Thank you for your interest in our IT Support Certificate Program. Below are answers to questions we frequently receive from students. If you don’t find the answer to your question below, please contact us at (425) 564-4005.
Who created the Information Technology Certificate Program?
The program was created by the Computers & Technology department with input from industry professionals.
What can I do as an IT Support Technician?
Some of the job titles in this area include IT Support, Network Support, Desktop Support, Help Desk Technician, Tier I Help Desk Engineer, Support Engineer 1, Help Desk/Network Support, Computer Operations Specialist I.
The primary job skills associated with Network and Desktop Support are: setting up new computers, printers, and other equipment, installing operating systems and applications, configuring equipment to communicate in a LAN/WAN, maintaining existing installations, troubleshooting and resolving problems with the devices and the network connections. IT Support positions usually involve extensive interaction with the computer users, so understanding the common software applications and the ability to resolve application problems is a must.
What is the work like?
There can be a lot of variety:
- Solve network connection issues
- Set up new workstations or laptops
- When an employee leaves, reconfigure the workstation or laptop for the new employee
- Install and configure operating systems and various applications
- Replace or repair defective equipment or components
- Help users understand how to maximize their use of computers and applications
What does it take to be successful in this field?
- Attention to detail
- Good time management skills and the ability to juggle several tasks
- Analysis and problem solving skills (troubleshooting skills)
- Strong communication skills
What industries employ Network and Desktop Support Specialists?
In today’s marketplace, computers and networks can be found in any industry, from the home office to the large corporation. All industries need IT Support Specialists, but some businesses have a higher percentage of IT workers. For an analysis by industry, see the Washington State Employment Security Department Workforce Explorer website
Are there websites listing IT Support jobs?
Yes, there are both industry specific and many general websites you can search for IT Support jobs. The list below is an example only and we do not endorse any specific company.
http://www.monster.com
http://www.microsoft.com/careers
http://www.dice.com
http://seattle.craigslist.org/tch/
What are the technical and nontechnical skills a Network/Desktop Support Specialist needs to have?
Because computers and networks are used in just about every field, there are some variables in the list of required technical skills. These skills can vary immensely from industry to industry. For instance, a specialist working in a hospital’s IT department might be required to connect medical monitoring equipment to the network while a specialist in an aviation manufacturing facility may have to work with computerized assembly systems. The following list provides just some of the basic common technical and nontechnical skills potential job seekers might find in a job posting.
Technical:
- Installation and configuration of Windows operating systems
- Installation and configuration of common business applications
- Troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance methods for computers, servers and other network devices
- Ability to write scripts to automate common, repetitive tasks
- Familiarity with network protocols such as TCP/IP
Nontechnical:
- Creative, detail oriented with a motivation to solve problems. Requires discipline and perseverance to master a wide variety of skills and to practice lifetime learning.
- Self-motivation within a team environment
- Ability to communicate effectively (verbal as well as written)
- Willingness to take a project to completion, even if it means working long or extra hours, will help build a reputation for reliability
If I have no experience and take this program, are there entry-level jobs and what is the salary range?
After finishing this program, you will have enough tools to be successful as an entry-level Network/Computer Support Specialist. Often you will be working with a team and learn from experienced co-workers. The salary range depends on many things and we suggest you look at the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook . In addition, labor market information for King County and Washington State is available at http://www.workforceexplorer.com . Whenever you are considering a career change, we recommend you view job descriptions from multiple sources to determine what current positions are required of applicants. Contract agencies are a great way to get started while you are searching for a permanent position.
Is this a new certificate program?
The certificate is new, but most of the classes have been offered for over five years and Bellevue College has trained hundreds of students.
How does the program work?
The Network and Desktop Support certificates will usually take up to a year on a part-time basis to complete, but it needs to be completed in no more than 13 quarters, starting with the quarter in which you begin your first class.
How do I get my certificate when I finish the course?
You must complete all required and elective courses in your program before receiving a Certificate of Completion. Once you’ve completed all your courses, click here to Request a Certificate of Completion . You’ll be asked to complete a brief program survey, and then will be directed to the certificate request page. Your request will be forwarded electronically to an advisor for review. You will be contacted by the college if there are any questions. You can expect to receive your Certificate of Completion in the mail about three weeks after filling out your request.
How did you come up with the classes in this program?
We worked with industry professionals who helped us select classes that best represented the set of skills IT Support Specialists need to possess to succeed in Network/Desktop Support.
Is there a minimum number of classes I need to take per quarter?
The program was created with a busy student in mind. It is up to you how many classes you take in a quarter. Our only requirement is that you complete the certificate within 13 quarters including the quarter in which you begin your first class. This assures your knowledge is current.
Are there any prerequisites?
There are no specific prerequisites to start in the program. It is required that you have an understanding of Windows (file/folder management, menus, and layout) as well as a basic understanding of common applications such as e-mail and word processing.
Do you have to take classes in a specific order?
For the Desktop Support Certificate, you may take Word, Excel, and Outlook at any time. Other classes should be taken in the order outlined. Instructors will assume a readiness for the class materials and will not use class time to discuss prerequisite material.
What if I have an extensive experience in some of the topics taught? Can I skip or substitute classes?
Yes, on case-by-case basis and subject to approval based on work history/experience and prior education, one of the required classes might be substituted with another class. However, students must still complete the total number of required classes.
Do these classes lead to CompTIA certifications?
These classes will help prepare you for those examinations but are not specifically exam prep courses. The textbooks are geared toward exam preparation.
Is there a formal sign-up for this certificate program?
No, there is no formal entry process.
What happens if I’m close to the end of the program and a class is cancelled or not given that quarter?
We will allow for an extension or select/approve a substitute class for you to complete the program.
Where are the classes held?
These classes are held at the Bellevue College North Campus. The current quarterly print and web schedule always specifies the room where each class meets.
What kinds of computers do you use?
Our classrooms are equipped with PCs with current versions of software.
What is the approximate cost of tuition and books?
Please check the BC class schedule or website for current class prices. $4200-$4400 is an approximation and is subject to change. Books are included in the price of your class and will be given to you at the first class session.
May I retake a class if I miss a session or want a refresher?
We cannot manage student absences by offering make-up sessions. Retakes are not available.
How can I register for classes?
- Call Customer Service at (425) 564-2263, or register in person at the North Campus (10700 Northup Way, Bellevue) or Main Campus (3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue)
- Online at continuingeducation.bellevuecollege.edu
- By fax at (425) 564-3113
