Information Technology, A.S.

This program prepares a graduate, as an IT professional, to provide computer technology support to business and industry. Graduates are prepared to install, run, troubleshoot, and maintain the technology that allows computer systems to function successfully. This program focuses on industry mandated competencies. Several courses are guided by industry-aligned certificates. (Detailed program outcomes are attached.) As students progress through their coursework, they will be preparing for four industry-valued certifications. This program is available in online delivery only.

More information about this degree opportunity will be added soon. Until then, please contact Gary Messick, Associate Dean of Engineering and Computer Sciences, at 260.422.5561, ext. 2218, or GAMessick@IndianaTech.edu.

Student Learning Outcomes

Hardware

 

• Identify/Utilize internal computer and laptop components 
  • Include CPU, power supply, RAM, storage, expansion cards, motherboard/main board, system cooling, BIOS

     

• Understand and demonstrate the proper installation, configuration, and removal of common hardware components and peripherals
  • Includes all necessary operating system changes and driver installation

     

• Identify/Utilize basic peripherals
  • Include printers, display devices, audio device, input & output devices
• Compare and contrast common computer connector types
  • Include video, input/output, storage,  audio, network, power - AC & DC

     

• Describe the importance and impact of various environmental and safety concepts
  • Include proper component disposal methods,  electrical hazards, device environmental concerns (i.e. temp), electrostatic discharge concepts

     

• Compare and contrast the differences in the requirements of server grade hardware vs. workstation hardware
  • Including MTBF, tower case / rack mounting, blade servers/enclosures, RAID, hot-swap components

     

• Compare and contrast server roles and the relevant hardware requirements
  • Include Web server, domain controller, file/print, email, database, infrastructure

     

•  Evaluate and select appropriate components for a custom configuration, to meet customer specifications or needs.

   

•  Install and deploy primary storage devices based on given specifications and interfaces

 

Operating Systems

 

• Compare and contrast common Operating Systems and their functions and features

• Include  open source and commercial

   

• Basic functions of an operating system

   

  • Interface between user and machine
  • Coordination of hardware components
  • Provides environment for software to function
  • Monitors system health and functionality
  • Displays structure / directories for data management

     

• Virtualization
  • Physical machine vs. virtual machine
  • Purpose of virtual machines
  • Resource, Emulator, Security, and Network requirements

     

• Explain the basic methods of utilizing an operating system
  • Including executing programs, difference between shortcuts and files, manipulating files, navigate a file structure

     

• Basic installation and configure of an operating system using the most appropriate method
  • Understand and utilize command line utilities
  • Demonstrate an understanding of patch management

     

• Explain the differences between a workgroup and a domain / directory services

   

• Utilize GUI utilities for OS management and support
  • Including remote desktop and  Microsoft Management Console, Task Manager

     

• Compare and contrast the differences in the requirements of  a sever O/S deployment vs. a workstation installation
  • Including variations in file system, data partitions, file system configuration, user accounts, redundancy, security policies

     

•  Compare and contrast server roles and requirements
  • Include Web server, domain controller, file/print, email, database, infrastructure

     

• Describe comprehensive performance monitoring
  • Include baseline, trending, and failure detection

     

Software/Applications

 

• Identify, install, utilize, and troubleshoot common programs, or applications.

         Types

  • Productivity
    • Word processing
    • Spreadsheets 
    • Basic database 
    • Presentation
    • Personal Information Manager
  • Collaboration
    • Online workspace
    • Document storage/sharing
    • Instant messaging 
    • Email
  • Utility
    • Remote desktop
    • Anti-malware
    • firewalls
    • Diagnostic/maintenance 
    • Compression
  • Specialized 
    • CAD
    • Graphic design
    • Medical
    • Scientific
    • Financial
• Open source vs. commercial