Job Roles Program Description The Microcomputer Systems Technician program provides detailed hardware and software training to students with little or no computer background. It is designed to prepare students for an entry level position as a computer technician or a computer support professional providing desktop or call centre support.  Students receive detailed coverage of PC hardware technology that progresses through installing and configuring operating systems, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Students configure and administer networks and connect these networks to an Internet Service Provider using a SOHO, small office/home office model. This model incorporates NAT, DHCP, firewalls and network and wireless security using SOHO switch/routers. Networking topics such as the OSI and TCP/IP model are covered using Cisco authorized curriculum. Students are concurrently enrolled in the Cisco online Academy. Credits obtained through the Cisco Academy are readily transferable and are internationally recognized. Labs are very well equipped and students receive a very high percentage of hands-on skill based training to support the curriculum Completion of the program will assist students in preparing to write industry standard exams such as Linux, CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Professional, and the first Cisco CCNA exam. The cost of the certification exams is not included in the tuition but students are eligible for discount vouchers. Students interested in obtaining credit for skills obtained in work experience or courses completed in other recognized institutions may obtain a portfolio guide from the course area to assist in the Recognition of Prior Learning process. Entrance Requirements Applicants should be currently enrolled in or have successfully completed credits or equivalent standing from a Canadian school in: Grade 11 Math (30S) Grade 11 English Language Arts (30S) For further information regarding entrance requirements and the Mature Student option to the College, please refer to the admission/application process.   Program Length/Start Dates/Location: Full-time students - 9.5 months Class hours - day (8:30 am-3:30 pm) Location - Henlow Campus Start Dates - September (If space is available, another intake will be integrated into the class.) High School Students Only: Half-time students - 5 credits - 10 months Class hours - afternoon (12:30 pm to 3:30 pm) Location - Pembina Campus Start Dates - September and February Work Practicum Full-time students: This program features a Work Practicum placement in the computer industry to provide students with relevant practical experience. The placement enables students to apply the skills learned in the classroom, learn on-the-job procedures and develop valuable job contacts. Employment Opportunities Excellent employment opportunities exist in Manitoba for students with strong employability skills.  Graduates of the program usually find employment as computer technicians, desktop and call centre support technicians. Opportunities also exist as customer service representatives and support personal with companies selling and servicing computer equipment. 2010/2011 Tuition Fee/Costs* Tuition: $4,200.00 Books: (issued by instructor) $400.00 Total Due: $4,600.00 Additional Student Purchase Supplies: $250.00 *Tuition may be subject to change. Course Content - Microcomputer Systems Technician Course Code Grade Level Course Name Course Requirement(s) MS-011 8449 30S Basic Technical Applications (IT Essentials A) Basic Technical Applications presents an in-depth exposure to computer hardware and operating systems. Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as suggested best practices in maintenance and safety issues. None MS-021 8896 30S Basics and Troubleshooting (IT Essentials B) A continuation of MS-011, Basics and Troubleshooting introduces customer support strategies and advanced topics such as PC hardware and software troubleshooting. In addition topics on networks and communication skills are included. MS-011 MS-031 8447 30S Communication Systems (Discovery 1) Fundamental networking concepts and technologies used in networking and the Internet are introduced using tools and hardware commonly found in the home and small business environment. Students develop the skills necessary to plan and implement small networks across a range of applications. None MS-041 8899 40S Networking Technology (Discovery 2) This course prepares students for jobs as network technicians and helps them develop additional skills required for computer technicians and help desk technicians. It provides a basic overview of routing and remote access, addressing, and security. It also familiarizes students with servers that provide e-mail services, Web space, and authenticated access. MS-031 MS-051 8893 30S Operating Systems 1 (Windows Workstation) This course covers the installation, deployment, and troubleshooting of Microsoft Windows XP Professional. The hands-on approach will prepare students to face the real life challenges of a Microsoft networking professional and assist students in preparing for the MCSE certification exams. None MS-061 8895 30S Advanced Operating Systems (Windows Server) A continuation of MS-051, Advanced Operating Systems covers users and permissions, security, server services such as DNS, DHCP, and Active Directory. The hands-on approach will prepare students to face the real life challenges of a Microsoft networking professional and assist students in preparing for the MCSE certification exams. 8896 MS-071 8455 40S Troubleshooting and Repair Troubleshooting hardware, software, and network problems is one of the most difficult challenges for students. To develop these skills, students will complete advanced labs assisting them with the concept of logical troubleshooting. These labs cover topics in hardware, operating systems, and networking. Students will test their skills on a series of troubleshooting scenarios. MS-021, MS-041, MS-061, MS-081 MS-081 8898 40S Troubleshooting Personal Computers (Linux Basics) Linux is rapidly becoming the operating system of choice in many core areas of business. Students must be able to install, deploy, and troubleshoot Linux as a desktop and basic server operating system. To avoid confusion between the many flavors of Linux, each with its own GUI, students work with the command line to complete the necessary tasks. None MS-091 8894 30S Application Software (Technical Writing) Students cover the basics of good technical communication and will complete letters and short reports in a workshop environment using an office application suite. The basics of good sentence structure and acceptable grammar, spelling, and punctuation are included. Students will complete resumes and cover letters which will be used for their Work Practicum placement. None MS-101 8897 40S Customer Service Skills (Work Practicum) The 360 Hour Work Practicum is available to all students who successfully complete all academic courses and demonstrate acceptable employability skills. Students prepare for their Work Practicum by completing resumes and cover letters in the Technical Writing portion and interviewing successfully for their placement. Completion of all courses listed above. 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