Computer Technology

Computer Technology Option: Network Administration

Students are required to take the classes and credits shown from a selected option: Network Administration or Programming. Elective credits are entirely up to the student and may be any 100 level or higher course as shown in the course schedule. Common choices include other computer classes, electronics classes, Microsoft Office classes, or business and accounting classes.

Requirements for all programs: Students must fulfill their math requirements in at least M115 Probability and Linear Math or higher and their English requirements in at least WRIT121T Introduction to Technical Writing. Students must have a computer competency equal to CAPP100 Short Courses: Computer Literacy. The placement is determined through placement testing at enrollment (or previous accredited classes). Students who do not place into the class will be required to take it at the beginning of their program, although the credits may be used to meet the elective requirements in the first semester.

As a graduation requirement students in the Helena College Computer Technology A.A.S. program must demonstrate proficiency in the program core and their chosen option area: Networking or Programming. All Computer Technology A.A.S. students must pass a proficiency test based upon core course objectives, option area course objectives within the students’ option of choice, program objectives, and corresponding nationally recognized competencies and standards. Self-paced study guides and focused study sessions are available to supplement developing skills and conceptual knowledge necessary to pass the test.

Network Administrator

Career Outlook: According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow 28 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for these workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. In addition, information security concerns are increasing for many businesses as managers realize that their current security measures are not enough to combat growing threats. More administrators with proper training will be needed to reinforce network and system security.

Growth is expected in healthcare industries as their use of information technology increases. More administrators will be required to manage the growing systems and networks found at hospitals and other healthcare institutions. Job opportunities should be favorable for this occupation. Prospects should be best for applicants who have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and who are up to date on the latest technology.

Program Cost:
Approximately $8,300

Computer Technology Option: Programming

Students are required to take the classes and credits shown. Students may choose one or both advising options, Network Administration and/or Programming, within their Computer Technology A.A.S. degree.

Program Requirements: Students must fulfill their math requirements in at least M115 Probably and Linear Math or higher and their English requirements in at least WRIT 121T introduction to Technical Writing.

Computer Technology Literacy Requirement: The Computer Technology (CT) Literacy Exam will be given at Orientation or during the first week of the semester. Students must pass all modules in the CT Literacy Exam with a minimal score of 85% in each module. Students who do not pass the CT Literacy Exam will be required to take the self-paced online CT Literacy mini-course. The mini-course leads to the successful completion of the CT Literacy Exam. The CT Literacy Exam must be completed within 4 weeks of the start of the semester. Upon passing all CT Literacy Exam modules the student will have met the CT Literacy requirement.

Graduation Requirement: In addition to passing all courses students in the Helena College Computer Technology A.A.S. program must demonstrate proficiency in the program core and their chosen advising option area: Network Administration or Programming. All Computer Technology A.A.S. students must pass a proficiency test based upon core course objectives, advising area course objectives within the students advising area of choice, program objectives, and corresponding nationally recognized competencies and standards. Self-paced study guides and focused study sessions are available to supplement developing skills and conceptual knowledge necessary to pass the test.

Computer Programmer:

Career Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of computer programmers is expected to increase by 12 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Since computer programming can be done from anywhere in the world, companies often hire programmers in countries where wages are lower. This ongoing trend will limit growth for computer programmers in the United States. However, companies may continue to hire computer programmers in low cost areas within the United States.

Most computer programmers work in computer system design and related services, an industry which is expected to grow as a result of an increasing demand for new computer software. This includes software offered over the Internet, which should lower costs for firms and allow for more customization for users. In addition, new applications will have to be developed for mobile technology and the healthcare industry. An increase in computer systems that are built into electronics and into other non-computer products should result in some job growth for computer programmers and software developers.

Job prospects will be best for programmers who have a bachelor’s degree or higher and knowledge of a variety of programming languages. Keeping up to date with the newest programming tools will also improve prospects.

Program Cost:
Approximately $8,500

 Network Administration/Programming

The suggested sequence in this catalog is for students entering in the fall semester. Please see your advisor for a suggested spring entry sequence. Students must pass the Computer Technology Literacy Exam prior to enrollment into the Computer Technology A.A.S. Program.

N = Network
P = Programming