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Computer Systems Technology

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Course Description: 

The rapidly and ever-changing world of Computer Technology requires workers with advanced skills and a continuing desire to learn. The CST program is designed to develop skills in equipment installation, diagnostics, repair, and technical maintenance of the desktop PC and its peripherals, leading to an A+ certification. Over a two-year period, students will learn advanced networking skills dealing with Internet and LAN/WAN operation, including all operational aspects of switches, hubs, routers and related equipment, including wireless technology. Upon successful completion, students will be prepared to take the A + certification test as well as assume leadership roles in a collaborative environment.

Topics covered:

Operating Systems, Wireless Communications, Network Implementation, Network Security, Computer Controlled Building Security, Network Administration, Computer Architecture, Data Representation, Team and Individual Problem-Solving, Computer Viruses, Simulation and Virtual Reality, Robotic Technology, and Customer Service.

Offered At: 

Belmont Career and Technical Education Center

Olean Career and Technical Education Center

Program Goal: 

To prepare individuals for technology challenges including wireless installation for PC, entertainment, telephone technology, PC repair and customizing. Students learn network support including data transfer and recovery and point of sale support.

Projects and Experiences: 

Projects and experiences include removing viruses, hardware and software upgrades, wiring network, robotic applications, custom build PC’s, diagnostics, new electronic device technologies, internships within the industry. Field trips to manufacturing facilities.

Students are required to create a professional portfolio showcasing their knowledge and experiences.

Assessments: 

Students will be assessed on work performance task sheets, participation, workplace skills, interaction in the classroom as well as written assessments.

National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Exam in Computer Repair Technology

Portfolio

Certifications: 

A+ Certification

May earn New York State Technical Endorsement on high school diploma

Local Employment Opportunities: 

Armed Forces

Data Center Lockport

Networking and Home Theatre Technicians

Satellite Installation and Network Connectivity

Network Support

Time Warner

Verizon

Career Paths and Potential Salaries: 

Satellite Installation $40, 000

PC Support Technician $36,000

Network Support Technician $39,000

Robotic Technician $37,000

Help Desk Support $40,000

Source: Monster.com salary wizard

Suggested Courses for Success: 

ELA, Communication Skills, Public Speaking, Math and Science courses.

High School Credits: 

Earn 7 credits including:

1 Integrated Math

1 Integrated ELA

1 Specialized Science

Earn College Credits: 
Bryant & Stratton Up to 6 credits for combination of following (3 credits each):
INFT 100 (Information Technology 1)
INFT 110 (Information Technology II)
INFT 120 (Programming I)
INFT 130 (Hardware and Operating Systems)
BUSS 100 (Business Principles) 
And 3 credits for INFT 111 (Intro to Information Tech) based on score on Computer Literacy Placement Evaluation
Erie Community College 8 credits total, four credits each for:
TE 361 (Digital) and
TE 363 (Digital II)
Pittsburgh Technical Institute 10 credits total:
ITA 101 (Intro to IT) 4 cr
ITA 121 (Hardware Technology 1) 6 cr
SUNY Cobleskill 9 credits total; 3 credits each for:
CITA 115 (Computer Operating Systems)
CITA 120 (Computer Hardware Concepts) and
CITA 290 (Special Projects)
Student Work: 

Check back for samples of student work.