Essential Information
Students who would like to take continuing education courses on specific IT topics as part of an undergraduate degree program may consider an associate or a bachelor's degree in information technology or computer science. Some schools of continuing education also offer professional development certificate programs designed to provide students with an introduction to information technology. Students who already possess a bachelor's degree and would like to study information technology may consider a field-specific graduate certificate or degree program.
Here is an outline of common concepts learned in information technology courses:
- Business and social impact of information technology
- Data programming
- Network management
- Hardware and software design
- Web programming
List of Typical Information Technology Courses
Fundamentals of Information Technology Course
Students in this introductory course review the history and explosive growth of computer-based technology. They learn how computers have become a part of today's knowledge-based society and are used in nearly every industry. This course looks at the jobs performed by information technology professionals and the various training, skills and positions available in this industry.
Essential Computer Technology Course
Students learn about the basic function and components of computers. Individuals are taught how to build and disassemble computers, install operating systems and perform hardware and software upgrades. This course also teaches participants how to troubleshoot common firmware and hardware problems.
Basic Web Design Course
Basic webpage design, including graphic and information design, accessibility and usability, is discussed in this course. Students learn how to embed graphics and use cascading style sheets, computational tools and other technologies to create interactive webpages. This class examines the websites of colleges, corporations and individuals to evaluate design concepts. Participants are taught how to enhance webpage design utilizing graphics, text, audio and video.
Information Security Course
This course examines how information security safeguards computers, networks, servers and other electronic equipment. Students explore the role of IT security and the importance of analyzing equipment for security weaknesses. The development of policies and procedures to address physical, viral, computer and network threats is covered.
Basic Networking Course
Students gain training in basic networking for local area networks, workstations, wide area networks and other areas, including the Internet. This course reviews standard network operating systems. The curriculum can help prepare individuals for professional Network+ certification examinations.
IT Ethics and the Law Course
This course reviews the ethical concerns raised by the rapid growth of information technology. Students review topics such as intellectual property, file sharing, Internet crime, privacy and social responsibility. Participants learn how IT industry professionals tackle ethical issues within the daily course of their work.
