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

68% BTC graduate placement rate

$48,277 starting annual wage
$61,090 average annual wage
$76,918 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 2017-18 and 2019-20. 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.

²Whatcom County and WA State wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2021 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates and reflect 2018-21 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 = 50th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

Estimated Program Costs
Estimated costs based on 6 quarters to complete this program
The first quarter of study will likely be more expensive as students pay for materials needed to start the program.
Average Tuition and Fees per Quarter: $1,800
Average cost per credit: $120
Total Tuition and Fees: $10,800
Total Tools: $158 - $280
Total Materials: $15 - $20
Total Clothing: $15
Average annual cost of living in Bellingham
Living expenses (housing and food): $16,512
Transportation: $1,935
Miscellaneous/Personal: $1,800
TOTAL: $20,247

Tuition Fees and Rates overview page

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

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

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 relevant technical applications and the use of a calculator.
Prerequisites:
ACCUPLACER Arithmetic (230) or higher or ABE 050 with a C or higher or approved alternative placement criteria.

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM	Hegeberg	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MW	8:30 AM-9:50 AM	Johnson	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Johnson	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Hegeberg	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	TTh	10:30 AM-12:40 PM	Hegeberg	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	2:10 PM-3:30 PM	Johnson	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Johnson	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MWF	8:30 AM-9:50 AM		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.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

Or Higher

BIT 100

Survey of Business and Information Technology

2 CR

IT 101

Using Network Computer Systems

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

BUS& 101

Introduction to Business

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.
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.

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	Th	8:00 AM-10:10 AM	Gordon	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM	Gordon	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Richards	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Bracy	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	TTh	8:00 AM-10:10 AM	Burns	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Burns	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Richards	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	Th	8:00 AM-10:10 AM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM		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.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

BUS 191

Technical Communications

5 CR

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.
Prerequisite:
ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension score of 85 or RDG 085 with a C or higher, AND ACCUPLACER Sentence Skills score of 86 or ENGL 092 with a B or higher or AENGL 100 with a C or higher

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Gordon	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MW	8:30 AM-9:50 AM	Gordon	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Bracy	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	TTh	1:10 PM-3:20 PM	Gordon	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	8:30 AM-9:50 AM	Gordon	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Richards	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Bracy	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MWF	10:10 AM-11:30 AM		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.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	Th	10:30 AM-12:40 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

ENGL& 102

English Composition II

5 CR

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.
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.

Current & Future Offerings:

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MWF	10:10 AM-11:30 AM	Burns	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Burns	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Burns	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.
09/26/2023-12/05/2023	T	10:30 AM-12:40 PM	Zamora	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	8:30 AM-9:50 AM	Zamora	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	TTh	1:10 PM-3:20 PM	Burns	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Burns	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Smith	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MWF	2:10 PM-3:30 PM		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.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	T	10:30 AM-12:40 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

Introduction to Sociology

5 CR

Quarter 4

CAP 146

Microsoft Access

3 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.

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.
Prerequisite:
IT 240 or IT 242 both with a D or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:

5 CR

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year closest to the year started, without going over, to see program requirements for a student who started the program that year:

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

Gregory Rehm

Degrees and Credentials
Certificate, Network+ Certified Professional
Certificate, A+ Certified Professional
Certificate, Certified Netware Administrator
BS, Community Health Ed, Western Washington University
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State
Certificate, Linux+ Certified
Certificate, Microsoft Certified Professional

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
BA, Business Administration/Computer Science, Western Washington University
Certificate, CompTIA A+ Certified
Certificate, CompTIA Network+ Certified
Certificate, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State
MA, Biology, Miami University

Contacts

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

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Newton	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MWF	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Peng	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.
	Find in ctcLink

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	W	2:30 PM-3:50 PM	Camden	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Miller	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	T	2:30 PM-3:20 PM	Camden	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.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Camden	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	F	12:30 PM-1:50 PM		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.

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MW	9:00 AM-10:50 AM	Massey	Face to Face
LAB			Massey	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	TTh	12:30 PM-2:20 PM	Massey	Face to Face
LAB			Massey	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	2:30 PM-4:20 PM	Massey	Face to Face
LAB			Massey	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.
	Find in ctcLink

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023				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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Camden	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MW	2:10 PM-3:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023	MW	12:30 PM-1:20 PM	Murphy	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024				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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/06/2023	MW	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Smith	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Smith	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.
09/20/2023-12/08/2023			Smith	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024	MW	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Smith	Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
	Find in ctcLink
01/03/2024-03/22/2024			Smith	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024	MW	2:10 PM-3:30 PM		Hybrid Synchronous
This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
04/02/2024-06/21/2024				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.

Fall 2023
09/20/2023-12/08/2023		Pollard	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.
Winter 2024
01/03/2024-03/22/2024		Pollard	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.
	Find in ctcLink
Spring 2024
04/02/2024-06/21/2024			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.

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

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Gregory Rehm

Degrees and Credentials

Mike Massey

Degrees and Credentials

Contacts