Computer Technology

What Can I Do With A Major In Computer Technology?

Students in the Computer Technology Program prepare for careers in the field of Information Technology. Students select an option in Network Management or Information Systems Management, earning the Associate of Applied Science Degree upon successful completion. Students receive a well-rounded technical background in computer hardware, operating systems, software development, Internet technologies, networking/telecommunications, and application software. Students benefit from coursework which reinforce skills in business principles, professionalism, technical writing and oral presentation.

Faculty with credentials from Cisco, Microsoft, Novell, and CompTIA conduct advanced technical courses using official industry curriculum. Opportunities exist for students to pursue numerous professional certifications. All students acquire work-related skills through an internship experience. The combination of a post-secondary degree, industry-based professional certification and work-related experience make graduates extremely marketable. The University of Montana, College of Technology is a Cisco Regional Training Center and a member of the Computer Technology Industry Association.

The Network Management Option prepares students for careers as Network Technicians, Network Administrators, PC Field Technicians, and Help-Desk Engineers. Students receive a foundation in networking technologies found in the business environment. The program prepares students to support LAN/WAN devices and services. Students install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot cabling, NICs, hubs, switches, bridges, and routers in multi-protocol networks. Students perform network administrative tasks on client PCs and servers. Students install, implement, and manage enterprise directory and infrastructure services. Opportunities exist for students to earn professional certification from Cisco (CCNA, CCNP ), Microsoft (MCP, MCSA), and CompTIA (A+, Network+, Security+).

The Information Systems Management Option prepares students to implement information technology in the business environment. Students analyze business requirements and design technology-based solutions to business problems. The program provides students with a foundation in business principles, accounting, management, and training techniques. Students install, upgrade, maintain, optimize, and trouble-shoot PC hardware and software. Students develop, create, and maintain databases, print-based media, and web-based media. Graduates from the program enter careers in business PC support, developing software and hardware solutions, training and supporting users, and presenting business solutions. Opportunities exist for students to earn professional certification from CompTIA (A+) and Microsoft (MCP).

A Sample of Related Occupations

Types of Employers

Related Web Links

• The University of Montana-College of Technology Computer Technology
• Cisco Academy
• Computer Technology Industry Association
• Microsoft Training and Certification
• U.S. Department of Labor Job Outlook
• Directory of Salary Surveys on the Web

Professional Associations

• Computing Technology Industry Association
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• IEEE Computer Society
• System Administrators Guild
• Advanced Computing Systems Association

For additional career information, see the Occupational Outlook Handbook