Definition
The term Microsoft Certified System Engineer refers to a program designed for candidates wishing to further their careers in information technology (IT). The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) exam tests the candidate's ability to design and build technology solutions.
Explanation
The MCSE is a high-level certification program that assesses the candidate's ability to perform certain technical tasks, which may include multiple technology products and / or span multiple versions of the same technology. The program is designed for individuals that have received their MSCA certification and wish to demonstrate their expertise in one or more areas of focus, which are subdivided into multiple examinations, including:
Business Intelligence: exams include querying SQL servers, administering SQL servers, implementing a data warehouse, implementing data models, and designing business intelligence solutions.
Communications: exams include installing and configuring a server, administering a server, configuring services, core solutions of Lync servers, and enterprise voice and online services.
Data Platforms: exams include querying SQL servers, administering SQL servers, implementing a data warehouse, developing SQL databases, and designing database solutions for SQL servers.
Desktop Infrastructure: exams include installing and configuring servers, administering servers, configuring advanced services, implementing a desktop infrastructure, and implementing desktop application environments.
Messaging: exams include installing and configuring servers, administering servers, configuring advanced services, core solutions of Exchange servers, and advanced solutions of Exchange servers.
Private Cloud: exams include installing and configuring servers, administering servers, configuring advanced services, monitoring and operating a private cloud, and configuring and deploying a private cloud.
Server Infrastructure: exams include installing and configuring servers, administering servers, configuring advanced services, designing and implementing a server infrastructure, and implementing an advanced server infrastructure.
SharePoint: exams include installing and configuring servers, administering servers, configuring advanced services, core solutions of SharePoint servers, and advanced solutions of SharePoint servers.
Examinees are given 50 minutes to answer 40 to 60 questions; test results are available immediately following the exam. The results of the examination are scaled such that a passing score is 700 or higher. If a candidate does not receive a passing score, they may retake the test in 24 hours. If a passing score is not achieved on the second attempt, the candidate must wait seven days before making subsequent attempts. After the fifth unsuccessful attempt, the candidate must wait 12 months before starting the exam retake process again.