Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
Today’s world requires the use of computer software such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access as well as knowledge of the Internet. Computer software application skills are expected and required in today’s job market plus skills such as formatting and editing documents, managing a project, presenting a slide show, and creating a database of music are valuable on a personal level.
A variety of CAT classes are offered each quarter:
The Peninsula College’s Computer Applications Technology (CAT) department provides training in software applications from basic skills to the expert level, depending on your level of need. If you wish to earn a certificate or degree, there are a number of choices: an Application Fundamentals Certificate [20 credits], a Short-term CAT certificate [14 Credits], a Computer Applications Technology Certificate [45 credits], a Computer Applications Technology AAS degree [90 credits], a Computer and Web Applications AAS degree [90 credits], and a Computer Applications Technology AAS-T degree [90 credits].
The skills taught in this program are the most frequently requested competencies sought by employers throughout all industries.
Career Opportunities
Positions for persons using computer applications are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the next decade. Sales positions generally require software knowledge 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 computer applications technicians is expected to be very strong during the next several years.
Potential Positions & Earnings
Position titles are infinite. Since most businesses now use computers for a variety of tasks, virtually all position categories are represented in potential jobs, from clerical to technical and managerial. Average entry-level annual salaries range from $15,000 to $21,000, depending on location and position.
Special Program Features
The Computer Applications Technology AAS degree provides the training for those who wish to become MOS certified while the AAS–T degree option may improve the transferability of the AAS degree to some four year colleges.
You have the option of taking some classes either within a classroom setting (usually with Web enhancement) or as online classes for those that are home or work bound and several of the first-year program courses are offered at the Port Townsend and Forks branches.
Program Goals
Students in this program will learn how to use Windows to access a variety of software; use drop-down menus and icons in several software programs; use spreadsheet software to solve mathematical/quantitative problems; use word processing software to format and edit documents; use database software to create, manage, organize, and store related sets of information, and how to integrate software programs to solve complex problems.
Program Requirements
Course requirements are listed in the graduation checklist (see link, above right) along with the typical quarter/year in which the course is completed. The “Typical Student Schedule” is based on entering a program during the fall quarter. However, actual student schedules may vary since a student may start during any quarter. In addition, a few courses have prerequisites; actual completion time may be longer than what is indicated.
Students should have basic keyboarding skills with accuracy at a minimum of 30 wpm. (Keyboarding classes are offered for improvement of keyboarding skills.) College-level skills in English and math (eligibility for courses numbered 100 or higher) are required before registering for the English, math, or applied math courses. The ASSET or COMPASS test will help determine placement level if not known.
Back To Main Programs list
|
 |
CONTACT
For Program inquiries contact the program advisor(s):
Eduardo Jaramillo
ejaramillo@pencol.edu
ADDITIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION
CAT Computer Applications AAS F2009 (pdf)
CAT Computer Applications AAS-T F2009 (pdf)
CAT Computer Applications Certificate F2009 (pdf)
Short Term CAT Computer Applications I Certificate 09-10 (pdf)
Short Term CAT Computer Application Fundamentals Certificate 09-10 (pdf)
Get Adobe Acrobat Reader™ (for PDFs)
Get Microsoft Office file viewers
|
|