PC Support Specialist Certificate

34 Semester Credit Hours; Curriculum: 0127

This certificate prepares students for entry-level PC and user support roles providing hardware and software assistance in business environments. Students gain hands-on experience with PC hardware, operating systems, peripherals and troubleshooting, along with support for business software and productivity tools. The curriculum includes CompTIA A+ certification preparation and emphasizes communication, customer-focused support, and exposure to data visualization and AI-enabled business applications commonly used in modern workplaces.

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Courses for a Certificate
CAB 110	Windows Fundamentals	1
CAB 135	Electronic Spreadsheeting Using Excel	2
CIS 101	Introduction to Computer Information Systems	3
CIS 102	Job Search Principles and Tools 1	1
CIS 103	Computer Software and Concepts	4
CIS 136	Project Management Fundamentals Using Agile Principles	3
CIS 201	Information Systems for Business	3
CIS 203	Managing Information Systems	3
CIS 240	Data Visualization Using Tableau	3
CIS 271	AI for Business Solutions	3
ELT 130	PC Hardware and Maintenance Concepts	3
ELT 140	PC Operating Systems and Professional Management	3
ELT 150	A+ Certification Preparation	2
Total Hours		34

Internship (recommended):
An internship is vital for a PC Support Specialist Certificate as it provides hands-on real-world experience, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge, gain practical skills, and build a professional network crucial for launching a successful career in the field. In addition to finding internships on their own, students are welcome to use Oakton's Internship program for assistance. Visit www.oakton.edu/internships or email internships@oakton.edu for more information.

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It is recommended to take this course nearing the completion of the certificate.

PC Support Specialist Certificate Pathway

The following Pathway is recommended for students pursuing the PC Support Specialist Certificate.

Plan of Study Grid

First Year
Semester One		Hours
CIS 101	Introduction to Computer Information Systems	3
CIS 103	Computer Software and Concepts	4
CIS 201	Information Systems for Business	3
ELT 130	PC Hardware and Maintenance Concepts	3
	Hours	13
Semester Two
CAB 110	Windows Fundamentals	1
CAB 135	Electronic Spreadsheeting Using Excel	2
CIS 136	Project Management Fundamentals Using Agile Principles	3
CIS 203	Managing Information Systems	3
ELT 140	PC Operating Systems and Professional Management	3
	Hours	12
Second Year
Semester One
CIS 102	Job Search Principles and Tools	1
CIS 240	Data Visualization Using Tableau	3
CIS 271	AI for Business Solutions	3
ELT 150	A+ Certification Preparation	2
	Hours	9
	Total Hours	34

Note: Pathway is a recommended sequence and selection of courses. Students should contact the department chair to discuss the pathway as well as course prerequisites and recommendations.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Install, configure and maintain PC hardware, peripherals and operating systems in accordance with industry standards.
2. Troubleshoot and resolve common hardware, software and operating system issues using systematic problem-solving methods aligned with CompTIA A+ domains.
3. Support and apply business software and productivity tools, including operating systems, in workplace environments.
4. Apply foundational information systems and IT management concepts to support technology use in business and organizational contexts.
5. Collaborate and contribute to technology projects by applying Agile principles and basic project coordination practices.
6. Create and interpret basic data visualizations to support operational reporting and decision-making.
7. Explain and support AI-enabled business tools and systems used to improve workplace efficiency and enhance user experience.
8. Demonstrate professional communication, customer service and job-readiness skills required for entry-level PC and user support roles.