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What kind of training, certifications do i need to work in Computer Networking?

I have CCNA, CCNP and IP Telephony Project Manager cert's along with 15 years of experience in Cisco, configuring call centers, main frames, network management platforms. I am having difficulty now obtaining work since my last job in 2006 (due to illness). Do I need a Bachelor's degree to be marketable in this field? Or just CCNA,CCNP, CCIE or both to be competetive?

Public Comments

1. MCSE master in computer scienses in entire networking
2. A degree is definitely a good thing, but with all of your experience it seems that you would be ok. They usually require a degree or equal experience in the field, I think you should be ok. Keep looking and don't give up, things take time.
3. A BS would be very helpful. It will help you stand out from the crowd. At least start taking classes (either at a 4-year school or a community college), you can work on trying to land a job at the same time. It will be busy for you, but it could be the best way to go. Good luck!
4. I would say maybe get a MCSE or MCSA cert under your belt. A lot of companies now want their employees to be well rounded in their certifications. Competition is fierce these days with qualifications going up and pay going down. Keep your head up and be confident!
5. This is a problem in all fields, not just yours: those with the certifications and official training lack the experience, while those who have the experience lack the documentation. That is as much as I know about your question: I confess I don't know anything about networking accredation. However, I do think that it is a very good idea for you to seek the degree while you seek the job. You obviously know what you're doing, you can help teach the class for extra credit, it'll be fun. Before you know it, you'll have a job and a whole portfolio of reasons you deserve a raise. =)