Computer Technician School in Grand Junction

12 to 18 Month* Hands-On Computer Systems Technician Training Programs

An IntelliTec College Computer Systems Technician student works on a CPU

Put your analytical, problem-solving brain to work and build a rewarding career in the busy IT industry as a Computer Systems Technician

Become the backbone of today’s companies with IT training. Combine your people skills with your interest in computer technology to become a successful Computer Systems Technician. You will learn how to problem solve, evaluate network or system performance, and communicate clearly with other administrators and co-workers.

IntelliTec College’s Hands-On Computer Systems Technician Training Programs offer comprehensive cybersecurity education to prepare students for the critical field of information security. These programs provide practical, real-world experience in identifying and mitigating digital threats, implementing robust security protocols, and safeguarding sensitive data across networks and systems. The curriculum covers key topics such as encryption, access control, security policies, and compliance regulations. Students emerge well-equipped to protect organizations from ever-evolving cyber threats and pursue rewarding careers as cybersecurity specialists, network security administrators, or information security analysts.

IntelliTec College CST/CNST Graduates have been hired by the government, military, & private sectors.


How will IntelliTec College prepare me for my Computer Systems Technician Career?

The computer industry continues to demand educated IT personnel with marketable skills. Learn specialized career skills including:

  • Building, upgrading, maintaining, diagnosing & troubleshooting computer hardware & software
  • Designing, implementing, and managing network infrastructure
  • Utilizing troubleshooting techniques and tools to effectively and efficiently resolve computer operating system issues, solve systems and network connectivity issues, and implement security practices
  • Installing, configuring, administering, and managing server systems
  • Operating and administering computer systems running on Microsoft Windows and Linux platforms, including writing scripts in a shell environment
  • Understanding network security fundamentals
  • Developing end-user support knowledge and processes

*Program length when completed as designed.

If you’re searching for computer technician schools in Grand Junction or wondering how to start an IT career in Colorado, IntelliTec College is here to help. Many students look for local programs that teach real-world skills in computer systems, networking, and tech support.

Our Grand Junction campus serves students from across western Colorado who are ready to take the next step in the technology field. Whether you’re just exploring your options or know you want to work in IT, our team is available to answer your questions and help you move forward with confidence.

What Does a Computer Systems Technician Do?

A Computer Systems Technician (CST) is responsible for setting up Internet connections, establishing different types of networks like LAN (local area network) or WAN (wide area network) for bigger organizations and connecting them. CSTs are also responsible for establishing and keeping routers and servers functioning and continuing to provide support for the company. They ensure systems are functioning and when systems malfunction, they have to find solutions quickly without paralyzing the other computers and equipment in the network. They may also provide help and advice to people and organizations using computer software or equipment.

When Do Computer Systems Technicians Usually Work?

Most workers have full-time work schedules; however, many do not work typical 9-to-5 jobs. Because computer support is important for businesses, many employees must be available 24 hours a day. As a result, working nights or weekends is likely.

Career Opportunities in Computer Systems Technology

Computer Systems Technicians could find employment in the following positions:

  • Information Technology Associate
  • Help Desk Support Specialist
  • PC Support Technician or Specialist
  • Technical Field Support Specialist
  • Network Systems Administrator (junior level)
  • Computer Systems Administrator
  • Network Technician
  • Networking Administrator
  • Mobile Device Specialist
  • Information Security/Assurance Analyst (entry-level)
  • and more!

Computer Systems Technician Salary Potential

IntelliTec College provides career-training programs for entry-level positions. Salaries vary depending on geographic location, economic conditions, and willingness to relocate. Salaries by occupation and specific location can be found on the O*NET website. National figures for labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy are available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can also visit the campus career services department to learn where IntelliTec College graduates work and the beginning salaries in their respective careers.

How Is the Job Outlook?

According to O*Net Online, job opportunities for Computer Network Support Specialists have a bright outlook.  Between 2023 and 2033, the projected growth is 6 to 8 %, which is faster than average. 

 

(** Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/15-1231.00, Accessed April 24, 2025)


Get All the Important Details

Computer Systems Technician Certificate Program

Upon successful completion of this certificate program, the graduate should possess skills and knowledge required for employment as an entry-level Information Technologist, functional in a wide array of technological environments, such as helpdesk technician, computer systems/desktop support technician, and network systems administrator at the junior level, in a variety of operating environments.

Students will prepare for and can take the following exams:

  • CompTIA Tech+
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Linux+
  • CompTIA Server+

Locations:

Program length: 12 months*

Award: Certificate

Credit hours: 61.5

 


 

Computer Network Systems Technician: Administration Associate Degree Program

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will possess skills and knowledge required for employment as an Information Technologist, functional in a wide array of technological environments, such as help desk technician, computer systems/desktop support technician, and network systems administrator, in a variety of operating environments.

Students will receive the opportunity to sit for the following certifications:

  • CompTIA Tech+
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Linux+
  • CompTIA Server+
  • CompTIA Cloud+
CompTIA Transformation Award Badge

Locations:

Program length: 18 months*

Award: Occupational Associates Degree

Credit hours: 91.5

Through your coursework at IntelliTec College, you will grow many vital skills that will help you thrive in the computer technology field. You will:

  • Take advantage of hands-on IT training in a computer lab from a CompTIA Authorized Academy
  • Receive entry-level IT skills and training to become part of an IT problem-solving department – or work individually for a smaller business
  • Complete courses aligned with industry-recognized certification objectives
  • Receive personalized instruction from qualified instructors centered on your success
  • Prepare to sit for CompTIA Tech+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Certified Professional, CompTIA Server+, and CompTIA Linux+ while working through the certificate portion of the program.  Additionally, those in the degree program can also take the CompTIA Cloud+ exam.  

Here’s what will you learn in the Computer Systems Technician Certificate program:

CN-100 Introduction to IT Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): NA

The student will learn the necessary information to identify and explain basic computer components, set up a basic workstation, conduct basic software installation, establish basic network connectivity, identify compatibility issues, and identify/prevent basic security risks.

CN-101 Computer Systems Hardware
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course will provide the student with the knowledge to identify hardware compatibility, install, upgrade, troubleshoot and repair, and maintain personal computer systems. Students will develop their ability to understand computer architecture, diagnose faults, install operating systems, network, and maintain PC level security. This course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA A+ Hardware examination.

CN-102 Computer Systems Software
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course will provide skills required to install, configure, upgrade, and maintain PC workstations, various operating systems, and SOHO networks. Students will utilize troubleshooting techniques and tools to effectively and efficiently resolve PC, OS, and network connectivity issues and implement security practices. Students will also learn the concepts of good customer service and help center documentation, the course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA A+ Software examination.

CN-110 Networking Principles
Prerequisite(s): CN-101 and CN-102, or current CompTIA A+ Certification

After successful completion of this course, the students should be able to troubleshoot, configure, and manage common network wireless and wired devices, establish basic network design and connectivity, understand and maintain network documentation, identify network limitations and weaknesses, and implement network security, standards, and protocols. The student should have a basic understanding of emerging technologies including unified communications, mobile, cloud, and virtualization technologies.

CN-115 Server Administration
Prerequisite(s): CN-110 or current CompTIA Network+ Certification

This course will provide the student with the knowledge to install, manage, and troubleshoot servers. The student will be exposed to proper server security controls, troubleshooting common server problems, and key disaster recovery, high availability, and backup concepts. This course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA Server+ examination.

CN-120
Prerequisite(s): CN-110 or current CompTIA Network+ Certification

This course will provide the student with the foundational knowledge of the Linux operating system environment. The student will be exposed to file operations, shell script programming, as well as installation of different Linux operating systems, packages, and applications. The course is designed to begin preparing the student for the LPI Linux Essentials examination.

CN-125 Network Security
Prerequisite(s): CN-101, CN-102 and CN-110 or CompTIA Network + and A+ Certifications

This course will provide the student with the foundational knowledge to understand, design, implement, and maintain security within a network infrastructure. This course teaches the principles of network security through the study of the concepts of confidentiality, integrity, and availability as the foundation for analyzing threats, devising countermeasures, and protecting resources against attack. The course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA Security+ examination.

CCR-100 College and Career Readiness
Prerequisite(s): NA

College and Career Readiness is the first six-week course designed to prepare students for Career Training Success. Classes meet 20 hours per week, Monday through Thursday. Class times available are either 9:00am – 2:00pm for day time students and 5:00pm – 10:00pm for night time students.

ACD-150 Advanced Career Development
Prerequisite(s): NA

Advanced Career Development is offered toward the end of your program and is designed to prepare students for Career Success. Classes meet for a total of 15 hours during the scheduled term.

AOS Degree Courses

CCR-100 College and Career Readiness
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course is designed to prepare students for Career Training Success. It will introduce skills to prepare students for personal growth and success in their career. Emphasis will be placed on aiding students in the development of a variety of soft skills necessary for success in their career field and classroom interactions to include Stress Management, Effective Study Skills, Time Management, Leadership Development, Team Building, Financial Literacy, Effective Communication Skills, Diversity and Conflict Resolution, Career Readiness and Overcoming Road Blocks to Success. Students will also participate in activities to help develop the necessary skills to cope with and manage common obstacles that may arise in the workplace. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be ready to begin their educational journey in their chosen program feeling confident and prepared to engage in the classroom and lab setting.

CN-100 Introduction to IT Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

The student will learn the necessary information to identify and explain basic computer components, set up a basic workstation, conduct basic software installation, establish basic network connectivity, identify compatibility issues, and identify/prevent basic security risks.

CN-101 Computer Systems Hardware
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course will provide the student with the knowledge to identify hardware compatibility, install, upgrade, troubleshoot and repair, and maintain personal computer systems. Students will develop their ability to understand computer architecture, diagnose faults, install operating systems, networks, and maintain PC level security. This course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA A+ Hardware examination.

CNT-102 Computer Systems Software
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course will provide skills required to install, configure, upgrade, and maintain PC workstations, various operating systems, and SOHO networks. Students will utilize troubleshooting techniques and tools to effectively and efficiently resolve PC, OS, and network connectivity issues and implement security practices. Students will also learn the concepts of good customer service and help center documentation, the course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA A+ Software examination.

CN-110 Networking Principles
Prerequisite(s): CN-101 and CN-102, or current CompTIA A+ Certification

After successful completion of this course, the students should be able to troubleshoot, configure, and manage common network wireless and wired devices, establish basic network design and connectivity, understand and maintain network documentation, identify network limitations and weaknesses, and implement network security, standards, and protocols. The student should have a basic understanding of emerging technologies including unified communications, mobile, cloud, and virtualization technologies.

CN-115 Server Administration
Prerequisite(s): CN-110 or current CompTIA Network+ Certification

This course will provide the student with the knowledge to install, manage, and troubleshoot servers. The student will be exposed to proper server security controls, troubleshooting common server problems, and key disaster recovery, high availability, and backup concepts. This course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA Server+ examination.

CN-120 Linux System Fundamentals
Prerequisite(s): CN-110 or current CompTIA Network+ Certification

This course will provide the student with the foundational knowledge of the Linux operating system environment. The student will be exposed to file operations, shell script programming, as well as installation of different Linux operating systems, packages, and applications. The course is designed to begin preparing the student for the LPI Linux Essentials examination.

CN-125 Network Security
Prerequisite(s): CN-101, CN-102 and CN-110 or CompTIA Net- work + and A+ Certifications

This course will provide the student with the foundational knowledge to understand, design, implement, and maintain security within a network infrastructure. This course teaches the principles of network security through the study of the concepts of confidentiality, integrity, and availability as the foundation for analyzing threats, devising countermeasures, and protecting resources against attack. The course is designed to begin preparing the student for the CompTIA Security+ examination.

CN-130 Cloud Technology
Prerequisite(s): CN-101, CN-102 and CN-110 or CompTIA Net- work + and A+ Certifications

After successful completion of this course, the students should be able to evaluate and implement standard cloud deployments, implement, maintain, and deliver cloud technologies including network, storage, and virtualization technologies to create cloud solutions. The successful student will manage workload migrations, manage cloud vendors to control costs, use automation and orchestration to bring business value from cloud solutions, and ensure security of cloud implementations through the use of cybersecurity best practices. The course is designed to help prepare the student for the CompTIA Cloud+ (CV0-002) examination.

ACD-150 Advanced Career Development
Prerequisite(s): NA

During this course students will learn and develop their skills in various aspects that will contribute to career success. They will learn how to empower themselves for their career through preparation and proper goal setting. Students will learn how to properly develop an effective resume and cover letter, how to appropriately prepare for the interview process, what to expect during an interview, and how to follow up once the interview is completed. They will specifically focus on developing understanding of the hiring process, the role of social media and networking play, how to search for jobs, what their worth is and what the job market is like. Students will also have the opportunity to perform a mock interview, focusing on how to answer common questions, as well as gain, develop their professionalism as it relates to the interview process and ultimately their career.

LE-150 Leadership
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of leadership as it relates to working for an organization and leading a team. This course has an emphasis on preparing students to focus on their leadership qualities and characteristics in an effort to be a contributing member of their organization.

CT-201 Critical Thinking
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This introductory level course presents a variety of topics essential to a student’s development in critical thinking. Students are introduced to concepts essential to the comprehension, analysis, and creation of arguments: induction, deduction, informal fallacies, Aristotelian and symbolic logic, modes of persuasion, perspective and bias, language and meaning, culminating in the development of reasonable strategies for belief formation.

BC-201 Business Communication
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course provides the foundations of all types of business communication including letters, memos, electronic communication, written reports, oral presentations, and interpersonal communication. The course also includes topics of resumes, application letters, interviewing tips, and employment follow-up documents

IB-215 Introduction to Business
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course provides students with an overview of business in an increasingly global society serving as an introduction to business terminology, concepts, environments, systems, strategies, and current issues. Topics include an overview of the business environment, business ethics, entrepreneurship and global business, management, marketing, production, information systems, and financial elements of business. This course provides a solid business foundation for more detailed and higher-level study in subsequent courses.

AG-255 American Government
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of American government and politics focusing on the historical evolution of government and policies, the major institutions, and the major processes.

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Industry Certifications

Graduates are prepared to sit for the following certification exams:

  • CompTIA Tech+
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Server+
  • CompTIA Linux+
  • CompTIA Cloud+ (Degree Program Only)

Is Hands-On Training for a Career as a Computer Systems Technician Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in exploring whether IntelliTec College’s educational training programs for career opportunities in the Computer Systems Technology industry are right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

A helpful IntelliTec College Admissions Representative will be happy to answer any questions you have and can help with everything from determining the right career path for you to discussing financial aid options.


IntelliTec College Locations

IntelliTec College has 4 accredited campus locations in Colorado Springs, CO, Grand Junction, CO, Pueblo, CO, and Albuquerque, NM. Each of our campuses provides a unique learning experience, helping you become a career-ready professional. Explore your career options today!

Albuquerque Campus

Colorado Springs Campus

Grand Junction Campus

Pueblo Campus