Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) is the term used to describe an individual who completes a professional certification program by Microsoft. Microsoft certifications train individuals on implementing Microsoft products into practical business environments.
This basic level of certification is the first step to receiving any advanced Microsoft certification. A single exam is required, costing approximately $80 US dollars and generally taking between 2 and 3 hours to complete.
There are many branches of technological services that build off this basic Microsoft Certified (MC) certification; IT Professional (MCITP), architect (MCA), professional developer (MCPD), technology specialist (MCTS), Solution Associate (MCSA), Solution Expert (MCSE), solution developer (MCSD) and database administrator (MCDBA). Each branch builds off the competency and knowledge of Microsoft products and technology.