Looking to get into the computer field for the first time.

IBM/PS1 · 10-23-2009, 01:22 PM

I've always enjoyed tinkering around with computers and software. Even getting a slew of viruses and Trojans is somewhat enjoyable as i enjoy troubleshooting the problem and learning about the in's and out's of the Microsoft operating system.

I also enjoy working with computer systems and repairing/building from scratch. I really don't see this as work at all which is what leads me to think i would enjoy doing it for a living.

I just have a few questions about getting into the computer field. Keep in mind i am in Canada and I'm sure the certification works differently that it does in the USA.

Most programs i see offered at colleges allow students to challenge there Cisco CCNA, Microsoft MCP, CompTIA, A+, Net+ certifications. Just a few links to college programs i am very interested in taking in the near future.

Full Time Program Details
Next Academic Year, Computer Systems Technician, Fanshawe College

Any advice would as always be greatly appreciated.

Lexluethar · 10-23-2009, 02:47 PM

First off congrats. The IT field is rewarding and challenging at the same time.

Certifications work the same way no matter what country you are in. A+ is A+ period. MCP is the same in Canada as it is in the US or Europe.

My first question is do you plan on going to these technical schools just to get certifications or to get a Bachelors / associates? The reason I ask is there are a lot of training material out there that cost WAY less then schools costs for certifications. An example is the A+. I've seen classes that cost around $1300 for this. WHen you could purchase a book for $100 then take the exam for another $300 (keep in mind the class requires you to still pay for the exam).

Secondly I would say start small and move up from there. Start out with the A+ and/or Net+ and move on from there into microsoft exams and Cisco.

IBM/PS1 · 10-23-2009, 04:26 PM

Well i would like to get a broad range of training from a teacher or qualified person.

I also like the idea of getting a diploma then having the option of doing a degree at a university.

Personally i also find i learn better in a classroom setting.

Lexluethar · 10-23-2009, 07:56 PM

Then get your associates. THat way you get a broad range of information. If you go to a technical school for a certain certification they will just focus on that certification and you won't learn much if anything else. I know with a lot of microsoft certifications they exect you to already know a lot of about operating systems and settings.

oldskool · 10-24-2009, 01:39 AM

I agree with Lex. Getting an Associate will give you a broad, basic understanding of IT, and then you could expand from there but getting an internship or something similar. And Lex's suggestion of getting basic certifications and then going for more difficult ones is spot on as well.

IBM/PS1 · 10-24-2009, 12:38 PM

The problem is i don't have the required courses and grades to get into any universities.

I was planning on finishing the two year program then applying for advanced standing into a degree program.

I was planning on taking my A+ from home to get a feel for the basics then taking a two year course for a college diploma.

A lot of the programs offered at colleges give students the knowledge to challenge quite a few different certifications which is what I'm looking at.

oldskool · 10-24-2009, 02:08 PM

You would be surprised, call a university of your choice today.

There are loans and grants available.

I would emphasize degree(s) first, and try to pick up an internship before finishing school. That way you would have the degree plus some experience. Later you could get some certs, which would be up to date with what was going on after you graduate and have the internship experience.

IBM/PS1 · 10-24-2009, 02:14 PM

Money isn't an issue.. Well partly money and partly i don't have the Grade point average to attend any Canadian universities.

Mainly i don't want to spend 4+ years in school again.

I'm going to buy an A+ certification book and study it then take the test.

If i found the experience rewarding i might take a general computer technician course at a college.

That should give a broad range of base training in which i can challenge other certifications from there.

Can anyone recommend an up to date A+ training manual that i could pick up at any bookstore.

oldskool · 10-24-2009, 02:19 PM

I am really trying to emphasize the schooling, because these days you are going to need it. Trust me on that. No degree = hard time finding IT job.

IBM/PS1 · 10-24-2009, 02:32 PM

I have no problems with going to school.

I'm just saying my only current option is going to college for an advanced diploma. Is that not something substantial in the industry?

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