Nov 27, 2024  
2014-2015 Catalog 
    
2014-2015 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Computer Application Specialist, A.A.S.


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Business and information technology fields continue to expand with the growing need for quality computer application specialists. The computer application specialist degree introduces students to foundational business theories and practices related to business planning, human relations, and management. The computer application specialist degree also introduces students to essential web design software, basic troubleshooting, help desk technical skills, and business-centered office applications such as, document processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software. This degree incorporates vendor certification training, specifically in Microsoft Office certifications, for students preparing for entry-level employment or career advancement in a variety of occupations within the business and information technology fields.

Program Overview

A student pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Application Specialist must complete the requirements for the general education core and the technology core. The student must then complete the requirements for the special track they have chosen. With the exceptional growth being experienced in the Eastern Panhandle, well-trained computer specialist support personnel are essential for business and industry. The Computer Application Specialist AAS degree provides students with the training needed for employment upon graduation.

Students completing the Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Application Specialist will understand and be able to demonstrate basic skills in writing, reading, math, and decision-making, basic desktop support skills, web page design skills, possess skills in business ethics, office management, and basic accounting procedures, possess skills in communication, word processing, spreadsheets, database management, presentations, publication design, and computerized accounting and successfully obtain employment within the ever-changing information technology field.

Career Opportunities

Students in the computer application specialist degree program complete hands-on activities that help develop computer application fluency, business theories, and fundamental technical skills. They complete project-based activities which will incorporate Internet research skills and electronic presentation skills to prepare for the work environment. Upon earning a degree, computer application specialist graduates may pursue entry-level employment in a variety of business, government, educational, and IT settings. A Blue Ridge training in business planning, human relations, management, web design, troubleshooting, and business office applications will add value to any workplace.

Note: All salary estimations are based on current position and educational trends. Blue Ridge and The School of Business and Information Technology cannot guarantee that the projections given will be the salaries students or graduates will ultimately receive.

Curriculum for an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Application Specialist


General Education Core 21
Technology Core 31
Restricted Electives 8
Total Credit Hours Required 60

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