Computer Systems Technician

Program Overview

The Computer Systems Technician program at St. Lawrence College is a two-year Ontario College Diploma program that prepares students for a career in computer systems technical support. The program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer hardware and software, as well as network systems. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the computer systems field, including Help Desk Technician, Network Administrator, System Administrator, Cloud Support Specialist, Technical Support Analyst, and IT Consultant.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This two-year Ontario College Diploma program prepares students for a career in the dynamic and expanding field of computer systems technical support. The program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer hardware and software, as well as network systems. Students will gain hands-on experience through a combination of classroom instruction and practical labs. They will also complete a work placement in their final semester, providing them with valuable real-world experience. The program's objectives are to:

• Equip students with the technical skills and knowledge required for a successful career in computer systems technical support.
• Develop students' problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Foster students' communication and teamwork abilities.
• Prepare students for industry certifications, such as Microsoft, A+, LPIC-1, and Network +.
• Provide students with a strong foundation in computer hardware and software, networking, operating systems, security, and cloud computing.

Outline:

The program is divided into four semesters, each lasting approximately four months. Each semester consists of a combination of theoretical and practical courses. The program outline for the 2023-2024 academic year is as follows:

Semester 1:

• COMP 82: MS Client Operating Systems
• COMP 83: Linux 1
• COMP 203: Networking 1
• COMP 905: Programming 1
• COMP 1111: Introduction to Databases
• MATH 8: Introductory Computer Mathematics
• COMM 110: Communications for College
• GENE: General Education Course

Semester 2:

• COMP 30: Computer Hardware Systems
• COMP 66: OS Scripting
• COMP 68: Linux 2
• COMP 2111: Advanced Databases
• COMP 3014: Networking 2
• GENE: General Education Course

Semester 3:

• COMP 67: Technical Support Procedures
• COMP 77: Cloud Computing 1
• COMP 105: Ethics and Computer Security Best Practices
• COMP 213: Windows Server
• CARE 10: Career Strategies for Computing Professionals
• GENE: General Education Course
• COMP 930: Programming 2

Semester 4:

• COMP 63: Work Placement
• COMP 79: Emerging Technologies
• COMP 163: Work Experience
• COMP 207: Cloud Computing 2
• COMP 223: Networking 3
• GENE Online: General Education Online

Assessment:

Student performance in the program is assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Assignments: Students complete individual and group assignments to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
• Labs: Students participate in hands-on labs to develop their practical skills.
• Work placement: Students are assessed on their performance during their work placement.

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are passionate about computer systems technology. The faculty use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, hands-on labs, and group projects. They are committed to providing students with a supportive learning environment and helping them to achieve their full potential.

Careers:

Graduates of the Computer Systems Technician program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the computer systems field. Some of the most common career paths include:

• Help Desk Technician
• Network Administrator
• System Administrator
• Cloud Support Specialist
• Technical Support Analyst
• IT Consultant
The program also provides students with the foundation they need to pursue further education in computer science or related fields.

Other:

• The program is well-suited for people who are interested in computers but not math, physics, or electronics.
• Many of the courses in the program train students towards obtaining industry certifications.
• The program is constantly evolving to incorporate the latest technologies and meet the needs of local employers.
The program may be subject to change.