Computer Support Technician

Be job ready. Earn a Computer Support Technician Diploma in about a year. Train for an entry-level position in Information Technology maintaining secure computer systems and networks in the modern workforce. Obtain industry-standard certifications through guided instruction, hands-on projects, and live work. Develop personal, workplace, and technical skills grounded in academics.

Employment Stats

  • Program Length 3 semester (Diploma)
  • Job Placement 90%
  • Average Earnings $64,990 / yr

Job Expectations

  • Troubleshoot and resolve computer and network issues.
  • Deliver excellent customer service and technical support.
  • Manage and prioritize technical support tickets.
  • Maintain best practices and configure secure IT systems.
  • Document change management, train end users, and improve the knowledge base.

Expected Earnings

In 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Handbook reported the median wages of a Computer User Support Specialist were hourly $29.59 and annually $61,550. The Chattanooga metro area approaches these national statistics. Employment varies by the employers' requirements and each applicant's knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as experience, education, and certifications.

Course Schedule

Enroll for fall, spring or summer semesters. Enrollment is limited to 35 students in each class. Current students are provided with opportunity to register early. Completion of the program requires 1290 clock hours.

Full-Time Program Schedule by Semester Clock Hours 
Semester Day Class Days
Fall (450 hours) 7:45am – 2:30pm Monday - Friday
Spring (450 hours) 7:45am – 2:30pm Monday - Friday
Summer (390 hours) 7:45am – 2:45pm Monday - Friday

Tools

1 – Computer Repair Tool Kit with precision screwdrivers and anti-static wrist strap

1 – Headphones (if wireless, requires a USB dongle adapter) or earbuds

1 – Protective Eyewear designed to reduce digital eye strain

3 – Pairs of plain polo shirts and khaki pants with black/brown belt

7  – CompTIA Online Software

  • Office Pro 
  • CertMaster Learn A+ Core 1 and Core 2
  • Soft Skills Essentials
  • Windows Client Pro
  • CertMaster Learn Network+
  • AI Fundamentals
  • CertMaster Learn Security+

3  – Cengage MindTap Online Software

  • CompTIA A+ Guide to IT Technical Support
  • CompTIA Network+ Guide to Networks
  • CompTIA Security+ Guide to Network Security Fundamentals

2  – Coursera Online Software

  • Google IT Support Professional
  • Google Cybersecurity

TCAT Special Fees

Charged in Addition to Maintenance and Tuition

  • Credit by Examination - The regular course fee is charged for each special examination and must be paid prior to taking the examination. Non-refundable.
     
  • Credit for Life Experience - $15 per credit hour in excess of 3 credit hours. $90 maximum.
     
  • High School Equivalency Test (Hi-SET) - $75
     
  • ACT Placement Test - $45

Books

12-month Cengage Unlimited Subscription

  • CompTIA A+ Guide to IT Technical Support

  • Lab Manual for CompTIA A+ Guide to IT Technical Support

  • CompTIA Network+ Guide to Networks

  • CompTIA Security+ Guide to Network Security Fundamentals

101 Labs CompTIA Network+

101 Labs CompTIA Security+

Curriculum

First Semester

  • Microsoft 365 Office Specialist
  • Google IT Support Professional 
  • CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2
     
Second Semester
  • CompTIA Soft Skills Essentials
  • Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator
  • CompTIA Network+

Third Semester

  • CompTIA AI Fundamentals
  • Google Cybersecurity
  • CompTIA Security+

 

Career Opportunities

Computer User Support Specialist
Desktop Support Technician
Help Desk Analyst
Technical Support Specialist
Information Technology Specialist