Database status also requires a major time commitment. According to the press release issued on the program, candidates must attend four weeks of training in Redmond, led by instructors comprised of SQL Server team members, as well as complete written exams each week. Much like the rest of the MCA program, candidates will have to complete a lab-based skills exam and appear before a peer review board.

For more about the MCA: Database, click here. To read about the MCA program from MCPmag.com, click here. -Michael Domingo, courtesy of MCPmag.com