COMPUTER SUPPORT SPECIALIST
Technical
CONTACT PERSON: Matt Frohlich • Armory 128 • 224-5581 • Matt.Frohlich@bsc.nodak.edu

The Bismarck State College Computer Support Specialist program provides two years of highly technical computer education, leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Students will prepare to work in various business and institutional settings. Their experiences at BSC will provide extensive training in computer operating systems, networking environments, and security.

BSC developed this program to fill a growing need in the marketplace. Technology is driving today’s businesses, especially health care, financial services, public utilities and sales. These businesses need computer and network specialists to upgrade equipment, maintain data networks, manage servers, and secure company IT resources. In addition to these technical skills, employers are seeking computer personnel who can communicate well with people, since these computer specialists work with end-users to solve problems and provide assistance.

Employment opportunities are expected to grow, as research shows computer-oriented careers are among the fastest growing in the country. In North Dakota, the computer and network administrator occupation is expected to increase significantly in upcoming years, making it one of the fastest-growing occupations in the state.

Career possibilities: Computer support specialist, computer technician, computer operator, help desk support, computer systems analyst, data communications analyst, systems administrator, security administrator, network administrator, network systems analyst, information systems manager

INFORMATION PROCESSING SPECIALIST
Associate in Applied Science
Technical - Online Option
CONTACT PERSON: Lynette Borjeson Painter • Armory 109 • 224-5755 • Lynette.BorjesonPainter@bsc.nodak.edu

The two-year program of study in Information Processing Specialist leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed to meet the ever changing technology of small businesses or corporate offices.

Computer technology has profoundly influenced the kinds of jobs available and the way work is organized and performed. Information Processing Specialist students must possess a variety of communication, business, keyboarding, and technological skills. Students receive concentrated training on various applications of the personal computer including keyboarding, word processing, database, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, electronic presentations, world wide web research, electronic publishing (creation of web pages), and operating systems.

Placement includes working as an information-processing specialist in government agencies, educational institutions, law offices, sales offices, service agencies, insurance companies, or bank and investment firms.

INFORMATION PROCESSING SPECIALIST
Certificate - Technical - Online Option
CONTACT PERSON: Lynette Borjeson Painter • Armory 109 • 224-5755 • Lynette.BorjesonPainter@bsc.nodak.edu

The curriculum is designed for students who want to upgrade their microcomputer application background. Students must complete 30 credits from the courses listed. Completion of the one-year program leads to a Program Certificate in Information Processing Specialist.