Unix Certification Online Opens Doors for Networking Careers

Many people enter the work force with a degree in computers. Some are advanced degrees while others are associates degrees. UNIX certification is sure to open doors to many human resource departments since UNIX is a common operating system in the corporate world. For example, large employers -- like IBM -- use a form of UNIX. Certification opens doors for applicants and – once employed -- it may encourage an employer to pay for additional certifications.

Obtaining and online UNIX certification is not difficult. There are many online schools offering this kind of online coursework. Remember that this is a certificate worth having, if you plan on a career in computer networking.

After all, holding a UNIX certification shows employers that you have the understanding of how a UNIX based network operates. Certification proves that you know how to run the network as well as trouble shoot basic problems. Unlike many other certification programs, a UNIX certification is standardized. To an employer, this is a virtual guarantee when it comes to knowing what they are getting when an applicant is UNIX certified.

Any coursework for a UNIX certification will include the basics such as system administration, operating system fundamentals, shell programming, and the UNIX user environment. Although none of the certificate programs have prerequisites, a basic knowledge and understanding of how computers work and some form of programming knowledge will make earning the certification much easier.

To find a school offering UNIX certification, search online. Before deciding on a school make sure it is accredited and that it is reputable. Some certification courses are closer to a correspondence course, but they include CDs and online mentoring.

There are also fiscal considerations to think about before you enter into a contract with any one particular school. If you are currently unemployed and are receiving benefits, you may entitled to government backed grants or loans. Many employers will pay -- or help you pay -- for UNIX certification. Employees, who have been laid off, may have retraining benefits as part of their severance packages. As you can see, UNIX certification online may not cost you anything, depending on your financial circumstances. See my article on How to Pay for College with a Tuition Assistance Program for more information on how to pay for online training.