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Just the Facts
Entry: Fall or Spring
Length: 4 Semesters
Award: Associate of Applied Science
Admission Requirements
Admission to the college is granted to all individuals who are high school graduates or the equivalent; however some programs may require additional information for acceptance. We encourage you to review our Getting Started Checklist for specific requirements for admission.
Additional Requirements
The Computer Programmer's Aptitude Test (CPAT) indicates a student's probability of success in a computer related field. It is a timed test which includes pattern and sequence recognition, and basic math skills. This test is required for entrance into any of the Computer Studies department's two year programs at Iowa Western Community College. Total test time is one hour and the test is free to students.
For more information, visit the testing website.
Description
Do you enjoy working with computer hardware and operating systems? Do you have fun solving problems? If the answer is yes to these activities and you enjoy working with others, a career in Data Center Support may be for you. The area of study within this degree prepares students for careers in level 1 and level 2 helpdesk support, hardware support, operating system support using Linux, and networking.
Graduates of this two year program are awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree. Associate of Applied Science degree requirements may be found in the IWCC catalog.
Program Highlights
As a student in the Data Center Support program you will learn:
- Computer operating systems
- Database, Word processing, Spreadsheet, and Presentation software applications
- Basic Network terminology and configurations
- Data and tele communications
- Hardware configuration and repair
- Basic Web applications
Iowa Western Community College offers an environment which promotes hands-on learning with small class sizes. An open computer laboratory is available and furnished with current computing equipment.
Internships, which help improve your educational experience and knowledge, are available for qualified students.
Course Sequence
For recommended course sequence, please refer to the program guide.
Transfer Information
Students are encouraged to work closely with their academic advisor for transfer considerations. In most cases, it is beneficial for the student to choose a transfer college in the first year of study so course work can be aligned with the transfer college.
Career Information
The job market for graduates of this program is growing and trained individuals are in demand. Salaries for Data Center Support vary based on experience, education level and geographic location.
The Facility
Classrooms at Iowa Western have the latest technologies for faculty to deliver quality instruction. Iowa Western's spacious classroom and laboratory facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
Our wireless network also allows students to access the internet from virtually anywhere on campus.
Scholarships
Iowa Western Community College has many scholarship opportunities available for new and continuing students. We encourage you to take a moment to explore these options by visiting our Scholarship Page - the few minutes it takes to fill out the application may literally pay off.
There are four scholarships offered by Computer Studies department:
Name |
High School GPA |
$ Award per Semester |
|---|---|---|
Dennis E. Kirlin Gold |
3.00 |
$1,000 |
William R. Fleming Silver |
2.75 |
$750 |
Lowell E. Socolofsky Bronze |
2.50 |
$500 |
Computer Studies Scholarship |
2.00 |
$250 |
Applicants may apply using the IWCC scholarship application.
The scholarships will be awarded to students who will be full time for four semesters in one of the Computer Studies department's two year programs at IWCC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of degree will I earn at Iowa Western if I enroll in this program?
Graduates of this program earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Upon completion, graduates will be qualified to enter the work force immediately.
What is the job outlook for Data Center Support graduates?
The demand for qualified workers is above average.
Do I need any special equipment for the program?
Computer labs are available at IWCC. In some instances, it may be more convenient for students to have their own computer but it is not required.
Come See For Yourself
It is important to research the program you would like to study and school you would like to attend, but it is equally important that you experience both before making your selection. So, we encourage you to come experience our program at Iowa Western yourself by scheduling a visit or attending a program day. You will see for yourself what the students, the faculty, and the program are all about.
Testimonials
"My experience at the Iowa Western Information Technology Center has been an interesting and challenging experience. I have had the chance to take what I have learned in the classroom and apply it to real world problems. One unique aspect of working in the ITC is the variety of work from day to day or even hour to hour. Everyday it seems there is a new challenge to take on; whether it is troubleshooting an error message no one has seen before, or whether it is putting a new fuse in a laser printer. I look forward to continuing to learn from my internship, all while helping someone along the way." Patrick Palmer, 2006
"The great part of Iowa Western's College is the great amount of interactivity that the students get from the teachers because it is a smaller college. Extra help is always available and it really helps bring out the experience some more and make the students learning at the college an easy one. One of Iowa Western's strong points is its technical programs offering state-of-the-art facilities and technology, as well as offering hands-on experience." Christopher Pike, 2005
Return to the Iowa Western Community College / Academic Program Page
Program Chair
William Barrett
800-432-5852, ext. 3271
Admissions Office
800-432-5852, ext. 3277