With Windows Server 2008 out there, what certification path should I.T. students follow?

I ask because I'm currently taking a 70-290 course. I don't want to study 2003 to only be told that cert is irrelevant now. While we're on the subject, what currently is a good cert. path to follow? I'm 35yo, and I know many may say youre never to old, but those certs that have a lot of programming may be my downfall such as Cisco. But I need to get something rollin', to at least put me in a position to learn other things. I was thinking of the MCSE path. Something that at least has a gui I know that these certs aren't easy, but where should I start, being that they say a degree may not be enough. I'm a Network and Communication Management major, with a minor in Network Systems Admin. Should have ociates in about 3 or 4 months.