"If you want to get some certs you need to think where you are going with your career. Right of the bat I can tell you not do the A+ cert, it is a really basic cert. Just check websites or go to your local bookstore, order a coffee and browse a book…"

"You need to decide on what course to take. If you want to stick with programming, get certs in those or learn more about the languages you work with or learn others. Programming and Networking are two different sides to the IT coin."

"I would study for the CISSP as it will only help you in your current position.  As for brushing up I would just read some books and talk to people.  Get to know the basics of the hardware and it's capabilities.  Same for the…"

"Good point, however, do you think it would be worthwhile to take the lower lever courses in order to gain a better understanding of their work? My current position is software development and my education is mostly theory so I have little/no…"

"My thought is that if you want to manage then take courses managers take.  Program Management (PgMP) once you've completed PMP and CCISP.  If you have enough credits in accounting and finance get your CPA.  Also consider…"

"Network+ is pointless if you are doing the CCNA. CCNA covers Network+ and then some. A+ is good to have for basic stuff, I read the material but never took the test. Security+ is your call. Cisco, VMware and Microsoft are the three big certs to get.…"

"Thanks for bringing this thread back to life. For now I have decided to focus on certifications, as my employer will not pay tuition until I have been employed for 1 full year. I plan to get A+ (test Saturday) Network+, Security+ then CCNA.…"

"If your employer will pay for it get your PMP and PgMP.  I wouldn't recommend going for your DBA unless you intend to teach.  Use the time to network, learn the business side (budgets, finance, etc.); you'd be surprised to find…"

"If they are paying for it - sure. But consider an MS in something or go for professional certifications like from Microsoft and VMware or some other technology you work with. Technical know how is very important. Need to understand what is going on…"

"Hi, Most of the advise on the thread is good but I disagree with some. I will recommend you do the DBA, specially been an AACSB accredited and well known one. I was in a situation similar to yours. While at the U.S. Coast Guard where I studied and…"

"Thanks for the advice, I think you nailed it by suggesting a specific focus... now I just have to choose one."

"I'd definitely advise against this.  You already have quiet a bit of education and seem to be rather young.  Like you mentioned, I'd work on some certifications and experience at this point.   I have a CCNA, so…"

"If your ultimate goal is top management, yes, spend your time learning management and business. Learn some accounting and finance so you can sell the IT goals to the entire company in terms of monetary costs and gains.   I've been in IT…"

"Good plan, thanks!"

"Look up the ones you can find, and do a jobs search in your area to see how many seek them.  Focus also nationally on your industry.  I found that regions seek different certs.  "

"Any suggestion on which one(s): CCNA, Sec+, CISA "