Associate in Science Degree Program
Computer Software Support Specialist
The Computer Support Specialist degree is designed for full-time or part-time students who wish to prepare for the positions of Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Specialist and Customer Service Representative. This occupational group provides technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and users. The degree prepares graduates by developing in them skills ranging from the technical and computer-related to the "people" skills of verbal and written communications, telephone skills, tact, good manners, and logical problem diagnosis and solution.
The degree incorporates preparation for the certification examinations for either CompTIA (Computer Technical Industry Association) A+ or MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist). A range of general education courses in the program enrich professional skills.
Click here to view the Computer Support Specialist poster.
| Learning Outcomes |
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Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:
- Understand the psychology of the workplace, including attendance, punctuality, initiative, teamwork, privacy, discrimination issues, due process, safety, employee/employer conflict, job descriptions and techniques for working productively with people of diverse cultures and backgrounds
- Apply customer service and end-user support principles, including communication skills, telephone etiquette, and courtesy when dealing with customers and individuals lacking a technical background
- Understand career paths in the computer support field
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of the Internet that includes effective strategies for on line research and correct citation of internet based resources
- Describe the features and functions of the major categories of applications software (word packaging, database, spreadsheet, presentation, e-mail, browsers, etc.)
- Demonstrate proficiency in installing and configuring software, uninstalling operating system software, configuring software for accessibility by disabled individuals, installing and configuring applications software upgrades, and modifying an operating system
- Communicate effectively with clients, verbally and in writing
- Understand and apply mathematical and scientific reasoning in solving problems and think critically
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| Course of Study¹ |
| First Semester |
Credits |
|
Introduction to Software Applications |
3 |
|
Composition |
3 |
|
Introduction to Computers |
3 |
|
Principles of Statistics OR |
3 |
|
Intermediate Algebra |
|
|
General Psychology I OR |
3 |
|
Principles of Sociology |
|
| Second Semester |
|
The Internet |
3 |
|
Advanced Applications |
3 |
|
Intro to Mass Communication OR |
3 |
|
Intro. to Visual Communication OR |
|
|
Public Speaking |
|
|
Composition & Literature |
3 |
___ ___ |
Science Elective |
3 |
| Third Semester |
|
Intro to Operating Systems |
3 |
|
Help Desk Concepts |
3 |
|
Web Design and Development I |
3 |
___ ___ |
Arts Elective |
3 |
___ ___ |
CSA*, CSC*, or CST* Elective |
3 |
___ ___ |
Humanities Elective |
3 |
| Fourth Semester |
|
Applications Software Support |
3 |
|
Data Comm and Networking I OR |
3 |
|
LAN System Management |
|
|
Business Internship OR |
3 |
|
Principles of Management OR |
|
|
Principles of Customer Service |
|
___ ___ |
CSA*, CSC*, or CST* Elective |
3 |
___ ___ |
Social Sciences Elective |
3 |
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