Microsoft Office Certification Training

In a competitive job environment, being able to prove proficiency in common software is a good way to differentiate yourself from the many other people applying for a limited pool of jobs. Microsoft Office is the most common computer productivity suite used in global business. Becoming certified in the Microsoft Office suite of applications, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher and Access, will show an employer that you have been objectively tested as proficient in some of the core applications critical to success.

Types of Certification

There are two types of Microsoft Office certification. For people who want to become certified in a single application, Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) is available. MCAS certification is available for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Access. People wanting more comprehensive certification can become a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS). There are three levels of MOS certification: Specialist, Expert and Master. The different levels require that you pass a series of examinations that increase in difficulty for each certification level.

Books

One way to become certified is to buy a well known book about Microsoft Office and its associated applications. If independent learning suits your learning style, this is an excellent option as you will have the book for reference once certified. Most books from reputable technical publishers also include a CD with helpful files, examples and, in some cases, computer based training (CBT) supplements. Once you have worked your way through the book exercises, you will need to take and pass an examination at a Certified Microsoft Testing Center to become certified.

Computer Based Training

A number of companies make CBT programs to help people prepare for Microsoft Office certification. Full CBT programs are good for people who would like frequent reviews and a more guided study program than provided by books. CBT programs are good if you need frequent feedback on your level of knowledge. If you find that you need to review a previous section, CBT programs make this quick and easy. Like book tutorials, most CBT programs will require that you go to a Certified Microsoft Testing Center to take and pass an examination before you will be certified.

Online Training

Online training is similar to CBT. The difference is that online training is available from any computer with a browser. Online training generally gives you frequent quizzes and feedback on your level of understanding and will generally require you to go to a Microsoft Certified Testing Center to pass a certification exam.

Classroom Training

Classroom training is available with certified Microsoft trainers. There are two types of classroom training. The first is in a classroom provided by the trainer. People from different companies and backgrounds will gather for training. Certified trainers will often offer classes in a company that has enough employees wanting to become certified in a particular area. An advantage of having a certified trainer is that people can ask questions on areas that might not be clear in book, CBT or online training. Many Microsoft Certified Testing Centers also provide certified trainers. If they do, the certification exam is often administered at the end of the training session. If the certified trainer is not from a Microsoft Certified Testing Center, students in the class will need to take and pass an examination at the end of the course to become certified.

Examination

Once you feel you have mastered all aspects of Microsoft Office, you are ready for the examination. Some CBT, online and classroom tutorial providers may be certified as a testing center by Microsoft. If your tutorial provider is certified, it is a simple matter of taking and passing an examination at the end of your coursework to become certified in Microsoft Office. If you studied on your own using books, you will need to find a Microsoft Certified Testing Center and pass the test to become certified.

Resources

• Find a Certified Microsoft Office Testing Center