Online PC Repair Degrees and Certification Programs

<p>Training in PC repair is available through certificates in computer repair and maintenance, PC repair and computer repair technology; these programs will take about a year to complete. Your classes may cover repairing computer hardware and software programs. In the program, you will learn to put computers together and set up networks. Classes may include introductory studies in computer programming languages and diagnosing computer problems. Upon completion, you should be prepared to take the basic A+ certification exam. </p> <p>You can also earn an Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Technology and Systems Management, Computer Repair Technology, Computer Software Technology or Computer Electronics Technology. Most employers look for individuals who have an associate's degree with A+ Certification, according to job listings on <i>Monster.com</i>. Courses train you to analyze, test and diagnose PC circuitry. You may study basic concepts in home repair techniques and work on both laptops and desktops. The 2-year program could also cover: </p> <ul><li>Constructing networks </li><li>Setting up wireless communication systems </li><li>Using Linux and Windows </li><li>Fixing printers </li><li>Creating computer applications </li></ul><p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Certificate Programs</b></td><td>Usually take a year, leads to A+ Certification, covers topics in programming and diagnosing computer issues</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Associate's Programs</b></td><td>Usually take about 2 years, topics covered include analyzing, testing and diagnosing PC circuitry, Linux and Windows, and computer applications</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Online Programs</b></td><td>Available, though campus-based programs are more common</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td>A+ requires two separate exams that include security issues, preventative maintenance, network and operations systems, and diagnostics</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Potential Salary*</b></td><td>Computer user support specialists made a median annual wage of $52,690 in 2020</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>8% growth for computer support specialists</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---AreOnlineProgramsAvailable">Are Online Programs Available?</h3> <p>Some certificates and associate's degree programs are offered online, though on-campus programs are typically more common. CompTIA's study materials are also available online, so you can easily prepare for the exams. Similar to on-campus programs, some online programs expect students to attend in-person sessions in order to gain practical hands-on experience installing networks and troubleshooting. This allows you to prepare for the exams and your professional IT career. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatDoesCertificationInvolve">What Does Certification Involve?</h3> <p>A+ certification is the standard certification for computer service technicians and demonstrates that you have the necessary skill set to work on computer hardware, software and networks. To acquire certification, you must pass two exams administered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), which assess your ability to solve security issues, network problems, and troubleshoot problems using practical, hands-on applications. Many postsecondary programs cover the topics on the certification exams. CompTIA also makes study tools available. Some exam topics include: </p> <ul><li>Diagnostics and troubleshooting </li><li>Hardware configuration and upgrades </li><li>Preventative maintenance </li><li>Printer operations </li><li>Network and operation systems </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatCareerOpportunitiesAreAvailable">What Career Opportunities Are Available?</h3> <p>Career opportunities include working as a computer repair technician, which involves troubleshooting, fixing computer hardware, software and operations. You could also become a printer technician, installing and fixing computer printers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most computer user support specialists have an associate's degree and made a median annual salary of about $52,690 in 2020.</p>