9/3/2003 -- Today Unisys Systems announced a new certification program with a new title for data center IT pros: Unisys Data Center Certified Professional.

The title requires passing one exam jointly developed by Microsoft and Unisys: Implementing and Supporting Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Solutions in the Data Center.

According to a Unisys spokesperson, Microsoft approached the companyto develop the new exam, which will serve as an elective for the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Windows Server 2003 certification track. More information about this elective option is expected to be posted on Microsoft's and Unisys' Web sites shortly.

The exam is currently available through Friday in beta format for free at Prometric testing centers worldwide. When it goes live Oct. 27, it will cost $150.

Unisys offers training for the title, but does not require it to earn the certification.

Unisys plans to release more credentials soon, including one focused on its Application Sentinel management software, the spokesperson said.

For more information on Unisys' new certification program and the Data Center beta exam, go here. -Becky Nagel