Computers are important to all parts of the economy, and the number of careers that involve work with computers is constantly expanding. Students in the associate in applied science (AAS) degree program in applied computer technology take courses to prepare them for careers that involve maintaining computer software and hardware, installing and maintaining computer networks, and working with a variety of computer applications. This program is available for qualified deaf and hard of hearing students.

The associate in applied science (AAS) degree in applied computer technology, offered by RIT's National Technical Institute for the Deaf, leads to immediate entry-level positions in the computing industry. It prepares you for a career in computer support occupations that involves:

• Installing, maintaining, upgrading and repairing computer hardware and software.
• Networking and security that allows computers to be secured and safely communicate and share resources with one another.

Concentrations

As a student in the applied computer technology program, you will select an area to specialize in by choosing a program concentration in either computer technical support or networking and cyber security.

Computer Technical Support Concentration: If you select this concentration, you will develop skills specific to working with people to solve their computer-related problems. These skills prepare you to work at a help desk responding to client's computer problems, and perform setup, upgrades and repairs to computers and computer peripherals.

Networking and Cyber Security Concentration: If you select this concentration, you will develop skills specific to network and network security support, including server set-up, support and administration; network set-up, troubleshooting and repair; identifying and implementing security policies; and installing appropriate hardware and software to support a secure and robust network.