Mission: The mission of this program is to prepare students for employment providing support through the use of personal computers in the business field. This is a competency-based lab course with emphasis on Microsoft Office software and related curriculum that leads to student success in the workplace.

Program B070400 consists of a planned sequence of courses.

Information Technology Assistant - Course OTA0040 (150 Hours) – This course is designed to provide a basic overview of current business and information systems and trends and to introduce students to the basics and foundations required for today’s business environments. Emphasis is placed on developing proficiency with touch keyboarding and fundamental computer applications so they may be used as communication tools for enhancing personal and work-place proficiency in an information-based society. This also includes proficiency with computers using word processing, database, spreadsheet, and presentation software that meet industry standards. Job seeking techniques, career planning, and success strategies will also be developed.

Help Desk Support Assistant - Course CTS0086 (300 Hours) – Builds on the skills introduced in Course OTA0040 and introduces the students to the help desk support technology, hardware components, computer networks, e-mail and Internet activities, and software applications.

Help Desk Technician -Course CTS0087 (300 Hours) – Includes all the intended outcomes of Courses OTA0040 and CTS0086. Students will be thoroughly trained in help desk support, the use of system software, application software, the Internet, and will learn the basics of computer networks and web page creation.

Help Desk Analyst - Course CTS0088 (150 Hours) – Requires that all intended outcomes of Courses OTA0040, CTS0086, and CTS0087 must be completed before pursuing this competency area. Students will become proficient in the PC/software support services environment, with the skills to identify possible solutions to troubleshoot software and hardware problems. Students will also be able to demonstrate the skills associated with the Microsoft Certified Application Specialist (MCAS) Certification.

Industry Certification(s): Microsoft Certified Application Specialist