Microsoft Certified Application Developer (MCAD) for Microsoft .NET

The Microsoft® Certified Application Developer (MCAD) for Microsoft .NET credential is for developers who use Microsoft Visual Studio® .NET and the .NET Framework to develop, deploy, and maintain department-level applications and components for Microsoft Windows® and the Web. These developers also build enterprise solutions incorporating data services and XML Web services. The MCAD credential covers job roles that include tasks such as building, testing, and supporting the following:

• Windows and Web applications built on the Microsoft .NET Framework
• .NET-connected applications and services

Individuals working in these job roles typically have at least one to two years of relevant work experience.

The technology and tools to build powerful applications

Microsoft .NET is software that connects information, people, systems, and devices. Built on Web service standards, Microsoft .NET enables both new and existing applications to connect with software and services across platforms, applications, and programming languages. Microsoft Visual Studio .NET is a comprehensive development tool for creating leading-edge applications. Web Services enable you to assemble applications from new and existing code, regardless of platform, programming language, or object model.

Training enhances your skill level and expertise

MCAD training enhances and accelerates your ability to create .NET-connected applications and services using Microsoft Visual Studio .NET and the .NET Framework. Microsoft .NET training is created by real-world experts and is structured around typical application developer job roles. This is so students can learn comprehensive .NET solutions in their area of expertise. Training content is deep, relevant, and vital for building skills and pursuing certification.

MCAD for Microsoft .NET increases your opportunities

The MCAD credential was created in response to industry demand for developers trained and certified to show that they have acquired the necessary skills to successfully implement applications, components, and services built on the Microsoft .NET Framework. Certification validation studies have consistently shown that certified individuals perform better than non-certified individuals on the job. The MCAD for Microsoft .NET credential demonstrates your ability to use the power of Microsoft Visual Studio .NET and Web services to be more productive. Earning the MCAD for .NET certification is proof of technology know-how, allowing developers and businesses alike to market their up-to-date knowledge. Developers will have a strong foundation for moving into a lead developer role, and employers will have standards for promoting and hiring developers.

Typical job titles for MCAD

• Programmer
• Programmer/Analyst
• Software Developer

Value to individual developers

• Earning the MCAD for .NET credential demonstrates that you are up-to-date with technology and that you possess developer knowledge and skills.
• The MCAD certification represents a subset of the skills required by the Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) for Microsoft .NET certification. The exams required to earn the MCAD credential also count toward the MCSD for .NET credential.
• The MCAD credential enhances your professional status with clients and employers.

Value to hiring managers and organizations

• The MCAD for .NET credential promotes technical readiness for the adoption of Microsoft .NET.
• MCAD training and certification can provide a reliable benchmark for hiring and promotions.
• The MCAD credential offers a career step for company developers.
• MCAD for .NET helps ensure that an organization is built on top-quality technical talent.
• When outsourcing development work, the MCAD credential provides vendor qualification assurance.

Choose your path for .NET training and MCAD certification

MCAD for .NET candidates will be required to pass two core exams and one elective exam. Choose a .NET language (Visual Basic .NET or Visual C# .NET) to leverage existing skills and to become familiar with the Microsoft .NET Framework. Then, to fulfill the core certification requirements, pass one exam focused on either Web application development or Windows-based application development in the language of your choice. Demonstrate additional skills by passing one exam on XML Web services and server components. Finally, pass one elective exam to complete the certification.

Exam requirements for MCAD for Microsoft .NET