Center for Continuing Studies - Innovative Leadership for Lifelong Learning

Computer technician

Computer Technician (6 month program access)

CompTIA A+ certification validates foundation-level knowledge and skills necessary for a career in IT support. It is the starting point for a career. The international, vendor-neutral certification proves competence in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting.

CompTIA A+ certified technicians also have excellent customer service and communication skills to work with clients. 

Two exams are necessary to be certified: CompTIA A+ exam code 220-801; and CompTIA A+ exam code 220-802.

CompTIA A+ Essentials measures the necessary competencies of an entry-level IT professional with a recommended 500 hours of hands-on experience in the lab or field. It tests for technical understanding of computer technology, networking and security, as well as the communication skills and professionalism now required of all entry-level IT professionals.

CompTIA A+ Practical Application is an extension of the knowledge and skills identified in CompTIA A+ Essentials, with more of a "hands-on" orientation focused on scenarios in which troubleshooting and tools must be applied to resolve problems.

Candidate job roles include technical support specialist, field service technician, IT support technician, IT support administrator and IT support specialist. CompTIA A+ is part of the certification track for corporations such as Microsoft, HP and Cisco. Other technology companies, including Dell, Intel, Lenovo and Ricoh, have made CompTIA A+ certification mandatory for their service technicians. The U.S. Department of Defense recognizes CompTIA A+ and the Department of Homeland Security requires it as part of their computer forensics program.

Computer Technician Brochure (PDF)

Computer Technician FAQs (PDF)

Computer Technician Competencies (Word Document)

Computer Technician Program Syllabus (Word Document)

The CompTIA A+ certification is accredited by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The CompTIA A+ certification may be kept current through the CompTIA Continuing Education program.

Taking the Test

You can purchase a voucher for your exam or you can pay with a credit card when you register to take the test at one of CompTIA's testing partners. Vouchers are available from the CompTIA Marketplace. Please ask us about CompTIA Authorized Partner Program - we may be able to sell you a voucher!

Register for your CompTIA exam through Pearson VUE testing centers. The CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals exam is also offered at Certiport testing centers.

1. Visit their site to find the closest testing center to you.
2. Create an online account to register for the exam and store your information with the testing center.
3. Schedule the exam online. You can also register by phone or by contacting the testing center directly. You will be required to enter your voucher number or provide payment information at registration.
4. You will receive e-mail confirmation of your registration including any additional details you may need from the testing center.

Please visit the Pearson VUE website's testing center locator page to locate a testing center nearest to you.  St. Cloud State University is a testing site.

Program Flyer (PDF)

Program Cost:  $1650

Includes course materials, program access, textbooks, and shipping

To Enroll please call: (877) 225-7151

Please mention you are enrolling through St. Cloud State University.  This will ensure you receive a certificate from SCSU upon successful completion of the program.

Tuition Payment Plans

Please contact Tammy at 320.308.4252 or Tammy@SCSUTraining.com if you have any questions.

Additional Online Programs We Offer:

Administrative Assistant

Inpatient/Outpatient Coding and Billing

Medical Administrative Assistant

Medical Transcription

Medical Transcription Editor

Outpatient Medical Coding and Billing

Pharmacy Technician