In a move to bolster tech education and accessibility, Microsoft has announced a collaboration with freeCodeCamp to launch a free Foundational C# Certification. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive training in C#, a leading programming language. As highlighted by Katie Savage in the official announcement, “the Foundational C# Certification is completely free, globally available, and includes a full 35-hour C# training course hosted on Microsoft Learn”.
What the Certification Entails
The certification is designed to offer a robust foundation in C#. It meticulously covers essential concepts, from variables, data types, and control structures to practical software development applications. Beyond just being a badge, this certification wants to verify quality education. Katie Savage emphasized its significance, noting that while no certification can guarantee a job, possessing this in one's portfolio demonstrates dedication and proficiency in C#. Given its comprehensive nature and global accessibility, it's poised to benefit learners worldwide.
Earning the Certification: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those keen on acquiring the certification, the pathway is straightforward:
- Begin by navigating to the Foundational C# Certification path on freeCodeCamp.
- Delve into the training content listed under ‘Courses'.
- Engage with and complete the training modules on Microsoft Learn. For those who've previously finished the training, there's no requirement to revisit.
- Post completion of each course, a comprehension check awaits on freeCodeCamp.
- Earn trophies on Microsoft Learn at the culmination of each course, with clear instructions provided on freeCodeCamp for claiming and submitting these accolades.
- With all training modules done, the final step is the certification exam.
Supplementary Training and Community Engagement
To enhance the learning experience, Microsoft has scheduled six office-hour style streaming sessions from September 20 to October 25, every Wednesday at 2:00 pm UTC. Available on the .NET YouTube channel, these sessions promise insights from expert presenters who will review training content, guide participants through projects, and address queries. In tandem, freeCodeCamp offers a detailed video walkthrough of the certification journey. For those seeking additional support or community engagement, the vibrant freeCodeCamp forum, especially the C# section, is a valuable resource.
Beyond Certification: The C# Challenge
For learners eager to test their skills further, the C# Challenge presents an exciting opportunity The Foundational C# Certification is catering to both novices and seasoned C# professionals. Set to kick off on August 29th, the challenge allows participants to measure their learning trajectory against global peers.
