Computer Information Systems Foundations Certificate of Achievement

The Computer Information Systems Foundations Certificate of Achievement is designed for students who want to take their first step toward a career in Information Technology. Students learn the fundamentals of computer hardware, operating systems, networking, security, and programming. No prior knowledge of computers is required. Hands-on and flexible courses teach the knowledge and skills necessary to work in computer technical support and prepare students for industry certification exams. Students who earn this certificate are prepared to take courses that specialize in security, networking, technical support, operating systems, and/or the cloud.

Each year a total of 80 students are expected to enroll with approximately 20 earning the CIS Foundations Certificate of Achievement. With a strong labor market, the program is expected to grow.

Cabrillo College is seeking approval from the Chancellor’s Office for the new Computer Information Systems Foundations Certificate of Achievement in Career Education. This certificate is designed to train students in the fields of Information Technology, Information Security, and Technical Support. The need for information workers has been advocated by local employers spanning many industries and is supported by labor market research (TOP 0708.00). The certificate is aligned with Cabrillo’s mission, master plan, and statewide community college work in Guided Pathways. Approval will benefit regional employers, fulfill the needs of the local community, augment college enrollment, and support non-traditional and underserved minoritized students in a viable career and academic path. This certificate would give our students the knowledge and skills they need to enter the workforce or continue their studies in the field. The goal is for certificate completers to be employed within a year of program completion or to advance to an associate’s degree. The earning potential of a graduate is promising, with a starting salary of $45,000-$52,000/year in jobs such as Network and Systems Administrators. It is critical to provide community college students with educational and professional experience and opportunities necessary to be successful when they continue on to higher degrees or certificates. 

There are 14 required units in computer and information systems along with four elective units for a total of 18 units. 

The Computer Information Systems Foundations Certificate of Achievement is an on-ramp for students who want to start a career in information technology and have no prior experience in the field. There are no similar programs at Cabrillo. All courses are housed in the CIS department with the exception of one elective in the Computer Science department. 

Hartnell College and Gavilan College have delivered Computer Information System programs for several years and both report that our programs would not negatively affect their respective programs. Contacted for approval: Guy Hannah, Associate Dean of Career Technical Education Hartnell College Office 831.710.7886 ghannah@hartnell.edu and Susan Sweeney, Dean of Career Education, Workforce & Partnerships Gavilan College Office: 831-646-4039 ssweeney@gavilan.edu 408-848-4757.