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Certificate · Technology

Help Desk and Support Certificate

Businesses and organizations rely on help desk and technical support specialists to keep IT operations reliable. This certificate trains students to install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, operating systems, and networks while applying cybersecurity principles and ITIL service-management practices across Windows and Linux environments.

  • Certificate
  • 50 quarter credits
  • 1 year full-time
  • 100% online
Credits
50 quarter credits
Length
1 year full-time
Format
100% online
On-site support
6 CA & NV locations

About this certificate

Businesses and organizations rely on help desk and technical support specialists to keep IT operations reliable. This certificate trains students to install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, operating systems, and networks while applying cybersecurity principles and ITIL service-management practices across Windows and Linux environments.

  • Support hardware, operating systems, and networks for reliable end-user computing
  • Apply cybersecurity and system administration across Windows and Linux
  • Deliver IT support using troubleshooting and ITIL service-management practices

Where this certificate can take you

Graduates pursue roles such as:

  • Help Desk Technician
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Desktop Support Analyst

What you’ll study

Select any course to read its full catalog description. Courses are listed as they appear in the College Catalog, which governs.

Certificate curriculum 10 courses · 50 credits

  • ITS100Hardware Technology Fundamentals5 cr

    This course introduces the fundamentals of PC hardware, devices, and support. Students will explore the internal and external components of a modern computer, learn to install and configure Windows, prepare storage systems, and implement virtual machines using modern hypervisors. An emphasis is placed on the support of basic computer systems in both physical and virtual environments. The course aligns CompTIA A+ Core 1 objectives.

  • ITS110Operating Systems and Security5 cr

    This course builds on PC systems foundations by focusing on system administration, troubleshooting, and security practices. Students will learn to manage and configure Windows and Linux environments, utilize system tools, manage user access, configure networks, and implement secure practices. The course aligns with CompTIA A+ Core 2 objectives.

    Prerequisite: ITS100

  • ITS200Microsoft Endpoint Administrator5 cr

    This course provides students with the skills needed to install, configure, secure, and troubleshoot modern Windows client operating systems in an enterprise environment. Throughout the course, students will learn about Windows client deployment, identity and access management, device compliance, security policies, and troubleshooting strategies using Microsoft Intune, Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), and other enterprise tools. The course prepares students for client-focused IT support roles and aligns with Microsoft Endpoint Administrator certification objectives.

    Prerequisite: ITS110

  • ITS250Network Infrastructure and Operations5 cr

    This course provides a comprehensive foundation in modern networking, focusing on physical infrastructure, network addressing, switching, and routing fundamentals. Topics include the OSI model, TCP/IP, and basic network troubleshooting. The course aligns with objectives from the CompTIA Network+ certification.

    Prerequisite: ITS100

  • ITS310Linux Administration5 cr

    This course introduces students to Linux operating systems and their core components, including the Linux kernel and various distributions. Students will gain practical skills in installing and configuring Linux, managing file systems, administering users and groups, installing and updating software, and navigating different user interfaces. Additional topics include system startup and shutdown processes, enabling students to effectively manage and maintain Linux environments. The course is aligned to the CompTIA Linux+ objectives.

    Prerequisite: ITS110, ITS250 or ITS150, CYBR200

  • ITS420ITIL Foundations5 cr

    This course introduces ITIL® 4, the globally recognized framework for IT Service Management (ITSM). It covers key ITIL concepts, the four dimensions of service management, the Service Value System (SVS), and essential ITIL practices that support the effective delivery of IT services. The application of ITIL principles to improve service quality, efficiency, and alignment with business goals is emphasized. The course is aligned to ITIL® 4 Foundation certification objectives.

    Prerequisite: ITS11

  • CYBR200Python Programming Fundamentals5 cr

    This course introduces students to programming using the Python language. The course covers the basics of programming in Python including variables, expressions, loops, conditions, lists, strings, functions, and standard and file I/O. It also covers, at an introductory level, object-oriented programming and modular design principles.

  • CYBR205Cybersecurity Fundamentals5 cr

    This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of information security, focusing on protecting organizational assets and managing security risks. Students will explore key concepts such as confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as well as threat identification, vulnerability assessment, and risk mitigation strategies. Topics include security policies, access control, basic cryptography, network security, and incident response.

  • CYBR240Network Security Fundamentals5 cr

    This course introduces students to the core principles of cybersecurity with a focus on network threats, vulnerabilities, and secure network design. Students will explore malware types, secure communication protocols, network devices, and wireless security strategies. Emphasis is placed on threat identification, mitigation techniques, and the implementation of basic security controls in wired and wireless environments. The course aligns with objectives of CompTIA Security+ certification.

    Prerequisite: ITS250 or ITS150

  • CDV150Career Development5 cr

    This course introduces students to foundational concepts and practical skills in Career Development. Students will engage with core tools, methods, and industry practices to prepare for real-world applications. Course topics emphasize professional readiness and apply learning within the context of Career Development.

Total: 50 credits.

All certificate programs are 50 quarter credits and can be completed in one year of full-time study. For tuition and fees, request information or see the College Catalog (PDF). Review this certificate’s School Performance Fact Sheet (PDF), required by the California BPPE, before enrolling.

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