Many IT professionals and students are setting lofty goals for themselves in order to achieve a professional certification and improve their skill sets. This is important because it allows them to take on greater work responsibilities and earn more money. For many, the greatest challenge is determining which IT certifications will be in the greatest demand. Let's take a look at 8 of the hottest certifications.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft recently launched their latest group of new certifications, creating a big surge in popularity. Getting a MCSA certification gives IT professionals a solid foundation in general information technology and prepares them for higher level Microsoft certifications.

2. MCSE: Private Cloud

Anyone who has ventured into an IT department recently knows "cloud" is the big buzzword of the day. This particular Microsoft certification was redesigned with the cloud in mind. In just eight months, the Private Cloud certification became as popular as the rival CCP cloud and Comp TIA certifications. The growth of cloud computing spiked demand for professionals with the ability to create private cloud computing solutions. The MCITP program will be discontinued in 2014, and those individuals will be encouraged to become MCSE's.

3. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project management is a basic skill that changes with new technologies and never becomes obsolete. A solid grasp of project management helps IT professionals budget, plan, reduce costs, and manage their time. Since so many companies are reducing staff and looking for greater efficiency, this skill set helps IT professionals be more effective and broaden their resumes.

4. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

The design of virtual computing platforms, or virtualization, improves scalability and lowers the costs of infrastructure in computing environments that are hardware-intensive. The virtualization industry is still in its infancy, and VMware leads in both virtual certifications and virtualization software.

5. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

An organization must guard its systems, networks, and data. For this reason, there is a strong demand for information security architects. A growing trend towards data storage in cloud systems means that security experts play an increasingly important role in maintaining the security of these systems. The CISSP certification is very popular, respected, and garners a very high salary.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

This certification is part of the new group of cloud credentials launched by Microsoft in 2012. The popularity of this certification shows that there is a huge demand for software developers in today's workplace. Organizations are seeking to reduce their costs and increase efficiency to get a competitive edge. Designing and optimizing software solutions is one of the most effective ways of meeting this objective.

7. Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)

The MCDBA certification is another in-demand certification, although it only covers versions of SQL through 2000. Those with this certification should also go after the new MCITP: Database Administrator or gain MCSE: Business Intelligence credentials to compliment the certification.

8. Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)

Most people recognize Cisco's routing and switching certificates, but their starting design certification has rapidly emerged as one of the most highly paid and marketable network credentials. Those with the CCDA certification have the skill set needed for designing and optimizing data center, security, wireless computer networks, and security for smaller businesses.