Course Description
The Computer & Networking Technology course is designed as a one- or two-year study of computer hardware, operating system software, and networking technologies. Students will learn how to install and perform repairs on computer hardware, software, and peripheral equipment during first year of the course and will be prepared to earn Comptia A+ Certification. During the second year, students will learn how to design, install, and troubleshoot computer networks and be prepared to earn Comptia Net+ Certification. The course does not guarantee passing either the A+ or Net+ tests. The CompTIA tests are not currently offered on-site.

Personal Skills
Personal skills include service orientation, social perceptiveness, coordination, time management, judgment and decision-making.

Physical Skills
Physical activities include lifting weights 10 – 20 pounds, being able to discriminate colors and having a medium level of vision and speech clarity.

Suggested Related H.S. Coursework and Activities
Algebra, Applied Geometry, Language Arts, Sciences, Social Studies, Communications, Keyboarding, Technical Education, Electronics, Occupational Electronics, Principles of Technology, Drafting, Work-Based Training (Co-op/Internship), SkillsUSA

Salary Range
The average salary for entry-level computer support specialist in Missouri is $27,870 ($13.40/hr) to an average of $48,490 ($23.31/hr) for experienced workers. The average hourly wage in Missouri is $20.01.

College Credit
Discussions regarding agreements with St. Charles Community College and University of Central Missouri for college credit are in progress.

Related Post-Secondary Programs
Computer and Information Sciences, Information Sciences and Systems, Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Business Systems Networking and Telecommunications

Related Occupations
Computer Support Specialist, Network Control Operator, Technical Support Specialist, Computer Equipment Repairer, Computer Technician.

Missouri Job Outlook
Computer support specialists are projected to be among the fastest growing occupations in Missouri for the years 2006-2016. Employment for computer support specialist is projected to increase from 9,630 in 2006 to 10,370 in 2016. It is estimated 740 average annual job openings will be created by growth and persons leaving the labor force.

Continuing Education
Training in this field may be acquired formally or on the job. Formal training may include 1- & 2-year certificate programs from trade/technical schools, apprenticeships, Applied Associate Degrees from community colleges or 4 or more years from universities. The military offers formal training and work experience.

Placement
The percent of our students who, 6 months after graduation, were continuing their education, employed in the workforce or in the military.

• 2003 – 92%

• 2004 – 91%

• 2005 – 67%

• 2006 – 90%

• 2007 – 100%

• 2008 – 60%