Information Technology
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Information Technology – Systems Administrator will train and educate students, using industry-based skill standards. Students will learn to design, implement and support network technology on various operating systems. Additionally, students will receive the training necessary to take some Microsoft and Linux certification exams.
Career Opportunities
Business computer technology is a rapidly developing and expanding field. Computer-support positions are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the next decade. Technical support and sales positions generally require technical ability as well as good interpersonal and communication skills. The rapid rate of growth and change in the field requires a commitment to stay current with new technologies. Graduates may find employment in public and private organizations, educational and research facilities, industrial and commercial businesses, and with the makers, vendors, and distributors of hardware and software. The demand for network engineers is expected to be very strong during the next several years.
Potential Positions & Earnings
Potential positions include Microsoft Certified Professionals, network engineers, technical coordinators, microcomputer support staff, help desk assistants, network coordinators, technical salespeople, computer programmers, and computer consultants. Annual entry-level salaries range from $18,000 to $26,000, depending on location and position. With experience, continuing education, or advanced degrees, network engineers and others can earn $35,000 to $55,000 or more annually.
Special Program Features
This program offers multiple levels of student success: a one-year certificate, a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree, one or more Microsoft Certified Professional certifications, and full Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification.
This program prepares students for a life-long learning process that accommodates rapidly changing technologies. Several of the first-year, program-specific courses are offered at the Port Townsend and Forks extension sites. The program also offers courses that can be articulated through the Tech Prep Program with one or more area high schools.
Program Goals
- Prepare students for Operating System certifications, where applicable.
- Prepare students for job opportunities as Information Technology professionals.
Program Requirements
Students entering this program should have completed CAT 100 or have equivalent experience and possess college-level skills in English and math before registering for the English and Applied Math courses required in this program. Students may need to complete prerequisite coursework prior to enrollment. The ASSET test and/or previous coursework will help determine placement level.
Students seeking outside certification only (i.e., not the one-year certificate or two-year degree) must have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience: Windows 95/98, CSC 105 or CAT 106, and CAT 162.
Course requirements are listed in the graduation checklist (see link above at right), along with the typical quarter/year in which the course is completed. Actual student schedules may vary.
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CONTACT
For Program inquiries contact the program advisor(s):
Steve Snyder
(360) 417-6245
ssnyder@pencol.edu
ADDITIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION
IT Administrator - Business AAS F2009 (pdf)
IT Administrator - Business AAS-T F2009 (pdf)
IT CISCO Network Specialist Certificate F2009 (pdf)
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