Troubleshooting and maintaining computers—it’s become a universal part of our workplaces. And businesses are always looking for trained IT support: the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 10% growth in computer support specialist jobs through 2026. That’s why our information technology diploma program equips you with everything you need to be Day 1 Ready and compete in this growing field—all in less than 10 months*. Day 1 ready means having the skills, knowledge, and confidence to perform on Day 1 of a new IT job.
Our instructors are real professionals who provide hands-on training and mentorship. And we mean hands on: students build their own computers from scratch, and practice equipment repair. They’re challenged to solve bugs, just like they’d encounter in the workplace, and coached on workplace skills, so they can deliver the highest levels of service in a variety of organizations, from offices to call center support to helpdesks.
This diploma in information technology goes beyond basic instruction. Our personalized career services focus on all aspects of career readiness, from finding the right jobs to resume building to interview prep—help and support you won’t get with most it diplomas. We are always in touch with potential employers and may be able to help connect you to real opportunities. If you are ready for the challenge, we’ll work with you to get you Day 1 Ready.
*Based on successful, full-time enrollment
Graduates will leave the program with the hands-on experience, customer service skills, and A+ & Net+ certifications expected by today’s employers.
Potential Job Titles: Help Desk Analyst, Customer Support Representative, Technical Support Specialist, Field Service Technician.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid rate, companies need IT professionals to maintain their current IT networks and incorporate new advancements into their operations without interruption. IT professionals must have the creativity and technical skills to develop customized technical solutions which can enhance performance and productivity. An IT professional has to be able to recognize security threats and react to them appropriately.
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Computer Hardware Essentials | 6.5 |
| Computer Software Essentials * | 6.5 |
| Windows Fundamentals | 6.5 |
| Introduction to Networking * | 6.5 |
In Computer Hardware Essentials, the student will develop a working knowledge of the parts of a computer utilizing a hands-on approach to the material. The course covers computer components, installation, configurations, maintenance and troubleshooting of computer hardware, peripherals, and laptops. Computer safety will also be discussed. Upon the completion of IT100 and IT101, students will be eligible to sit for and obtain CompTIA A+ certification.
In Computer Software Essentials, the student will learn the fundamental concepts and gain the hands-on, real world experience necessary to support software, operating systems, basic security, and virtual aspects of computer maintenance and repair. The student will also learn and apply proper troubleshooting theory and procedure. Upon the completion of IT101 and IT100, students will be eligible to sit for and obtain CompTIA A+ certification.
In Windows Fundamentals, the student will be instructed in the key features of Windows operating systems. The goal is for each student to develop a working knowledge of management of a Windows OS, and its file systems, directories, and interfaces. Troubleshooting, customization, deployment, monitoring, and task management will also be covered.
Introduction to Networking course is based on the CompTIA Network+ and portions of the Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA) certification exams. The course provides an introduction to networking and the Internet using tools and hardware commonly found in home and small business environments. The goal is to teach fundamental concepts and provide the hands- on, real world experience necessary to understand and support basic network infrastructure and devices. Additionally, the course covers all physical aspects of installing network system components and cabling. Upon the completion of IT103 AND IT105 the student will be eligible to sit for and obtain CompTIA Network+ certification.
In Network Security Fundamentals, the student will learn about security components, protocols, common vulnerabilities and defenses, and virtualization, as well as topics of increasing importance in the industry as a whole. Data and host security, as well as wireless security components will be covered. The student will plan, administer, and evaluate workstation and network security as a part of the course.
Network Analysis and Design expands upon the concepts presented in IT103 by delving into more advanced networking topics including routing and remote access, addressing, and security. Network monitoring and troubleshooting are taught in context. This course prepares the student with the skills necessary to support a small to medium sized business or ISP. By the end of the course, the student will be prepared to sit for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam. Elements of this course map to portions of the Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA) certification.
In the Server Administration course the student will learn configuring, managing, and troubleshooting networking features and services in a Windows Server environment. The goal of the course is for the student to gain knowledge of server networking, Domain Name Systems, Active Directory, and other services associated with Windows Server network infrastructure. By the end of the course, the student will complete a server virtualization setup.
The Externship will be a culminating activity that provides a way for the student to demonstrate the working knowledge and skills they acquired during their academic experience with Vista College along with the research, communication and technology skills relevant to today’s work environment. Students nearing the end of their program will complete a reflective portfolio, a resume that integrates and demonstrates what they have learned, and 180 hours of externship.
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