Computer Support Specialist

Launch Your Robust IT Support Career with Industry-Leading Training

Student looking at the insides of a computer

Program Overview

Interested in becoming a skilled technician in computer support? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Computer Support Specialist program is designed to equip you with essential knowledge and skills for supporting desktop computers, wired and wireless networks, and document imaging devices, including printers and scanners. This comprehensive program enhances your understanding of computer hardware, software, networking, and virtualization. Upon completion, you will be prepared to earn  CompTIA A+, PDI+, Network+, and Security+ certifications. 

Along with hands-on experience on actual hardware, this program emphasizes soft skills, such as customer service and professionalism and is ideal for those seeking a deep dive into the technical aspects of computer support, with a focus on practical application and troubleshooting. As a graduate, you are well prepared for various roles in Information Technology (IT), with a strong background in hardware, networks, and cybersecurity.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Applied Science

Advanced Technical Certificate

Intermediate Technical Certificate

Time to Complete

1 – 2 years

Primary Location

Student working on the insides of a computer tower

Learning Opportunities

  • Extensive Hands-On Training: Experience real hardware installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
  • Certification Preparation: Ready yourself for important industry certifications valued by employers including CompTIA A+, PDI+, Network+, and Security+.
  • Soft Skills Development: Enhance your customer service and professional skills.
  • Comprehensive Technical Knowledge: Gain expertise in computer technology, networks, and cybersecurity.
  • Career Readiness: Finish the program with certifications and skills sought after by employers, including the Department of Defense.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Computer Support Specialist – Associate of Applied Science Degree

Computer Support Specialist – Advanced Technical Certificate

Computer Support Specialist – Intermediate Technical Certificate

Person with headset in an office smiling at a computer screen

Career Opportunities

  • Computer User Support Specialists

    Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems. Excludes “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).

    68

    Annual Openings*

    $22.63

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $47,070

    Annual Median Salary

    17.58%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers

    Repair, maintain, or install computers, word processing systems, automated teller machines, and electronic office machines, such as duplicating and fax machines.

    14

    Annual Openings*

    $17.50

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $36,400

    Annual Median Salary

    6.85%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

  • Computer Network Support Specialists

    Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption. Excludes “Computer Network Architects” (15-1241) and “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).

    12

    Annual Openings*

    $23.64

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $49,171

    Annual Median Salary

    32.63%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

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*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.

Admissions

Step 1

  • Apply to CWI.
  • Choose Computer Support Specialist as your major.

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Clubs

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Business Professionals of America

College of Western Idaho is proud to be part of Business Professionals of America (BPA), the leading Career and Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology, and other related career fields.

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SkillsUSA

College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.

News

Work-Based Learning Center is proud to host a Technology Job Fair on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Ada County Center Pintail Building.

Read more about Explore Exciting Opportunities at Technology Job Fair

Allied Business Solutions donates $5,000 to empower Information Technology students at CWI.

Read more about Donation Empowers Information Technology Students

Ada County Center hosts Super Smash Bros Wii U Tournament and Party with prizes, food and fun

Read more about First Annual CTE Super Smash Bros Smashfest

CWI students earned one gold medal, three runner-up finishes, and a third-place award at the Business Professionals of America National Conference.

Read more about CWI Students Rack up Awards at National Event

CWI earned 32 top-five finishes at the 2016 Idaho Business Professionals of America Leadership Conference.

Read more about CWI Students Score Big at BPA Competition
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