It's likely that you probably enjoy fairly practical work - the 'hands-on' person. If you're anything like us, the world of book-reading and classrooms can be just about bared when essential, but it's not really your thing. So look for on-screen interactive learning packages if books just don't do it for you. Studies in learning psychology have shown that memory is aided when we involve as many senses as possible, and we take action to use what we've learned.

Interactive full motion video involving demonstration and virtual lab's beat books hands-down. And they're far more fun. Every company that you look at must be pushed to demo some examples of their courseware. Expect video tutorials, instructor led classes and a wide selection of interactive elements.

It is generally unwise to go for purely on-line training. Because of the variable quality and reliability of your average broadband company, it makes sense to have physical media such as CD or DVD ROM's.

Around the world, the most common database-systems are Oracle and Microsoft 'SQL' Server. The mature System Oracle continues to be seen in many large enterprises. Even so, most company Databases & pretty much all databases on-line have adopted the SQL Server System. Since MS own their SQL Server technology, its been readily incorporated in to all of their programming languages & platforms, making it a clear choice for all those hoping to attain certification and industrial recognition. Qualifications have now been up-dated, & the 'MCDBA' (Microsoft Certified Database Administrator) has now been replaced by the MCITP ('Microsoft Certified IT Professional') and the MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist). Even though 'SQL' Server '08 is beginning to secure some foot-hold, the current widespread commercial version of Microsoft SQL Server is 2005, and its this release which is included in the 'MCITP' DBA certification. Much like various other MS qualifications, several MCTS modules come before the complete 'MCITP' accreditation.

A fatal Faux-Pas that many potential students make is to choose a career based on a course, instead of focusing on the end result they want to achieve. Colleges are brimming over with unaware students that chose a program because it looked interesting - instead of the program that would surely get them the career they desired. You could be training for only a year and end up doing the actual job for 10-20 years. Don't make the error of choosing what sounds like an 'interesting' course and then put 10-20 years into a job you hate!

It's a good idea to understand the expectations of your industry. Which particular exams you'll need and in what way you can gain some industry experience. It's also worth spending time considering how far you reckon you're going to want to go as it will affect your choice of exams. Look for help from a professional advisor who 'gets' the commercial realities of the area you're interested in, and will be able to provide 'A typical day in the life of' understanding of of what you'll be doing with each working day. It just makes sense to ensure you're on the right track before your course begins. There's little point in beginning your training only to find you've taken the wrong route.

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