Computer Systems Technology
The Computer Systems Technology (CST) degree covers training in networking, which is the design and maintenance of computer operating systems and associated hardware. Networking skills are increasingly in demand as companies upgrade technology, expand computer operations, and utilize cloud-based technology. In particular, networking positions are rapidly growing in the health care industry as with the advancement of technology and electronic medical records. In the CST degree at City College, you will gain hands-on experience with troubleshooting and supporting corporate networks, networking and routing (Cisco levels 1-8), applications (Microsoft Office), operating systems (Windows Server), answering clients' inquiries concerning hardware and software, and cyber security. Upon successful completion of the degree, you will be prepared for a variety of industry certifications, such as Cisco and CompTIA Cyber Security.
Cost of Attendance
| Median Wage (MT) | 60,140 yearly 28.91 hourly |
| Median Wage (US) | 81,100 yearly 38.99 hourly |
|
MT Expected Growth |
16% |
|
US Expected Growth |
6% |
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, Office of Employment Projections; MT Dept. of Labor and Industry, Research and Analysis Bureau; (2018)
You will find employment in a variety of settings, such as:
- Universities
- Public or private school systems
- Hospitals or healthcare organizations
- Online service providers
Retail stores
- Financial institutions
- Computer companies, including hardware and software firms
Examples of where recent City College graduates are working:
- First Interstate Bank, Billings, MT
- Rural Broadband, Billings, MT
- Billings Public Schools, Billings, MT
- The Connect Group, Billings, MT
- RiverStone Health, Billings, MT
- Montana State University Billings, Billings, MT
- St. Vincent's Hospital, Billings, MT
- KULR-8 Television, Billings, MT
- BEK Communications, Steele, ND
- Integra Telecom, Billings, MT
- CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
- CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)
- CompTIA Cyber Security Analyst (CySA+): IT Fundamentals, A+, Network+, and Security+
- MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer)
- MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional)
ADMISSION TO CITY COLLEGE
- First-time college students must have high school diplomas from an accredited high school, a GED/HiSET, or passed the MSUB Readiness Exam offered through our university.
- Transfer students will need to submit records from all regionally accredited institutions.
| ASSOCIATES OF APPLIED SCIENCE (AAS) Computer Systems Technology » » | BACHELOR OF APPLIED SCIENCE (BAS) |
Students who earn an AAS degree and want to further their education are able to go on for a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) Degree through MSU Billings. Students can focus on various thematic concentrations to earn the BAS degree. Contact Advising at 406-657-2240 for further details.
Q: Is this program eligible for financial aid and scholarships?
A: Yes! Please visit our Financial Aid and Scholarships website for more information.
Q: What skills are covered in this program?
A:
- How to provide assistance and training to system users as well as administer the computer network
- Techniques to investigate and resolve computer problems, both on a client computer and across an entire network
- Troubleshooting and supporting corporate networks
- Networking, routing (Cisco levels 1-8)
- Applications (Microsoft Office)
- Operating Systems (Window Server)
- Troubleshooting communications and connectivity issues
- Cyber Security training
Q: Can I complete this program fully online?
A: No. Some of the courses in the program's curriculum can be completed online, however most of your courses are only offered in-person on the City College campus. You can learn more about online options by speaking with an advisor at Jacket Student Central.