PTC updates and expands its computer programs

This summer, PTC staff and faculty expanded upon its popular computer programs. Previously, PTC’s lineup of computer programs included a certificate and two associate degrees; however, beginning this fall semester, options for students will include: a networking and microcomputer technologies certificate; a network administration A.A.S. degree; a computer programming A.A.S. degree; and, a computer science A.S. degree. In addition to the expanded program offerings, nearly all individual courses within the programs underwent a careful restructuring and redesign, resulting in an impressive, up-to-date curriculum that exceeds recently-elevated industry standards.

“Technology is constantly changing, and as information technology educators, we also must change and update our curriculum to ensure our students and graduates possess the most relevant and applicable skills,” says Stephen Cody, PTC network administration instructor. “We are especially proud of our newly-redesigned programs, and we’re very excited to be able to prepare students with truly cutting-edge programming and network server administration skills that today’s employers demand,” Cody adds.

PTC’s networking and microcomputer technologies certificate, considered a student’s “first year” of the larger network administration A.A.S. degree, is a match for students who want to become effective, marketable network server administrators – whether the student has previous training or experience in the field or not.

Like the network administration program, PTC’s A.A.S. degree in computer programming also was carefully redesigned to give students high-level competence and advanced skills to meet today’s demanding expectations.

“The most important task of a computer programmer is to write code, and programming languages change constantly,” says Tony Mueller, PTC computer programming instructor. “With our updated programming curriculum, students will learn not only the basics of language and code, but also skills in areas of designing, repairing, and conserving programs. Programmers often become indispensible to the organizations they work for, and altogether, whether a graduate wants to work in small business or for a large corporation, there’s always a need for qualified programmers,” Mueller adds.