God I spent an hour trying to untangle the mess that are the new MCPD/MCTS certification tests (replacing the retired MCSD).

Is it worth going straight for Framework 3.5 and Visual Studio 8.0?

I have doubts about Windows Client Apps in Framework 3.5, as most Windows PC's don't have anything above Framework 2.0.

Why hasn't Microsoft pushed out Framework 3.5 yet as a required update for all XP+ OS?

How come Framework 2.0 co-exists with Framework 3.5 as a seperate installation instead of being replaced by it? This seems like a huge mess.

Anyway, I've mapped out what I need for Client side and ASP.net certifications, tell me what you guys think, or if this arduous path is even worth it (or just a money drainer).

(MCTS) Needed for all:
1) Exam 70-536: TS: Microsoft .NET Framework – Application Development Foundation

MCPD: Windows Developer 3.5
(MCTS)
2) Exam 70-505: TS: Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5, Windows Forms Application Development
(PRO)
3) Exam 70-563: PRO: Designing and Developing Windows Applications Using Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5

MCPD: ASP.NET Developer 3.5
(MCTS)
4) Exam 70-562: TS: Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5, ASP.NET Application Development
(PRO)
5) Exam 70-564: PRO: Designing and Developing ASP.NET Applications Using Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5

MCPD: Enterprise Application Developer 3.5
6) Exam 70-561: TS: Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5, ADO.NET Application Development
7) Exam 70-503: TS: Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 – Windows Communication Foundation Application Development
8) (Not available yet) Exam 70-565: PRO: Designing and Developing Enterprise Applications Using Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5