The Career
Network and computer systems administrators design, install and support an organization’s computer systems. They are responsible for local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), network segments and Internet and intranet systems.
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance and advice to customers and other users. This occupational group includes technical support specialists and help-desk technicians.
Professional Traits
Those pursuing a career in this field should:
- Have strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Be able to communicate effectively on paper, via e-mail, over the phone or in person
- Have strong writing skills, which are useful in preparing manuals for employees and customers
Employment and Salary Information
Generally, the career outlook for computer support specialists is positive. By 2020, the number of jobs is projected to increase by 18%, an average growth rate when compared with all other U.S. careers.
Nationwide, median annual earnings of computer support specialists were $46,260 in May 2010. Salaries for these professionals ranged from less than $28,300 (lowest 10 percent) to more than $76,970 (highest 10 percent).
The five industries employing the most computer support specialists in 2010 were:
- Computer systems design and related services
- Educational services (state, local, and private)
- Information
- Finance and insurance
- Wholesale trade
* Data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Program
The ECC Computer Information Systems program focuses on a wide range of fundamentals and product-specific technology such as database and application software. In addition, because the college is a Cisco Networking Academy, it is able to offer specially-designed curriculum for training technicians on this equipment. Classes in networking technology, operating systems and client-server development tools ready students for employment in several areas of the computer technology and information field. Furthermore, upon completion of the coursework, students are prepared to take the:
- CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) exam
- Network+ exam (CompTIA’s certification)
Assuming appropriate placement scores, a full-time student (who begins in the fall) can complete either the CIS Certificate of Achievement or the Network Technician Certificate of Achievement in 18 months.
ECC also offers both an associate of applied science (work-ready degree) and associate of arts (transfer degree) in computer information systems.
Admissions Requirements
Students must have completed:
- High school diploma or the equivalent (documentation sent to the registration office)
- Application for admission
- A placement test as specified by the college (some coursework has minimum placement results)
Additional Program Information*
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC)
15-1151.00, 15-1152.00
Tuition and Required Fees
$3,196 (In-Distict)
$4,250 (Out-of-District)
Books and Supplies
$1,516.30
Other Fees and Expenses
$80
* Applies to both certificate tracks.
Accreditation
East Central College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
30 N. LaSalle St., Suite 2400
Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504
800-621-7440
Contacts
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