The Open University becomes a certified Microsoft IT Academy
The Open University (OU) is now a certified Microsoft IT Academy adding to its fast-growing suite of IT vendor certifications. The first course in the OU's Microsoft IT Academy programme TM128 Microsoft server technologies launches in October 2010 and registration is now open. The establishment of the Microsoft IT Academy builds on the OU's successful relationship with Cisco - it currently has the largest and fastest growing Cisco Academy in the UK.
The Open University (OU) is now a certified Microsoft IT Academy adding to its fast-growing suite of IT vendor certifications.
The first course in the OU's Microsoft IT Academy programme TM128 Microsoft server technologies launches in October 2010. The course, purpose-designed by the OU, covers both the fundamentals of computer networks and the specifics of how Windows server technologies can be used practically. Registration is now open for the 30-credit Level 1 module.
Microsoft server technologies will form part of the requirement for both Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) and Microsoft Certified System Administrator (MCSA) programmes, and forms part of the pathway to MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional) certification. The course can also be counted towards an Open University modular degree.
It aims to help both IT workers looking for a course of study with workplace relevance, and professionals looking to work towards Microsoft certification, without disrupting normal work patterns - a major benefit both to IT workers and employers.
It will enable access to industry certification that previously may have been beyond the reach of individuals and companies, in line with The Open University's philosophy of extending learning into the IT skills sector, and it will be complementary to the established IT training market.
The establishment of the Microsoft IT Academy builds on the OU's successful relationship with Cisco - it currently has the largest and fastest growing Cisco Academy in the UK. As a recognised Cisco Academy, the OU already offers the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Certified Networking Professional (CCNP) programmes. T216 Cisco Networking (CCNA) is a computing and telecoms industry recognised qualification focused on network communication and offers employment and career opportunities internationally.
Continuing its suite of vendor certifications, the OU also offers T155 Linux: an introduction, which is supported by CompTIA, the worldwide providers of Linux+ certification.
And in an exciting new development, the OU has signed up with VMware to become one of the first VMware Academies in the UK. A certification course is currently being developed.
The Open University is accredited with the Institute of IT Training (IITT) for its e-learning platform and for its course content.
For further information about The Open University's Microsoft IT Academy certified TM128 course, visit www.openuniversity.co.uk/tm128.