Computer Information Science American River College

Degrees 

A.S. - PC Support Management

Description:
The CIS: PC Support Management degree covers the use and maintenance of a microcomputer’s hardware, software and network connections in today’s business environment. Course work includes learning basic computer skills in configuration, use, and troubleshooting major hardware components, different operating systems, and applications in a standalone and network environment. Additionally, the degree introduces basic business and project management skills. This program covers all the objectives of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+ certification exam.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
  • Identify the names, purpose, and characteristics of system components.
  • Evaluate and demonstrate basic procedures for adding and removing field replaceable components for desktop computers.
  • Analyze and demonstrate the installation and troubleshooting of current operating systems, applications and basic networking technology used in industry.
  • Formulate back-up, recovery, and system protection plans for the operating system in a network environment.
  • Develop proficiency in customer service skills to effectively diagnose and communicate microcomputer software and hardware-related problems and solutions at the user level.
  • Demonstrate the techniques to manage a project, control costs, and schedule resources employing management software.
  • Recognize within the information technology (IT) field the diverse business environment associated with support issues.
  • Configure and implement data security methods for protecting computers and networks from unauthorized access.

Course List:

Required Program
BUS 300 Introduction to Business 3
BUS 310 Business Communications 3
CISA 160 Project Management Techniques and Software 3
CISC 310 Introduction to Computer Information Science 3
CISC 320 Operating Systems 11
CISC 350 Introduction to Data Communications 1
CISC 351 Introduction to Local Area Networks 1
CISC 361 Microcomputer Support Essentials - Preparation for A+ Certification 3
CISC 362 Microcomputer and Applications Support 2
CISC 363 Microcomputer Support Technical - Preparation for A+ Certification 3
CISS 301 Ethical Hacking 2
A minimum of 6 units from the following:
 6
   BUSTEC 126 Outlook: Basics (1)
      or CISA 126 Outlook: Basics (1)
   BUSTEC 127 Outlook: Tools (1)
      or CISA 127 Outlook: Tools (1)../courses/cisa-courses/cisa_127.html
   CISA 305 Beginning Word Processing (2)
   CISA 315 Introduction to Electronic Spreadsheets (2)
   CISA 320 Introduction to Database Management (1)
   CISA 340 Presentation Graphics (2)
   CISC 306 Introduction to Web Page Creation (1)
   CISC 323 Linux Operating System (1)
Total Units: 31
1Taken on the Windows operating system.  

Click here for Printable Degree - Course Check Off Sheet

Associate in Science Degree
The CIS: PC Support Management Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See ARC graduation requirements.

Career Opportunities:
The CIS: PC Support Management degree covers the use and maintenance of a microcomputer’s hardware, software and network connections in today’s business environment. Course work includes learning basic computer skills in configuration, use, and troubleshooting major hardware components, different operating systems, and applications in a standalone and network environment. Additionally, the degree introduces basic business and project management skills. This program covers all the objectives of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+ certification exam.

Search Jobs:
Example terms and keywords to use in job search sites:

Terms: Technology - PC Support Management - California

Job Search Titles:
PC Support Specialist
Workstation PC Technician
PC Support Technician
IT Site Support Manager
IT Deskside Support
Property Control Support
Information Management Support
Desktop Support Engineer
IT Technical Support
Product Support Specialist (Networking)
Technical Product Support Specialist (Networking)
Product Support Specialist
Computer Operator/Support Technician
Help Desk Support Engineer III
Technical Support Specialist (MAC)
Technical Support Analyst
Desktop Support Analyst
IT Tech (Basic Entry-Level)
Sample Job Search Websites:
Indeed.com - http://www.indeed.com/
SimplyHired.com - http://www.simplyhired.com/
Monster.com - http://www.monster.com/
Bureau of Labor Statistics - Resources for Jobseeker or Worker:
http://www.bls.gov/audience/jobseekers.htm
LinkedIn.com - Job Search: 
https://www.linkedin.com/job/home?trk=nav_responsive_sub_nav_jobs