Computer Support Specialist

Computer Support Specialist - AAS

In a world where everyday items are increasingly dependent upon computers – from phones to televisions to medical equipment – the need for skilled workers who can troubleshoot computer software issues is growing. If you enjoy combining technical and customer service skills in a variety of business and office settings, Bellingham Technical College’s Computer Support Specialist associate degree could be a good fit to get your tech career started. BTC’s Computer Support Specialist program will train you for top jobs in computer support, software, help desk support, PC support, and training and software support coordination.

BTC’s classes will train you in valuable software and computer support skills needed by companies big and small, including hospitals, financial institutions, large corporations, school districts, and universities. Computer hardware and software manufacturers also hire BTC’s program graduates to work as customer service representatives and help desk personnel.

Students in the Computer Support Specialist associate degree program at Bellingham Technical College will receive training in word processing, spreadsheets and databases; teaching others how to use computers and software; basic computer programming and website building; operating system installation and configuration; and more.

Bellingham Technical College is a Microsoft IT Academy member and is a member of CompTIA.

Employment Information

75% BTC graduate placement rate

$44,450 starting annual wage
$55,973 average annual wage
$69,680 potential annual wage

Employment and Wage Data Sources

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect WA/OR employment for students enrolled at BTC between 2016-17 and 2018-19. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2020 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (Washington State wage) and reflect 2015-2018 employment. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data from the Washington SBCTC that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50^th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

Estimated Program Costs

Estimated Books, Tools and Supplies Costs

Tuition Fees and Rates

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

This program typically starts in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer Quarters on a space available basis.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater and a grade of C will be the minimum passing grade for all courses.

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.

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 90

CAP 142 Microsoft Excel 5 CR
This course provides a practical hands-on approach to developing the skills to use the powerful spreadsheet application, Excel. Students will use Excel to organize and analyze data, perform numerical calculations, and illustrate relationships in numerical data by displaying charts. For off-campus work, a Windows-based computer is required.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Jeff Dowd
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 1
AMATH 100 Applied Occupational Math 5 CR
This course emphasizes mathematics used in the professional technical occupations. Students will learn mathematical skills in the following: fractions, decimals, percents, ratios & proportions, U.S. Customary Units and metric measurement systems, basic geometry and elementary algebra. The course will include relevent technical applications and the use of a calculator.
Future Offerings:
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Kristine Newton
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
BUS 150 Math for Business 5 CR
Students will apply math concepts to business applications in the areas of banking, business statistics, markup/markdown, payroll, debt, credit cards, investments, and insurance. It is recommended that students have a calculator with the exponent function.
Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 Marcia Pedersen
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 MWF 12:30 PM-1:50 PM Marcia Pedersen
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
MATH& 107 Math in Society 5 CR
This course exposes students to mathematical thought and quantitative thinking to solve problems in the context of real-world scenarios. It introduces topics such as consumer problem solving, voting/decision theory, graph theory, growth and decay models, finance, statistics, probability, and counting systems in the context of their applications.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Kristine Newton
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Or Higher

BIT 100

Survey of Business and Information Technology

2 CR

IT 101 Using Network Computer Systems 5 CR
This course provides an introduction to the use of networked computer systems. Topics include the implementation and use of campus and departmental learning resources basic operating system use including file system navigation and command line interfaces basic keyboarding skills network authentication and networked resource access. Prerequisites: ACCUPLACER Reading (247) or higher OR RDG 085 with a C or higher and ACCUPLACER Writing (245) or higher OR ENGL 092 with a C or higher and ACCUPLACER Arithmetic (238) or higher OR MATH 090 with a C or higher OR ABE 050 with a C or higher.
IT 141 A+ Operating Systems 5 CR
This course provides an introduction to PC Software in coordination with the CompTIA A+ Software high-level exam objectives. Topics include computer operating systems, basic networking utilities, computer security and application troubleshooting.
Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 MW 12:30 PM-1:50 PM Kevin Burkeland
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Kevin Burkeland
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 2
IT 112 A+ Hardware 5 CR
This course provides an introduction to PC Hardware in coordination with the CompTIA A+ Hardware high-level exam objectives. Topics include computer hardware systems, basic networking, mobile devices and troubleshooting.
Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 MW 9:00 AM-10:30 AM Mike Massey
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Mike Massey
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Th 9:00 AM-10:50 AM Mike Massey
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Mike Massey
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CAP 138 Microsoft Word 5 CR
Students receive hands-on instruction using the commands and features of Word to create simple to complex business documents. For off-campus work, a Windows-based computer is required.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Carolyn Haupt
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CAP 142 Microsoft Excel 5 CR
This course provides a practical hands-on approach to developing the skills to use the powerful spreadsheet application, Excel. Students will use Excel to organize and analyze data, perform numerical calculations, and illustrate relationships in numerical data by displaying charts. For off-campus work, a Windows-based computer is required.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Jeff Dowd
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 3

BUS& 101

Introduction to Business

5 CR

AENGL 100 Applied English 5 CR
This applied English course focuses on the workplace communication skills needed to send, receive, and process oral and written information. Along with a review of writing fundamentals, learners will use principles of clear communication, professionalism, and cultural awareness in occupational contexts. Learners will sharpen their reading, writing, and presentation skills.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 MW 10:00 AM-11:30 AM Jenna Gernand
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Jill Burns
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
BUS 191 Technical Communications 5 CR
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Marcia Pedersen
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 MWF 10:10 AM-11:30 AM Marcia Pedersen
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Marcia Pedersen
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
ENGL& 101 English Composition I 5 CR
A composition course in which students read, analyze, and write essays using a variety of rhetorical strategies, as well as develop and verbally express ideas clearly and effectively. The critical reading of essays will provide a basis for the student's own critical writing, which will reflect a command of college-level literacy standards. Attention to writing fundamentals and stylistic techniques will also be included. Word processing, email and internet knowledge required.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Jan Richards
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Jan Richards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
ENGL& 102 English Composition II 5 CR
Intermediate academic essay writing. Emphasis on critical reading and writing, synthesis of cross-disciplinary texts, documentation of sources and argumentation.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Jan Richards
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Jan Richards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communications 5 CR
Designed to introduce students to the application of basic interpersonal communication theory, with a focus on achieving success in the workplace. Topics explored include self-awareness, self-disclosure, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, assertiveness, teamwork and group dynamics, conflict management strategies, and communicating in a diverse world.
Future Offerings:
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 MW 12:30 PM-1:50 PM Jill Burns
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
PSYC& 100 General Psychology 5 CR
An overview of the factors affecting behavior including topics related to theories of learning, the senses, perceptions, nervous system, emotions, personality theory, motivation, abnormal behavior and therapy, and social psychology.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 T 1:10 PM-3:20 PM Molly Smith
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Molly Smith
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
OR
SOC& 101 Introduction to Sociology 5 CR
This course introduces the major concepts and definitions of the science of sociology. Basic sociological inquiry is covered, and how social forces shape communal and individual behaviors and attitudes. Topics include socialization, cultures, deviance, social control, inequality, power, social class, race, gender, and institutions. Students learn the basic theories and perspectives of sociology and how those theories apply to the social landscape.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Dale Pollard
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Dale Pollard
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 4
CAP 146 Microsoft Access 5 CR
This course introduces students to using Microsoft Access to manage data. Students learn and apply rules for table design, establish meaningful relationships between tables, create queries to analyze data, create forms for data entry and data search, and create reports that presents information in professional format.

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.

10 CR

Quarter 5

IT 120

Command Line Interface and Scripting

Quarter 6

IT 142

Windows Desktop I

5 CR

IT 270 Field-Based Experience 5 CR
Students will arrange to work in a college approved, information technology related, work environment. The field-based experience provides exposure to a typical work environment, opportunities for customer service and technical skill development, and mentorship by industry professionals.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 Greg Rehm
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-12/09/2022 Greg Rehm
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Greg Rehm
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Kevin Burkeland
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.

5 CR

Program Outcomes

After successfully completing this program, students will be able to:

Apply industry standard IT networking solutions to understand and troubleshoot networking issues.
Design and develop an IT Helpdesk disaster recovery plan.
Troubleshoot operating systems or software problems.
Design and develop a hardware-based user needs assessment.
Use a variety of scripting tools or languages to automate routine tasks.
Provide satisfactory helpdesk solutions to problems or scenarios with Word, Excel, Access, or PowerPoint using industry standard helpdesk procedures.
Provide efficient and effective IT technical support to clients in a manner that promotes safe computing practices and encourages effective working relationships.

Employment Outlook

Computer support positions are expected to be one of the fastest-growing jobs over the next decade. The rapid rate of growth and change in the tech industry requires a commitment to stay current with new technologies. Enhancing a Computer Support Specialist degree with industry-recognized certifications means BTC grads can compete for the best jobs in the software support industry.

Computer Support Specialist program graduates usually find jobs in the information support and IT departments of large organizations such as universities, government agencies, hospitals, financial institutions, and major corporations.

Program graduates also find jobs as telephone-based technicians and customer service representatives for hardware and software manufacturers. Other potential computer support jobs 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.

The average annual wage in the software and computer support field is $55,973, with an earning potential of about $69,680 per year.*

Faculty & Support

Mike Massey

Mike Massey graduated from Western Washington University, in 1985, with a combined Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science and Business Administration, and a minor in History. For the next 15 years he worked as a computer programmer (Dealer Information Systems), and as a database programmer, network administrator and IT Manager at Western Washington University (WWU). During that time he also obtained his commercial pilot license and float plane rating from Trinity Western University. Mike has been teaching Computer Networking at Bellingham Technical College since 2000. He is currently pursuing a degree in Biology at WWU.

Degrees and Credentials
WA Professional Technical Certification - 2001
CompTIA Network+ Certified - 2001
CompTIA A+ Certified - 2001
B.A., Business Administration/Computer Science, Western Washington University - 2001
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer - 2001

Gregory Rehm

Degrees and Credentials
Microsoft Certified Professional - 1997
B.S., Community Health Ed, Western Washington University - 1997
WA Professional Technical Certification - 1997
Network+ Certified Professional - 1997
Linux+ Certified - 1997
Certified Netware Administrator - 1997
A+ Certified Professional - 1997

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022			Marcia Pedersen
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	MWF	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Marcia Pedersen

Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022	T	12:00 PM-1:00 PM	Marcia Pedersen
Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	F	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Marcia Pedersen
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	F	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Marcia Pedersen
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	F	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Marcia Pedersen

Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	MW	9:00 AM-10:30 AM	Mike Massey
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023			Mike Massey
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	Th	9:00 AM-10:50 AM	Mike Massey
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023			Mike Massey

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022			Elizabeth Miller
Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-12/09/2022	T	10:30 AM-12:40 PM	Elizabeth Miller
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023			Elizabeth Miller
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	T	10:30 AM-12:40 PM	Elizabeth Miller

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	MW	10:00 AM-11:30 AM	Jenna Gernand
Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022			Jill Burns

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	Jan Richards
Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022	Jan Richards

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	T	1:10 PM-3:20 PM	Molly Smith
Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022			Molly Smith

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	Dale Pollard
Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022	Dale Pollard

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022			Kevin Burkeland
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	TTh	9:00 AM-10:50 AM	Kevin Burkeland
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	MW	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Mike Massey
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023			Mike Massey
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	TTh	9:00 AM-10:50 AM	Kevin Burkeland
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023			Kevin Burkeland

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022			Greg Rehm
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	MW	9:00 AM-10:50 AM	Greg Rehm
Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	TTh	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Greg Rehm
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023			Greg Rehm
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	MW	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Greg Rehm
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023			Greg Rehm

Computer Support Specialist

Computer Support Specialist

Computer Support Specialist - AAS

Employment Information

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 90

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Mike Massey

Degrees and Credentials

Gregory Rehm

Degrees and Credentials