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

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.