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As most IT professionals would imagine, acquiring additional certifications and education is an advantage for any career. Improving your technical skills and knowledge is often related to a higher economic status and your employment marketability. In an industry that is so competitive, you will hold an advantage over other less qualified candidates. In the December 2002 Certification Magazine’s Annual Salary Survey, 31% received a job promotion within a year of receiving a technical certification and 92% said certification was responsible for their career advancement.
With the advantages of certification, comes the initial cost and work of obtaining it. The financial cost of certification can be hindering and may not be feasible for some, more so for those who are recent graduates, junior IT professionals, and those who are changing careers. However, there are many options to those who wish to seek higher education. But remember, your initial investment is tied in with your return.
One of the first things that someone seeking certification training would need, would be to decide what type of certification and IT field that they would like to pursue. It needs to be a decision based on what would best support your aspirations and employment needs and desires. Secondly, the costs of the certification need to be considered; such as, training, exams, software/hardware, books, and financing.
Financing, a subject that brings us to a few suggestions that should be considered. Remember to hold the same respect and consideration for financing your education as you do the same manner for a house or vehicle, keep in mind to borrow as little as possible. It is important that you educate yourself about options and available resources. Look to your current employer for tuition assistance, and research scholarships at the training facility. As for a financing plan, find one that is most flexible with repayment and has a competitive interest rate in relation to your credit score.
Here at ASM, we offer both scholarships and financing options. For those that qualify, we will provide a $2,000.00 scholarship to be used for one certification training course. As an additional incentive, we will provide free practice tests. As for a financing option, we allow the cost of the course to be paid in monthly payments, to be finished by the last day of class. Contact us to know how to finance your certification training.
June, 2006 -
Stephanie N. Gray
