The change ends an era that began around a decade ago. However, it comes for a good reason. The retirement is the result of changes to Microsoft’s role-based training and certifications that began in 2018. It sees the new role system as better suited to the modern workplace, with a total of 34 new certifications now available. In the meantime, those who want an MCSA, MCSD, and MCSE can pass the exam before June 30. They’ll remain on the active section of user’s transcripts for two years after the closure date, at which point the certifications will be marked ‘inactive’. Here’s the full list of certifications that you’ll no longer be able to obtain:
MCSA: BI Reporting MCSA: Dynamics 365 for Operations MCSA: SQL 2016 BI Development MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Admin MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Dev MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014 MCSA: Universal Windows Platform MCSA: Web Applications MCSA: Windows Server 2012 MCSA: Windows Server 2016 MCSD: App Builder MCSE: Business Applications MCSE: Core Infrastructure MCSE: Data Management & Analytics MCSE: Productivity
Microsoft has provided several recommended migration paths for users and confirms that Windows Server 2019 and SQL Server certifications will not become available. Instead, it says the relevant content will be included in new role-based certifications for certain job roles. Notably, MOS and MTA certifications won’t be affected by this retirement.
