Computer Support Specialist

The Computer Support Specialist program is designed to help students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to work in computer technical support positions and prepare for industry certification exams. Students will be able to provide technical support, troubleshooting, training and documentation to internal and external customers. The program also builds foundational knowledge of cybersecurity and networking. In addition, the courses help prepare students for entry-level positions and industry certification exams

Estimated at least 20 certificate completers with a maximum class size of 35.

As technology drives the 21st-century business market, many companies are bringing their e-commerce and IT divisions in-house. Computer Support Specialists are necessary personnel in every industry, from large IT firms to non-profits.  

Certified Computer Support Specialists can find positions in tech and customer support, content management, web making, network analysis, IT support and repair as well as many other positions

As a Computer Support Specialist, graduates will be able to: 

• Install, configure and maintain basic computer systems, including hardware, peripherals, and commonly used application software and operating systems. 

• Diagnose, troubleshoot and resolve hardware, software or other network and system problems, and replace components if necessary. 

• Design, install, configure and maintain local area networks. 

• Perform backups and disaster recovery. 

• Be prepared to enter the workforce or continue your education in a CTE-ITC Pathway 

Career Options: 

• Database administrator 

• IT specialist 

• Tech support specialist 

• Systems analyst 

• Network engineer 

• Help desk technician 

• IT support specialist 

• IT technician 

• Computer user specialist 

• IT assistant 

•  

Career Preparation: 

The Computer Support Specialist Certificate prepares the student for several industry certifications, in addition to local and virtual jobs.  It also prepares students to continue their education in education by giving them prerequisite knowledge for further study in many in-demand ICT fields.  

Program Highlights: 

• Lassen Community College offers its Computer Support Specialist Certificate as an entirely online program of study.  No physical classroom involvement is required. 

• The Computer Support Specialist Certificate can be completed in just two semesters; ideally fall, and then spring semesters. 

• The Computer Support Specialist Certificate sets completers up for a wide variety of next steps.  Those wishing to go directly to the workforce will have knowledge and skills to complete several industry recognized certification exams, like CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security +.  The program focuses on top foundational skill for many entry-level type jobs.  For those students wishing to further their education in IT, the Computer Support Specialist certificate starts with essential skills for further study in IT Project Management, Networking Administration and/or Cybersecurity.  

This program is also designed to give students foundational skills and knowledge in growing ICT pathways, including Cybersecurity and IT Project Management and Administration. 

Computer Information Systems (CIS) as a field focuses on practical applications of technology to support organizations. The program includes a range of subjects, including end-user Information Technology (IT) systems, IT systems analysis and design, cybersecurity and networking foundations. 

Potential careers for CIS graduates include IT consultant, application developer, IT support specialist, IT project manager, Cybersecurity/Information Security Analysts, Cybersecurity Professionals 

This program also offers an entry point for those interested in developing a career in Cybersecurity.  

  .