help with computer diploma/degree question

Discussion in 'IT and Computer-Related Degrees' started by cookderosa, Sep 25, 2016.

Loading...
  1. cookderosa

    cookderosa Resident Chef

    First, I'm 100% unfamiliar with all types of computer training and education, so I'm counting on you guys to cut me some slack on this.

    A long time friend of ours wants to change careers and earn a certificate, diploma, or associates degree "in computers." It needs to be 100% online and financial aid eligible. He is not a great candidate for credit by exam, and doesn't care about the cost- because he plans to take out as many student loans as he can. :chairfall:

    After a couple days of going around with him about student loan debt, I've given up on that battle and have tried to send him a few potential programs. He messaged me back today that the programs I'm sending him are wrong - what I'm sending him are all variations of computer science. What he wants is:

    1) Computer Support Specialist
    2) Computer Technology
    3) Computer Support Technician

    Those are all quotes of the thing he wants to study from different parts of our conversation. As a non-computer person, I honestly have no idea if those titles all mean the same thing or if they're different.

    In any event, I *almost* stepped away until he messaged me and told me he found a perfect program at UoP. So, before I give up, I'd love to do a bit more research away from the for profits for him, but I'm kinda over my head. Can anyone suggest a program / school to consider? Is this the kind of field where Penn Foster might be a fit? I can tell you with 100% certainty he has no intention of getting a 4 year degree.
     
  2. nyvrem

    nyvrem Active Member

    this should be something he can take at a low cost

    http://learnondemand.kctcs.edu/en/Online-Programs/Programs/credentials.aspx?programId={DCF00022-1418-4A06-9F18-A71D6049A342}

    there's options to choose which paths he wants.

    i think he just wants a program that trains him to work in tech support - i might be wrong.
     
  3. cookderosa

    cookderosa Resident Chef

    Thanks nyvrem!
     
  4. jamesb

    jamesb New Member

    This is a tough question as the field is very broad. I'll assume it's an entry level position he is trying to go for. All that person needs is 1 class and get either an A+ or Microsoft cert. Most community colleges have an intro to computers class that is geared more towards the A+ route versus computer science.

    Another route is online learning through different MOOC, which of course is free and/or relatively low cost. Computer technology is probably the most online friendly field, which makes complete sense. Certifications are more important when trying to break in compared to formal education. A+ is to get his feet wet, but Microsoft certifications will get him into better jobs.

    To get a job is different than taking classes and hoping to land something. If he is really interested, he should join a local computer users group and it's likely that one of the members there will know of a job and help him along. The days of walking in with a cert and getting a job are gone, he has to compete with highly educated people from India so he needs to take advantage of "knowing people" to get an edge.
     
  5. Kizmet

    Kizmet Moderator

  6. AsianStew

    AsianStew Moderator Staff Member

    Cookderosa, I was going to suggest if you're going with Penn Foster, you can also add Ashworth to the list as both are Nationally Accredited with similar pricing and programs.

    However, the one posted by Nyvrem posted is probably the best of the bunch. I looked at the link and that school provides multiple options that are viable for the intended student.

    Anyways, good luck on either option you decide to provide them. If I was going to give them more info, I'll chuck all three options their way and have them figure it out! You can't always spoon feed them everything.
     
  7. cookderosa

    cookderosa Resident Chef

    Thanks everyone. I've forwarded everything his way and bowed out ;)

    PS Jamesb - I agree with you, but in his case, he WANTS the loans...I know....crazy.
     

Share This Page