a short explanation: the LPI certificates are about Linux administration and start at a basic level. because the LPI is no commercial institution you don´t have to take expensive courses, you only have to pay for the exams (about 100 bucks), on bigger Linux conventions the exams are even offered for free. the certificates are well respected worldwide and so it´s a good opportunity to invest in the future....
check here for all info:
http://www.lpi.org
