Computer Systems and Information Technology (CSIT) Y100200
Classes
Course Info
Length:
10 Months (900 Clock Hours)
Schedule:
Monday 8 am-1 pm; Tuesday-Friday 8 am-2 pm
(Summer schedule) Monday- Thursday 8 am - 2:45 pm
Computer Systems and Information Technology Standards:
Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) scores: 9 in Reading, Language and 10 in Math OR meet TABE exemption (refer to Admissions and Testing)
COURSE OVERVIEW
Program Description
The Computer Systems and Information Technology program prepares students for employment at the entry level as Computer Technicians, Network Technicians, and Network Administrators. Students are prepared to take the A+ Computer Repair Certification, Network+ Certification, the Windows 7 Microsoft vendor Certification, Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT), and the Cisco certified Network Associate (CCNA) vendor exam.
The CompTIA A+ and Network+ exams are vendor-neutral certifications covering all of the major operating systems and networking equipment found in most networks used by industry.
Book and Supply Information
For the most current list of books and supplies, please contact the Student Services Office, Financial Aid Office or our Bookstore.
Employment/Career Opportunities
This program prepares students for employment at the entry level as Computer Technicians, Network Technicians, and Network Administrators.
Note: A history of felony convictions, substance abuse, or a poor driving record may adversely affect your ability to gain employment in this field.
Salaries
Salaries for graduates range from $14.55-$26.62 per hour (repair); $17.05-$34.83 per hour (networking). Source: Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, Labor Market Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Networking?
A network is a communication system that allows users to access resources on other computers and exchange messages with other users. It allows users to share resources on their own systems with other network users and to access information on centrally located systems that are located at remote sites.
Is there a lot of technical reading in this program?
Yes, there is a lot of reading from technical manuals. The nature of the job requires it, both in class and as an ongoing demand of the job in order to keep up with changing technology.
Do students need familiarity with computers to start this program?
Students should possess a working knowledge of the Windows environment and basic keyboarding skills before beginning this program.
Are there other courses students need to take to complete the Networking requirements?
There are no other courses needed to be employed in this field. Individual companies may require training on specific areas such as Cisco products.
What is the importance of the A+ Certification?
The A+ certification is industry's measurement of technicians' skill and knowledge of repairing computers. Individuals without the A+ Certification usually have difficulty getting a job in this field.
What are the local job opportunities in this field?
There are over 500 businesses in the local area that hire people in the computer repair and networking field. According to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Network Systems and Data Communication Analysts is the 2nd fastest growing occupation in the state of Florida.
What is the salary range for a graduate of this program?
The starting salary range for computer repair techs is $11.64-$20.71 per hour and $17.39-$34.56 per hour for networking techs. Graduates who have earned their CCENT/CCNA can expect to earn $50-60,000 in the networking field within the first five years.
Where have graduates found employment?
Graduates have been employed by MC Gill Engineering, Software Spectrum, Bisk Publishing, Rosetta Technologies, ICT Worldwide, Inc., Verizon Communications, Lockheed Martin, Norell Communications, Aerial Communications, Computer Generated Soutions, Dynamic Business Systems, IKON, Comtech, and Xerox.
Is job placement available upon graduation?
Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations.
Job Description Information
Job Title: PC TECHNICIAN
(A+ Certification preparation is completed in the first term)
Concentration: Network Devices
Current Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
Maintains, analyzes, troubleshoots, and repairs computer systems, hardware and computer peripherals. Documents, maintains, upgrades or replaces hardware and software systems. Assists in implementing custom configurations. Works under direct supervision. Reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Intermediate Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level duties as well as:
Relies on limited experience and judgement to plan and accomplish goals. Custom configurations are designed. Works under general supervision. Typically reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Senior Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level and Intermediate Level duties as well as:
Relies on experience and judgement to plan and accomplish goals. Creativity is required. Custom configurations are frequently designed. Typically reports to a manager.
Function:
- Install and Upgrade PC and Network Device Hardware
- Maintain a Safe and Secure Work Environment
- Manage, Administer and Secure Local Area Networks
- Optimize Performance of LAN and Network Devices
- Provide Customer Service and Support
- Troubleshoot Problems
Alternate job titles associated with the critical work functions and skills displayed include:
- Assembly Specialist
- Assembly Technician
- Configuration Specialist
- Configuration Technician
- Field Support Technician
- Hardware & Software Specialist
- Hardware & Software Technician
- PC Engineer
- PC Maintenance Specialist
- PC Maintenance Technician
- PC Specialist
- Service Center Technician
Job Title: NETWORK SUPPORT TECHNICIAN
(Network+ Certification preparation is completed in the third Grading Period)
Concentration: Network Infrastructure
Current Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
Monitors and maintains the company’s network systems. Identifies, documents, and implements solutions to problems. Performs network back-ups and measures performance. Works under direct supervision. Typically reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Intermediate Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level duties as well as:
Troubleshoots network systems when necessary and makes improvements to the network. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. Typically reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Senior Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level and Intermediate Level duties as well as:
Performs a variety of complicated tasks. Typically reports to a manager.
Function:
- Design Local Area Networks
- Implement and Monitor Network Security
- Install and Expand New Facilities
- Optimize and Maintain Network Software and Hardware
- Perform Network Infrastructure Troubleshooting
Alternate job titles associated with the critical work functions and skills displayed include:
- LAN Specialist
- LAN Technician
- Network Support Engineer
- Network Support Specialist
- WAN Specialist
- WAN Technician
Job Title: NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR
(CCENT & CCNA Certification preparations are completed in
Grading Periods 4-7)
Concentration: Network Infrastructure
Current Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
Installs, configures and maintains the network. Builds networks and maintains external and internal web presence. Administers the network. Designs and supports server systems and supporting software. Evaluates changes to current and future network requirements to meet needs. May implement the overall strategic goals of the network system. Works under direct supervision. Reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Intermediate Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level duties as well as:
May develop, plan, and implement the overall strategic goals of the nwtwork system. Works under limited supervision. Typically reports to a manager.
Current Job Level: Senior Level
Job Description includes all the Entry Level and Intermediate Level duties as well as:
Responsible for designing and supporting server systems and supporting software. Performs system back-ups on internal and external web network servers. Typically reports to a manager.
Function:
- Design Local Area Networks
- Implement and Monitor Network Security
- Install and Expand New Facilities
- Optimize and Maintain Network Software and Hardware
- Perform Network Infrastructure Troubleshooting
Alternate job titles associated with the critical work functions and skills displayed include:
- ICT Administrator
- Network Analyst and Administrator
- Network Architect
- Security Administrator
- Security Architect
- Security Consultant
- Security Developer
- Security Engineer
- Security Specialist
- Systems Administrator
Information Source: The Computing Technology Industry Association, Inc.
For questions regarding the program please contact: donna.matassini@sdhc.k12.fl.us