Information Technology Specialist

One-Year Certificate
Short-Term Certificate

Overview

This program gives you the foundational skills to obtain an entry-level position in the growing field of information technology. Whether you are looking for a quick entry into the workforce or opportunities to upskill within your current field, these certificates provide the skills employers are looking for. 

Short-Term Certificate

The IT Specialist Short-Term Certificate can be completed in just two semesters (less than a year) and is the quickest way to begin a career in information technology.

One-Year Certificate 

The IT Specialist One-Year Certificate can be completed in one calendar year (three semesters) and continues a student’s education to expand upon job opportunities.

Learning Outcomes

  • Perform end user support including identifying and implementing solutions to user requests.
  • Analyze technical requirements to determine resource requirements and the impact the solution will have on an organization.
  • Design, plan, budget and propose an IT project for an identified need within a specific scope.
  • Install technical hardware and software including network, database and security components.
  • Perform routine maintenance to maintain the currency of an operating system, network, database and security needs.
  • Identify and resolve technical problems using troubleshooting and research techniques 

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities include: 

  • help desk specialist
  • IT support specialist
  • technical support specialist
  • software testing specialist
  • facilities maintenance

Earn Industry-Recognized Credentials

After completing either certificate, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge with professional certifications in CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ to demonstrate to employers you have the skills they’re looking for. 

Continue Learning

Credits earned in this certificate count toward an associate degree in information technology. 

Post

Talent Ready Grant

The Talent Ready Grant is offered through a partnership with the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) to support students who have financial need, are enrolled in a short-term certificate that may be completed in less than one year (less than 30 credit hours), and leads to a certification or a workforce credential in an in-demand job or career. The grant is intended to assist in covering the cost of tuition and fees (up to $2000) and is a limited fund that will be awarded until funds are exhausted. 

Post

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take classes online or face-to-face?

The IT Specialist short-term certificate is primarily offered face-to-face.

The IT Specialist one-year certificate is primarily offered face-to-face, although the general education courses can be completed online.  

How quickly can I complete an IT Specialist certificate?

The IT Specialist short-term certificate takes two semesters to complete at part-time enrollment.

The IT Specialist one-year certificate takes four semesters to complete at part-time enrollment.

Where can I find a list of classes (plan of study) for the program I want to study?

Each program at COTC has a plan of study that lists the courses students take to complete a certificate or degree.

What type of financial assistance is available to help me pay for college?

COTC awards $1 million in scholarships to students each year.

Every student is encouraged to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for grants, scholarships and loans.

Students who complete a FAFSA are automatically considered for some scholarships. Other scholarships require an application.

Connect with the Office of Student Financial Services at 740.366.9435 or email NWK-studentfinancialservices@mail.cotc.edu.

Can I pursue an associate degree after I complete the certificate?

Students are encouraged to continue with COTC and complete an associate degree in information technology.

How do I get started at COTC?

Help us learn more about you by visiting our Future Students webpage, then follow the COTC Steps to Enroll to get started.