School of Information Technology

Computer Support Specialist

Program

The Diploma in Computer Support Specialist is designed to train individuals to design, install and maintain personal and corporate computers and LAN/WAN computer networks and systems. It gives students a strong knowledge base of local and wide area networking, Internet/ Intranet connectivity, network administration and the ability to function effectively with many new technologies. The development of communication and interpersonal skills in a team environment also contributes to the base of experience needed to become a computer support specialist.

Career opportunities

Given the current growth of the Internet, the pervasiveness of computers in the workplace and the push towards a true information superhighway, Computer Support Specialist graduates may find employment with information-based businesses in both the private and public sectors. Many businesses, including schools, private business, the oil and gas sector and many entrepreneurial organizations, will have the need for graduates from the Computer Support Specialist program. Opportunities for self-employment may also exist.

Entrance Requirements

1. High School completion with an overall 60% average in:

  1. English Language - Grade 12 level (Minimum 60%)
  2. Academic Mathematics - Grade 12 leve l(Minimum 60%) or
    Advanced Math - Grade 12 level (Minimum 50%)
  3. 3 additional courses at the Grade 12 level.

    OR

    Applicants 19 years of age or older who do not meet the educational prerequisite for the program may be considered on an individual basis under the Mature Student Clause.

2. Successful completion of the Skills Placement Assessment

Required Courses

Level 1 Computer Support Specialist

Credits Lecture Hours
Per Week
Lab Hours
Per Week
CM1500 Essay Writing 3 3 0
CM1320 Communications Skills 3 3 0
MC1800 Software Applications I 4 3 2
CP1910 Internet Fundamentals 3 2 2
CP1920 Computer Hardware Troubleshooting I 4 3 2
CR1100 Network Fundamentals 4 4 0
CP3110 MS-DOS 3 2 2
CM1400 Technicial Reporting I 3 3 0
CP1360 Introduction to Programming for Non-Programmers 4 3 3
CP1921 Computer Hardware & Troubleshooting II 4 3 2
CP1280 Windows Client 3 2 3
CP2190 Unix 2 1 2
MR1260 Customer Service for the Computer Industry 2 2 1
MC1801 Software Applications II 3 2 3
CP2920 Computer Hardware & Troubleshooting III 3 2 2
EP1160 Introduction to Business Functions 3 3 1

Level 2 Computer Support Specialist

Credits Lecture Hours
Per Week
Lab Hours
Per Week
CM1401 Technical Reporting II 3 3 0
CP2170 Windows Server Management 4 3 3
CR1240 Information Security 3 2 2
CP2730 Project Management & Analysis 3 2 2
CR2400 Internetworking 4 3 3
CM2200 Oral Communications 2 2 0
CP4470 Emerging Trends 3 2 2
CR2110 Novell 4 3 3
CR2120 Network Mgmt. SMS-SNMP 3 2 4
CR2220 Groupware 3 2 3
HR2400 Professional Development Pass/Fail 2 1
WT1180 Work Term Pass/Fail 15 weeks in duration