Computer Support Specialist

Overview

Computer support specialist programs prepare people to provide technical assistance and support to computer users.

Computer support specialist programs include topics such as:

Information systems
Networking
Operating systems
Computer hardware and software
Help desk concepts
Customer service principles

Schools

Many career and technical schools as well as most community colleges offer certificate and associate degree programs in computer support specialist. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study.

Very few colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in computer support. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program of study by getting your high school diploma or GED.

For this program, you should be comfortable using computers and the Internet. You should also be familiar with different operating systems.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Computer Science and Programming
General Computer Applications
Network Technology

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This undergraduate program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Introduction to business
Network security and firewalls
Computer repair

Things to Know

Many computer support technicians decide to become certified. There are several different types of certification, but usually you must complete course work in computer installation and repair and have at least six months work experience.