Computer Technician
Certificate
Curriculum code 1418
Course Requirements

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.

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 specialist is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through 2014, as organizations continue to adopt and integrate increasingly sophisticated technology. 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. Median annual earnings of computer support specialists were $40,430 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $30,980 and $53,010. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $24,190, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $69,110. According to Robert Half International, starting salaries in 2005 ranged from $26,250 to $53,750 for help desk and technical support staff, and from $44,500 to $63,250 for more senior technical support specialists. Moraine Valley’s Job and Internship report, dated June 2006, posted positions with an average salary of $13.75/hour or $28,600/year.

For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Resource Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, at (708) 974-5737, www.morainevalley.edu/jrc.