|
Employment for electronic and computer technicians is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2008. New technologies and increased computer use will continue to stimulate the demand for such workers, and many will find employment in private industry. This program is intended to lead to employment. If you are considering transferring to a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor's degree using the courses from this program, make an appointment with an academic advisor to review your options. Nature of the Work—This program prepares students for a variety of entry-level positions in microcomputer servicing. Graduates of this program should be able to install, maintain, repair, replace, and upgrade PC microcomputer system hardware and software. Hardware packages include IBM PCs and PC clones. Related Job Titles—Computer support specialist, technical support specialist, help desk technician Related Programs—Computer and Local Area Network Technician A.A.S. (63 credit hours) and LAN Technician Certificate (19 credit hours.) Employment Outlook—Employment of computer support specialists is expected to increase by 14 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Job growth will continue to be driven by the continued expansion of the computer system design and related services industry, which is projected to remain one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. economy, despite recent job losses. Growth will not be as great as during the previous decade because of maturing industry and off-shore outsourcing. However, consulting jobs for computer support specialists should continue increase as business seek help managing, upgrading, and customizing ever more complex computer systems. Median annual wages of wage-and-salary computer support specialists were $43,450 in May 2008. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,680 and $55,990. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $26,580, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $70,750. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2010-2011 For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Resource Center, Student Services Center, S202, at (708) 974-5737. www.morainevalley.edu/jrc. |
|
This
career path prepares students for entry-level positions as a data communications
specialist in the information technology profession. Common career titles
include PC support technician, LAN specialist, help desk support specialist, LAN
system administrator, LAN design specialist, LAN engineer, and many others. The
program prepares students for rewarding careers at the forefront of the
information technological revolution. Students will examine the installation,
maintenance, repair, and management of desktop PCs and local area networks.
Students receive hands-on training in network operating systems, user
administration, network security, and LAN switching and bridging design. The
program also helps students prepare for A+, N+, CAN, MCP, and CCNA
certification. Graduates of this program possess a wide range of product
knowledge as well as hands-on experience in hardware and software installation
and support.
