Our Microsoft program will teach you how to do the job as a network administrator, network engineer, end-user support specialist, or help desk technician. In addition, our training will help to prepare you for industry certifications like MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional) and MCSA (Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator). These certifications lead toward an MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) certification.
Students in our Microsoft program will be assigned two hard drives for use in the hands-on training. You will begin your training by installing Windows Professional. Later, you'll install Windows Server and Active Directory on another drive. The focus of the program will depend on current corporate demands. Our training is hands-on to better prepare you for the job market.
Classes meet once per week or twice per week for a total of 3 to 5 hours weekly for a full semester. Plan on additional time outside of class to complete labs not finished in class.
Classes should be taken in the following order:
CPC 125: Windows XP Professional
CPC 202: Windows Server
CPC 225: Exchange Server
Students enroll on a class-by-class basis and are not required to take all classes. Classes may be canceled if there is insufficient enrollment. Open enrollment for the MCSA program occurs at the beginning of the fall semester on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Although interesting, these classes are challenging. In addition to class time and several additional hours working on labs outside of class, you should also plan to spend several hours outside of class studying on a weekly basis.
In addition, assessment exams over the material taught in the class may be given via computerized testing similar to certification exams. Students are required to take a skills-based final that may last several hours. These exams will cover the skills that Microsoft recommends you should have before attempting a certification exam.
Some students successfully pass certification exams without on-the-job experience. However, Microsoft recommends at least one year of on-the-job experience before attempting certification exams.
There are specific prerequisite skills necessary to begin the Microsoft program. Prerequisite classes may be waived if a student already has the required prerequisite knowledge. We also accept transfer credits and consider industry certifications in lieu of prerequisite classes.
Our training is targeted towards teaching you how to do the job. In addition, classes will help to prepare you for Microsoft certification exams.
Getting Started
Unless you've already taken CPT 115 and CPT 106, you'll need to come by to discuss a waiver of prerequisites. Many times a waiver is granted. Just drop Mike an email at mfuszner@stchas.edu to set up a time to stop by. You'll have a chance to talk about your background and experience, goals, take a brief tour, and prepare to sign-up for classes if it's the right thing for you.
Some classes fill up quickly. Students register on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is suggested that you register as soon as registration opens up each semester. Spring registration usually begins in late October; fall registration usually begins in early April. |
