By CERT do you mean Computer Emergency Readiness Team www.us-cert.gov. Associate with the Department of Homeland Security

Or, perhaps you’re talking about the Carnegie Mellon program.

I’m not aware of a CERT certification. Carnegie Mellon is a very well respected school if you can get in. Either way the best teacher is experience.

My certifications are about 1.5 years old. Post a reply if you want any info regarding them.

Good Luck.

Jim
(MCDBA, MCSE, CCNA)