Program Tips

Program Description

The IT-Software Development Specialist technical diploma prepares individuals to provide technical assistance in resolving software-based computer problems in today's digital office environments.

Completing the Diploma

Upon completion of this technical diploma, students can apply for the IT-Software Developer program or pursue the following career prospects:

• IT Software Developer Internship
• Quality Assurance Specialist
• Help Desk Specialist
• Computer Operator

Technology Requirements

Student will need to provide their own device with reliable Wi-Fi at home/off-campus.

IT-Software Developer program requires the student to have access to a computer to complete their online course hours and their homework.  The computer must meet the minimum requirements or better to be used for the  duration of the program.

Recommended Laptop Specifications:

                            At Least                     Preferred

OS                       Windows 10               Windows 11

Processor            i5                                 i7 or i9 +

RAM                    8 GB                            16 GB

Storage               256 GB                         512 GB to 1 TB

Academic Advising & Student Success

Academic advisors assist students with developing academic plans based on their degree evaluations. Their goal is to plan the right pathway to graduation by maximizing students' potential and ensuring success based on the student's previous academic experience, career path, and responsibilities outside of being a student. Student success specialists assist students in overcoming barriers that many students encounter over their academic career. Their goal is to help students become academically successful by assisting with goal setting, interpersonal issues, success plans, and community-based referrals. More information can be found on Commons (Student Services & Support).

Age of IT Credit

Students are strongly encouraged to complete all their core IT courses within a 5 year timeframe from the time they start their first semester core IT courses. Students who do not complete IT core courses within this timeframe may be subject to further review to determine if course repeats are necessary to progress through and to complete the program. This is to ensure knowledge of currently industry concepts in a continuously changing field.

Computer Skills

Before beginning this program, experience with the basic use of current Windows operating systems, word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software is highly recommended. Students that are uncomfortable using the above-mentioned software should take 103-102 Microsoft Office Suite, 2 credits, before starting the program or during the first semester. Students should also be able to type at least 20 words per minute, accurately and without looking at the keyboard.

Distance Learning

Program courses are typically 8 weeks long. All courses are available online. All courses are offered in hybrid format, which is approximately half online and half classroom. Online courses do not require students to travel to campus.

Tips for Success

• Attend class regularly if you are in a hybrid course. IT courses only meet for 8 weeks and progress very quickly.
• Meet deadlines! Even the online courses are NOT self-paced. Assignments have due dates.
• For both online and hybrid courses, practice time management. Set aside time each week to work on homework to keep pace with the class schedule.
• Communicate with your instructors. Check email and Canvas daily. Ask questions!

Using a Personal Computer

Students are required to have a personal computer to complete assignments. Courses may require the current version of the software utilized in class, along with the necessary hardware to support it. Internet access is a necessity. Check with the program instructors for more information.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)

CPL offers CVTC students an opportunity to earn college credit towards an associate degree or technical diploma for previous knowledge and mastered skills directly related to program curriculum. Previous knowledge and skills may be the result of work or volunteer experience, certifications, apprenticeships, military experience, and courses completed at other institutions. If a student wished to attempt CPL for a course in progress, it is imperative that CPL is attempted within the first week of the class to be eligible for a tuition refund. More information can be found at cvtc.edu/CPL.

Students with Disabilities

CVTC welcomes individuals with disabilities. We will provide and coordinate reasonable accommodations for all individuals with documented disabilities. Students that might benefit from accommodations during their college experience at CVTC can contact Diversity Resources at 715-833-6234 or diversity@cvtc.edu to determine what accommodations they may be eligible for and what documentation may be required.

Title IX Pregnancy and Postpartum

CVTC does not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions and will fully comply with Title IX regulations. Absences due to medical conditions relating to pregnancy and maternity leave will be excused for as long as deemed medically necessary by a student's medical provider, and students will be given the opportunity to make up missed work. Students are encouraged to contact Diversity Resources at 715-833-6234 or diversity@cvtc.edu to set up an appointment as soon as the pregnancy is known.

Financial Aid

This program does not qualify for financial aid.

Last Updated: February 22, 2024 @ 8:19 a.m.