Objectives
The Computer and Network Technology program consists of 1200 hours of instruction (70 quarter credit hours). The program requires 12 months for completion on the basis of approximately 25 hours of instruction per week. After the first term, the remaining terms of the program are independent of each other, thus the sequence in which they are offered to students may vary.
The Computer and Network Technology program is offered 100% online (100% online program currently in teach out in CT and MA) or 100% residential, if conditions permit. The program is offered through Waterbury, CT and Chicopee, MA campuses (residential). As part of their program materials, students in this program receive a laptop which is fully compatible with the Learning Management System (LMS) used in the delivery of instruction and are provided with computer hardware and tools to facilitate learning. Students are also provided access to a catalog of desktop and server operating systems, virtualization tools, cloud management platforms, network administration tools, and a library of simulation products.
Learning is achieved through a combination of live, synchronous interaction and asynchronous activities. Course materials, assignments, and homework are accessible in an asynchronous format 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week through the Learning Management System (LMS).
Students will need to schedule approximately 25 hours per week for residential instruction, activities and simulations, with an additional six hours per week for reading assignments and other homework activities.
The Computer and Network Technology program is an intensive study of a broad range of Information Technology concepts. Students will be trained in the following areas: installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of desktop and server hardware, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of desktop, server, and mobile operating systems, installation configuration, and maintenance of virtualization products and cloud platforms, and the installation, administration, and troubleshooting of networks including router and switch configuration. Additionally, students will learn about emerging cybersecurity concepts and threats and will be trained to implement security solutions.
This program provides comprehensive preparation for the CompTIA A+, Network +, and Cloud + certification exams. These exams are nationally recognized by the leading employers in the field of Information Technology. As part of the program, students may register for the exams at the end of the applicable courses.
The maximum number of students being taught in an online course is fifty.
Veterans’ Benefits are currently only available for the residential version of this program
Graduates entering the field of computer and network technology will have sufficient knowledge and skill for entry level employment as a Computer Technician, PC Technician, Computer Support Specialist, Network Technician, Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support or Network Support Specialist. Typically, these positions are found in businesses in the following commercial or industrial areas:
- Computer and Network Consulting
- Business/Office machines
- Healthcare
- Pharmaceutical and biological
- Navigation (space, aeronautics, and marine)
- Manufacturing (wherever automated processes are involved)
Technology Requirements
For students who, under unusual circumstances, need to access the LMS on a device other than their school issued laptop, the technology requirements are:
Microsoft: Windows 10 (Need to use Chrome Browser or Firefox - current versions as released only)
iOS Devices: Current iOS release as issued by Apple
Chrome OS: Current version of ChromeOS as released by Google
Required Software: PDF viewing software - Adobe Acrobat Reader recommended
Bandwidth - recommend minimum of 5Mbps download and 1Mbps upload as tested on www.speedtest.net
Required Tools, Books & Supplies
There are certain tools, books and supplies that students will need to successfully master the skills and information taught in their program. For the most part, this equipment consists of items that will also be used when the student graduates and begins work in the occupation for which he or she has been prepared.
The Materials Fee covers all books, devices, tools, instruments, supplies, and other materials that the students will receive from PCI during the course of their attendance in their program. (Any E-books issued are usually permanent once the student downloads them to their device. On-line access is usually limited to one year commencing with the day the E-book is activated. E-book access limits are based on publisher requirements and not within PCI’s control. E-book license limits are subject to change by the publisher without notice.) The amount of this fee is specified at the time the student submits his or her application. Even if costs increase, students will never pay more than the fee specified in their Enrollment Agreement.
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