Computer Information Systems

Why Information Technology

Do you like to solve problems? Enjoy gadgets and staying ahead of the curve? Then a career in IT might be just the fit for you!

IIT jobs are fast-paced and challenging. As the field is constantly changing, IT professionals work to develop new skills to enhance their career.
IT is at the heart of every major business and institution, from hospitals and universities to entertainment studios and banks. Job opportunities are booming and you can start your tech career path with Cabrillo College's Computer Information Systems (CIS) programs. IT includes rapidly emerging and evolving computer hardware, software, networking, telecommunications, Internet, programming, and information systems technologies. CIS courses allow students to update job skills or prepare for careers in IT as well as transfer to four-year institutions.

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A career in Computer Information Systems might be right for you if you:

  • Like gadgets

  • Like to solve problems

  • Enjoy saving the day

  • Don't get overwhelmed by complex situations

  • Have a great imagination

  • Are a good listener

  • Naturally multi-task

  • Are a team-player

  • Pay attention to details

  • Like staying ahead of the curve

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What is IT?

Information Technology(IT) is at the heart of every major business and institution, from hospitals and universities to entertainment studios and banks. IT Professionals typically work in a business environment supporting and installing computer systems, applications and internal networks, and perhaps programming.

Computer Science is focused on creating usable computer programs and applications and the theories behind those processes. It requires an in-depth knowledge of computers, programming languages, and computer science theory. Computer Science employees likely will be doing a lot of independent work applying complex algorithms and writing code.

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What Education Do I Need to Work in IT?

The majority of employers prefer candidates to have a bachelor's degree. Because of the wide range of skills used in different computer support jobs, there are many paths into the occupation. A bachelor's degree is required for some applicants applying to computer support specialist positions, but an associate's degree or postsecondary classes may be enough for others.

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Information Technology (IT) Associate in Science (A.S.)

According to Statista, the number of internet of things (IoT) connected devices worldwide will be 38.6 billion by 2025.The demand for skilled Information Technology employees will sky rocket. Networking, security, storage, and cloud programming will be highly marketable skills. CIS students improve their career prospects by gaining the skills needed in the IT industry.

Cabrillo College's Computer Information Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree prepares students to work in the Information Technology (IT) industry, specifically in network and system administrator, computer support specialist, information security analyst, computer network support specialist, and network and computer systems administrator. Courses include networking concepts and theory, network infrastructure administration including the Cisco Systems CCNA/CCNP courses, system and network administration using Unix/Linux and Microsoft operating systems, network security, network management, virtualization, storage technologies, and emerging technologies. Various certificate and degree options are available, including courses which transfer to four-year universities for those students pursuing a bachelor degree.

The IT program offers various certificate and degree options to prepare you for a career in computer networking and systems administration, update your IT skills, or transfer to a four-year institution.

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Computer Support Specialist (CSS)

The Computer Support Specialist (CSS) program at Cabrillo prepares students for a career in the field of computer technical support. Courses provide hands-on experience with computer hardware and software, basic networking and help desk concepts. Computer Support Specialist (CSS) program emphasizes communication skills, which are critical to success in this field.

This program helps prepare students for CompTIA certification exams like the A+, Network+ and Security+. CompTIA is the world's largest developer of vendor-neutral industry certification exams. Many employers value CompTIA certifications. Seventy-four percent of ICT managers say a CompTIA certification is an important factor in considering an employee for a promotion.

Want to learn more?

Check out our Getting Started page or talk with an Academic Counselor by emailing or calling the department to schedule an appointment at 831-479-6274.