[luau] Going Rate for certs:

[karibdis]

Hey all,

      I have been doing some checking around town (oahu) in the last 
couple of days for *nix / linux / RH certs, and have found that the 
going rate is around $1000 - $1500 just for the class, not even 
including the test!  I am aware that most of these classes are business 
oriented, and a business would of course be able to put out these resources.
      However, my situation is entirely different.  I was just wondering 
if anybody knew of any cheaper alternatives that someone in my position 
( I won't bore you all with the details, suffice it to say "financially, 
as well as spelling bee :) challenged",  and financial aid is a long 
shot at best, could turn to.  Rest assured, my pursuit of knowledge will 
not be limited by a piece of paper, but that piece of paper often helps 
a great deal.

                                                Thanks,
                                                        karibdis
                                                     Scott Scheurman

Ps- (linuxdan from Comp USA:

      $1,595 ea. for:
                linux plus
                Unix fundamentals lvl 1/2
                Unix Sys Admin
                Unix utilities & tools

What type of cert would you get from these classes, how could you apply 
it to "real world" practice,  And please justify spending $1600 for a 
piece of paper. ( Not trying to put you on the spot or anything, but I 
would value your input and response, thanks. )