Computer Systems Technology

Overview

Computer Systems Technology is a two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree program designed to educate the student in the areas of personal computer hardware and software; data communications; and computer network hardware, software, and management. Students receive a solid foundation in the functional components and operating systems of modern computers, and gain experience in configuring, maintaining and upgrading a variety of systems.

Communications between computers has become important in today’s world and the curriculum presents the fundamental concepts necessary to understand these systems. Laboratory work with peer-to-peer and client/server networks, local- and wide-area networks (LANs and WANs), and midrange/mainframe multi-user systems allows the student to apply knowledge gained in the classroom.

Graduates can assume a variety of positions such as computer systems technician, computer technician, computer maintenance technician, computer network installer, computer network technician, network administrator, telecommunications technician, and help desk service provider.

The technical program is supplemented by courses designed to assist the networking technician in advancing his or her career. Courses are provided in mathematics, physics, written and oral communications, and the humanities.

Learning Objectives

Graduates with the Associate in Applied Science Degree in the Computer Systems Technology Program should be able to:

• Install, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, and upgrade personal computer systems hardware and software.
• Effectively design and manage networks and efficiently operate them.
• Use effective troubleshooting strategies and techniques in corrective a variety of computer system hardware and software problems.
• Install, configure, navigate, and manage modern client and server network operating systems.
• Design and build effective web sites.
• Define and describe the physical factors that affect data communications media.
• Select the most feasible alternative voice and data communications technologies for specific business applications from the various technologies available.
• Interact appropriately with customers, coworkers, and the general public in a service-oriented industry.
• Develop and deliver training for system users.

Prerequisites

Algebra I and Algebra II required.

Curriculum