Here’s a program to consider if you enjoy combining technical and customer service skills in a variety of business and office settings. Our Computer Support Specialist program will train you for a rewarding career as a computer support specialist, software specialist, help desk specialist, training and support coordinator, or PC support specialist.
You’ll learn valuable skills needed by companies ranging from hospitals to financial institutions, large corporations, school districts, and universities. Hardware and software manufacturers also hire program graduates to work as customer service representatives and help desk personnel.
Bellingham Technical College is a Microsoft IT Academy member and is a member of CompTIA.
Data are provided on a program (not credential) level
68% BTC graduate placement rate
$85,379 starting annual wage2
$112,225 average annual wage2
$141,197 potential annual wage2
This program typically starts in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Quarters on a space available basis.
Admissions application and assessment testing in Reading, Math and Writing is required. Your score on the test and/or your previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.
ENGL& 101 | English Composition I (Required) | 5 CR |
MATH& 107 | Math in Society | 5 CR |
OR |
Any approved Math course as detailed on the AAS-T Math course option list. |
CMST& 210 | Interpersonal Communication | 5 CR |
OR |
PSYC& 100 | General Psychology | 5 CR |
OR |
SOC& 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 5 CR |
BIT 100 | Survey of Business and Information Technology | 2 CR |
BUS& 101 | Introduction to Business | 5 CR |
CAP 138 | MS Word | 5 CR |
CAP 142 | Microsoft Excel | 5 CR |
CAP 146 | Microsoft Access | 3 CR |
IT 101 | Using Network Computer Systems | 5 CR |
IT 112 | A+ Hardware | 5 CR |
IT 120 | Command Line Interface and Scripting | 5 CR |
IT 141 | A+ Operating Systems | 5 CR |
IT 142 | Windows Desktop | 5 CR |
IT 160 | Network Technology I | 5 CR |
IT 271 | Field Based Experience | 5 CR |
Computer Support Specialist students may choose elective credits from any 100 level or higher courses with the following prefixes: ACCT, BUS, BUS&, CAP, CIS, CS, CS&, ECON, HT, LGL, IT, OR MGMT. Courses taken to meet the general education or program core requirements may not be used for electives. | 15 CR |
After successfully completing this program, students will be able to:
Computer support positions are expected to be one of the fastest growing occupations over the next decade. The rapid rate of growth and change in the field requires a commitment to stay current with new technologies. Enhancing a Computer Support Specialist degree with industry recognized certifications increases employment opportunities.
The average annual wage in this field is $55,973, with an earning potential of about $69,680 per year.*
Computer software support and training staff usually work in the information support departments of large organizations such as universities, government agencies, hospitals, financial institutions and major corporations.
Hardware and software manufacturers also employ telephone-based help as customer service representatives. Potential positions include computer support specialist, computer software specialist, help desk specialist, training and support coordinator, desktop services analyst, PC support specialist, response line representative, and help desk analyst.
If you have questions about this program or want help with the admissions steps to Bellingham Technical College, please email outreach@btc.edu.
Current students wanting academic planning and support, can connect with the program Instructor(s) or email BusinessITNav@btc.edu