Question

How to get SAP certified

SAP, ABAP, SAP APO, Basis, Development, Financials, FI, CO, TR, ED, Industry solutions, IS-B, IS-H, IS-Ill, IS-P, IS-Retail, IS-T, RIVA, Windows, MySAP, NetWeaver, SAP careers, SEM, Upgrades / implementations

Hi, I want a career in SAP. I have an Associates degree in Graphic Design but work as tech support for a telcom company for 6 years. I dont want to pursue networking or programming, but something geared more towards business. My question is, should I get a SAP certification or should I pursue a bachelors or masters in SAP. Also, where should I start since I have no experience.

You should definitely get a Bachelor's degree, preferably in Business and/or Information Management. SAP Certification doesn't come easy, as it requires extensive knowledge in a particular area or module in SAP (i.e. MM, SD, IS-Retail etc.), plus in my opinion it's a myth that an SAP Certification guarantees the Consultant to be an expert in his area of expertise. I've worked with IS Retail for eight years, and would consider myself an expert, but I never got certified. A colleague, who recently was certified in IS-Retail, still requires extensive explaining in how IS Retail specifics work. In any case, good luck, and don't give up in pursuing your dream. I never went to a University and without a degree it was virtually impossible to get into SAP Consulting. But thanks to my patience, perceverence and continously focussing on my ultimate goal during years of sacrifice and hardship I would never be where I am today!