Why Pursue an Online Degree in Computer Training and Support?

If you have a desire to jump into the world of computer technology, there's a lot of training you may need to take. Technology can be an incredibly innovative field, and it takes constant and consistent learning to stay knowledgeable and aware. Moreover, there are several different realms of computer learning, including programming, troubleshooting, Web design and much more. If you want to pursue a career as a training and support specialist, you may have to learn just one skill. However, other job positions can often require additional learning.

For those who are not tech savvy, an online degree program could be incredibly beneficial. These guided learning courses allow students to follow certain computer curriculums step-by-step so you can have the opportunity to learn the most from the experience. With a sea of different programs, an entirely new coding language to discover and a limitless amount of details unique to the computer industry, becoming involved in an online program can better acquaint you with the minutia of the field.

A glimpse into the realm of computer training and support

At the most basic level, computer training and support specialists help other individuals learn about particular computer systems to achieve their goals. Most computer specialists, including IT professionals, enjoy the comfort of an office during their working periods. As a computer trainer, you may be encouraged to learn about particular programs, software systems and different forms of hardware particular to a certain field. As computer programming becomes more complex and available programs become more diverse, computer professionals must take charge in learning a plethora of diverse tools to cater to the demands of a constantly changing market.

Possible salaries for a career in computer training and support

Your potential salary as a computer professional depends largely on what career path you pursue, your education, your specific job responsibilities, and other factors. Individuals with more expertise in one facet of computer technology - programming, Web development, IT, software engineering and other skills - may earn a very different amount depending on their level of skill. Consider the following careers, with statistics compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

  • Computer systems analysts: 2012 Median annual salary of $79,680 (25 percent projected growth through 2022)[i]
  • Computer support specialists: 2012 Median annual salary of $48,900 (17 percent projected growth through 2022)[ii]
  • Computer Programmers: 2012 Median annual salary of $74,280 (8 percent projected growth through 2022)[iii]

Additional skills required for a career in counseling

Specifically, computer training and support specialists deal directly with people, helping others discover the basics to computer programs and more. Because these professionals deal frequently with individuals face-to-face, it's important that you can communicate well and explain complex ideas effectively. Some people have trouble learning about computers. For those individuals, computer training and support specialists are an incredibly valuable resource. This is the main segment of people you may cater to in the training and support field. That being said, having a passion for teaching and a great deal of patience is a plus.


[i] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm | [iii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm