Associate’s Degree and Certificate Programs for Computer Repairs
Higher Education Articles August 18, 2014Receive information about associate’s and certificate programs in computer repair and their coursework and job and wage outlook.
Important Information
A computer repair technician’s work involves installing, fixing and maintaining computers. While a high school diploma is the minimal qualification for work in this field, employers prefers those who holds an associate degree or certificate in computer repair technology, accompanied by knowledge of technical mathematics and computer diagnostic software, in addition to electronics fundamentals.
Associate’s Degree Programs in Computer Repair Technology
In order to satisfy the needs of aspiring computer repair technicians, schools offer associate’s degree programs in computer maintenance technology, computer repair technology, and related fields. Students complete these programs in two years. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
Associate degree and certificate programs in computer repair technology usually feature identical core coursework. However, students enrolled in associate’s degree programs are usually required to complete general education courses and in some instances, an internship or practicum component.
Certificate Programs in Computer Repair Technology
Computer repair technicians typically hold an associate degree or certificate (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). It usually takes two semesters of study to complete a certificate program in computer repair technology, whereby an essential background in operating systems and computers, apart from computer repair, are provided to students.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
The focus of the curriculum for a certificate program in computer repair technology is on network technologies and computer systems, in the absence of any general education classes. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Computer diagnostic software
•Technical mathematics and/or technical writing
•Hardware troubleshooting
•Basic electronics for computer repair
•Network client operating systems
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2010 – 2020 decade, job growth rates of 7% have been predicted for computer, ATM and office machine repairers. Computer repairers alone are expected to see a better job growth rate, owing to the anticipated demand for replacing computer parts and upgrading computers at organizations (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, computer repair technicians brought home an average annual salary of $36,620, ranging between a minimum wage of $22,490 and a maximum of $57,960.
