Originally posted by Kengkaj Sathianpantarit:
Please search about MCA (Microsoft Certified Architect) program.
MCA is far more difficult than SCEA.
I think it goes beyond being "more difficult" - it's more expensive, more involved... I was going to say that I don't know that there's an MCA option for software developers, but a look at their site shows an option for 'solution program' that might well encompass software development. As it involves an interview and presentation, I'd have to say that one ought better know their stuff well - it isn't something that would involve a simple fix and resubmission. Their requirements are higher, comparatively, as well.
I also don't know what the acceptance is among employers, given how new it is. As of January, there's only 66 'solution program' architects, and a grand total of fewer than 200 across all their architect programs.
Another option might well be the Open Group's
IT Architect Certification. I haven't looked too deeply into this (I think my SCEA is sufficient for now

), but there's information at the site I linked in.