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Degrees and Schools
Many four-year colleges offer bachelors degrees in computer science, information systems or information technology. Two-year associates degrees in similar fields are available through many vocational schools and community colleges.
Classes
Computer science students divide their time between classroom and computer lab. Courses change quickly to keep up with industry trends, but typically include:
- Basics in computer hardware and networks
- Theory, design and management of relational databases
- Specific programming languages
- Software engineering
- Use and configuration of specific operating system, network and Internet software
- Computer systems design
- Computer and network security
- Distributed systems
Online Classes and Programs
Computer science and information technology degrees are abundantly available online, and are well-suited for online education. Some online programs may not offer the internship and job placement opportunities commonly offered by brick-and-mortar schools. Online programs should be part of an institution with accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or United States Department of Education (USDE).
Employment Requirements
Many employers prefer to give entry-level positions in computer support to candidates with a bachelors degree in computer science or information systems. Others require a minimum of an associates degree in a computer field, or experience and certification in relevant software and technologies.
How to Evaluate Computer Support Specialist Schools
Students assessing computer science educational programs may find the following questions helpful to ask:
- Focus and preparation - Does the program provide a well-balanced curricula, covering the many aspects of computer science?
- Classes and subjects - Are there waiting lists for popular classes? Are there a substantial number of classes relevant to a specific career interest, such as software engineering or network security?
- Practical experience - Are computer labs equipped with the latest technologies? Are they crowded?
- Financial aid and expenses - Does the school provide detailed guidance in making use of scholarships, student loans and grants?
- Graduate success - What is the program's track record for placing graduates in computer support jobs?
Computer Support Specialist Job Description
People who use computers at home or at work, regardless of their skill level, rely on computer support specialists for technical assistance and guidance. When something on their system needs repair or upgrade, or they don't know how or are unable to perform a task, users contact help-desk technicians and technical support specialists by phone, email, instant message, online forum or in person to receive answers. Additional responsibilities computer support specialists usually have are:
- Troubleshooting problems with computer software, hardware or systems
- Use of special diagnostic programs, reference guides, and contact management software
- Handling a large variety of requests from users at varying levels of skill, age, physical ability and language fluency
- Installing, configuring and removing data and software
- Taking protective and repair measure to computers infected with viruses, hacks and other vulnerabilities
- Writing training manuals and training support staff and computer users
- Providing customer service as quickly and efficiently as possible
- Communicate step-by-step instructions clearly and patiently
- Evaluating usefulness of software programs
- Monitoring computer systems and recommending fixes or upgrades
Most computer support specialists start out on the help desk, dealing directly with customers and capturing information that helps companies get feedback about their products. Many technical support specialists work in large call centers, while some work from home.
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