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Diploma of Technology
Computer Support Specialist
Duration: 6 semesters plus 8 week work term
Program Description
The Computer Support Specialist program provides students with training that will allow them to work effectively and competitively in the Information Technology field. Courses offered in this program will give graduates working experience with the Windows Server networking environment, Microsoft Exchange Mail systems, Microsoft Office applications, Microsoft Visio diagram management, customer and business management skills, information gathering, and information technology. Students will be provided with training on the installation and administration of Microsoft Window Server networks and support infrastructures. Students will also be introduced to basic programming skills and be given a full introductory course in Microsoft Visual Basic.
In addition, this program includes courses that can allow students to seek certification in a variety of technology areas including certifications from CompTIA and Microsoft. These certifications include: A+ - Entry Level Service Technician, Network+ - Network Support and Administration, Security+ - Computer and Information Security, Microsoft Certified Professional, and Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator. These certifications are considered global standards in today's information technology industry. Certification examinations are administered independently from any school or campus.
Program Courses
CONA Computer Navigation
ISTE Introduction to Service Technician
HTXM Programming in HTML/XML
BUDE Business Development
TCSU Technical Communication and Support
EOMA Electronic Office Management
WP02 Word Processing Comprehensive
SP02 Spreadsheets Comprehensive
DM02 Database Management Comprehensive
FTIT Future Trends in IT
DICD Diagram Creation and Design
PSLO Programming Structure and Logic
PRVB Programming in Visual Basic
SADE Systems Analysis and Design
APTR Application Troubleshooting
NCIN Network Configuration and Installation - Network+
STA+ Advanced Service Technician - A+
MMWS Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server
ISVB Introduction to Scripting with VB Script
PRMA Project Management
SCAS+ Security, Configuration and Analysis- Security+
IMWN Implementing, Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server Network
ICAW Installing, Configuring and Administering Microsoft Windows Client Operating System
IMES Implementing and Managing Server Slide E-Mail Messaging and Collaboration Software
Work Term
Entrance Requirements
High School Graduates or Equivalent
High School Graduates or equivalent are eligible for admission to the Computer Support Specialist program. Students must complete an application form and provide a copy of High School, Adult Basic Education, or G.E.D. results. Under certain circumstances students who do not meet the formal High School requirements may be accepted upon the recommendation of a High School Principal or Guidance Counsellor. Please contact an Admissions Officer for further details.
Mature Students
Mature students are eligible for admission to the Computer Support Specialist program. These students must be 19 years of age or older, complete an application form, provide a copy of most recent marks, and write a Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT) as arranged by Academy Canada.
Specific Entrance Requirements
In order to be eligible for and to complete the networking component (MCSA) of the program (offered during the final thirty weeks), students must have successfully completed high school academic mathematics or completed Academy Canada’s academic mathematics course that will be offered separately and in addition to the other courses in the program.
Employment Opportunities
Upon successful completion of the Computer Support Specialist program, graduates will be qualified to work in various sectors of the microcomputer industry. Our society has become increasingly dependent upon qualified computers and with this dependence comes a reliance on support staff to keep systems up and running. Computer Support Specialist graduates can provide technical assistance, support, and advice in the form of in-person assistance or help-desk support. As a troubleshooter, graduates can interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and network infrastructures. In addition to running diagnostic programs, graduates may find themselves creating training materials, which can be used to further enhance technical support. Opportunities for graduate employment can be found in both the private and public sectors. Self employment opportunities may also exist.
Certification
Certification is a means by which external, reputable organizations assess an individual or a company, based on a set of criteria, to determine if that individual or company is capable of doing what they claim they can do. For the individual it provides four basic advantages: credibility, mobility, professional development, and possibly increased employment opportunities.
- Credibility is achieved as few employers have good knowledge of the various programs and institutions that provide training in information technology. Recognition from a recognized group that you have particular skills then gives you confidence in your ability.
- Mobility is achieved as movement across international boarders is eased if an individual carries a professional designation. If you do not have a professional designation, many countries will not allow you to work in their country for fear that employment is being taken away from their citizens.
- Professional development is promoted as many certification programs require a certain level of experience and training thus encouraging individuals to further develop their skills. As well, to maintain certification, efforts must be taken by the individual to ensure skills are up-to-date.
- Increased employment opportunities are arising as more organizations are requiring certification when hiring for particular positions. This trend will likely continue.
A+ Certification is a testing program sponsored by the Computer Technology Industry Association (Comp TIA) that certifies the competency of entry-level service technicians in the computer industry. Any entry-level computer service professional who wants this credential can take the A+ examination. The A+ Certification is globally recognized as proof of a person’s technical support abilities.
Network+ Certification is a testing program sponsored by the Computer Technology Industry Association (Comp TIA) that certifies the competency of entry-level network technicians in the computer industry. Any entry-level computer service professional who wants this credential can take the Network+ examination. The Network+ Certification is globally recognized as proof of a person's ability to implement and maintain network infrastructures.
Security+ Certification is a testing program sponsored by the Computer Technology Industry association (Comp TIA) that certifies the competency of entry-level security experts in the computer industry. Any entry-level computer service professional who wants this credential can take the Security+ examination. In today's technological world, security expertise is in growing demand. The Security+ Certification is a highly regarded standard among computer security experts.
MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator) certification is for professionals who implement, manage, and troubleshoot existing network and system environments. Any entry-level computer service professional who wants this credential can take the MCSA examination. This certification will expand career opportunities for managing and maintaining Microsoft Windows network environments.
A+, Security+, Network+, and MCSA certification examinations are administered independently from any school or campus. It is the student's responsibility to prepare for and register for these examinations. Academy Canada will ensure that all identified objectives are taught but neither guarantees nor implies that students will be successful in examinations.
Students have the option of completing the Microcomputer Applications certificate program. Also, with a microcomputer applications or equivalent background, students can complete the Network Administration certificate program.
For further information, please contact an Admissions Officer at 1-800-561-8000.
Program start dates are subject to sufficient enrollment.
Academy Canada reserves the right to modify any programs, courses, topics, objectives, etc.
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