Information on the Computer Information System Specialist program available at Carl Sandburg College in Galesburg, IL.

1. Computer Information Systems Specialist www.sandburg.edu

2. COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS Carl Sandburg College offers two distinct programs to serve the needs of students with diverse educational or career goals including Computer Information Systems Specialists and Computer Networking Specialists.

3. Computer Information Systems Specialist Associate in Applied Science Degree This curriculum is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment positions that require them to be users or to support users of computers in a business or professional setting. A graduate of this program will be able to function very effectively as a user of the software as well as a trainer and support person for others in an organization. In addition to the specialized computer application courses, additional business and general education courses are included. This program provides preparation for Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator and Comp/TIA A+ industry certifications recognizedworldwide.

4. Basic Network Security Certificate This certificate is designed to provide students with practical techniques for protecting the security of an organization’s information assets and resources and increase the depth of knowledge and skills of technical staff charged with administering and securing information systems and networks. Security issues, technologies and recommended practices are addressed at increasing layers of complexity, beginning with concepts and proceeding on to technical implementations. The courses required for this certificate involve extensive hands-on laboratories utilizing a heterogeneous network environment, scenario based exercises, lecture/briefings, and open discussion to help participants develop their understanding of the problems and strategies for securing information systems and networks.

5. Nature of the Work Computer System Specialists provide technical assistance, support and advise to company staff and other users. These system specialists are troubleshooters, providing valuable assistance to their organization’s computer users. Because many nontechnical employees are not computer experts, they often run into computer problems they cannot resolve on their own and rely on system specialists. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software and systems. They answer phone calls, analyze problems using diagnostic programs, and resolve recurrent difficulties. Working Conditions Computer Systems Specialists normally work in offices or other business like settings. They usually work a normal 40 hour week as many other professional or office workers, however the work week may include weekend or evening work, if the employer requires support over extended hours. These workers spend long periods in front of a computer terminal or typing on a keyboard.

6. Certification Students completing the Computer Information Systems Specialist program are eligible to sit for the various MCP exams, MCSA which consists of 4 exams and the Comp/TIA A+ exam. Students completing the Basic Network Security Certificate would be eligible to sit for the CompTIA Security +, Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and CompTIA Linux+ certifications. Employment Computer Systems Specialists are expected to be among the fastest growing occupations during this next decade. As computers and software become more complex, systems specialists will be needed in additional numbers to provide technical assistance to customers and other users. Students that enter this career field can expect annual earning around $46,000 to $65,000. To learn more about the admission requirement and the application process for this program call (309) 341-5229.

7. CSC Advantages • Small class size allows individual attention • Hands on experience using current network equipment • Day and evening, and on-line classes offered • Qualified instructors Special Needs Carl Sandburg College complies with all applicable federal and state non-discrimination laws, orders, and regulations. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to the Affirmative Action Officer. Facilities are accessible for people with physical disabilities. Persons requiring special accommodations should make their needs known at the time of registration by contacting the Academic Support Services Office at (309) 341-5262.

8. Cost & Financial Aid For current tuition and fees, please refer to our Web site at www.sandburg.edu. A variety of scholarships, loans, grants, and other forms of financial aid are available to qualified applicants. For information contact the Financial Aid Office at (309) 341-5283. Mission Statement OPPORTUNITY TO SUCCEED The mission of Carl Sandburg College is to provide accessible, quality education in a caring environment by keeping the learner’s needs at the center of decision making and by working in partnership with communities of the College district. 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd. Galesburg, IL 61401 www.sandburg.edu (309) 341-5229 Toll Free (877) 236-1862, ext. 5229