Clifton Campus Offers Information Technology Associate Degrees That Can Help

Almost every company in existence needs information technology professionals to help run and maintain their information systems. That is why the number of computer support specialist jobs is expected to increase over the next decade. Computer support specialists assist people with computer and information systems problems. They use problem-solving skills and good communication techniques to effectively resolve computer issues. According to recent data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, there is a high demand for Associate-degreed computer support specialists and computer specialists in Tennessee with annual median wages of $40,536 and $60,109 respectfully.

Preparing students for careers in the Information Technology field is the goal of Columbia State's Associate of Applied Science Degree Program in Business Information Technology. The program has a central core of courses with additional specialized courses in two options, computer systems and office systems. The computer systems program prepares students to assume information systems/technology responsibilities in any organization. Graduates of the program might be employed in positions such as: entry level programmer, computer operator, LAN manager, training and support specialist and computer software technician. The office systems option prepares students to meet the challenges of the modern workplace. Students will be exposed to many aspects of managing an office including leadership and supervision, accounting, business communication, record keeping, desktop publishing, computer networking, current operating systems and popular business applications.

A cohort for the fall 2010 semester is now being formed for the Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Information Technology at Columbia State's Clifton Campus. "I am very excited about the opportunity to offer this degree in Clifton," said Stephen Milligan, director of Columbia State's Clifton Campus. "There is a strong demand for information technology professionals which will likely increase as more businesses and organizations rely on technology to help run their businesses."

The program is designed to accommodate both traditional college students and adult students. The business information technology courses will be offered one night a week. The courses are designed to follow a prescribed sequence and students will rotate from one course to the other. This format allows students to meet their educational goals while juggling family and career responsibilities. For more information about the Business Information Technology program contact the Clifton Campus at 931-676-6966 or toll free at 888-346-6581 or visit our website www.columbiastate.edu/bustech.

Columbia State is a two-year college, serving a nine-county area in southern Middle Tennessee with locations in Columbia, Franklin, Lawrenceburg, Lewisburg, and Clifton. As Tennessee's first community college, Columbia State is committed to increasing access and enhancing diversity at all five campuses. Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents, the sixth largest education system in the nation. For more information, please visit www.columbiastate.edu.