Intro
Glendale Community College’s IT Fundamentals Microcredential Pathway equips students with both a foundational understanding of essential IT skills required for entry-level technician roles as well as the professional skills that employers are seeking such as communication, empathy, professionalism, and more.
By completing this microcredential pathway, students will earn a Certificate of Completion (CCL) and two open digital badges. The pathway also helps students to prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ certification exam.
Join GCC’s IT Fundamentals Microcredential Pathway and gain the skills you need to get started in a variety of industries!
How does this pathway prepare you for the workforce?
This pathway creates an inclusive learning environment for a diverse audience of technicians spanning HVAC, healthcare, manufacturing, telecom, and more. Addressing industry demands to equip the workforce with fundamental IT skills, ensuring proactive career readiness. Recognizing the increasing demand for essential IT skills in diverse industries, this program equips people employed as technicians to navigate the fundamentals of information technology. This microcredential pathway is aligned with MCCCD’s mission to provide proactive career readiness for in demand fields.
Pathway Information
This microcredential pathway is offered through one 3-credit course and one non-credit course offered by Glendale Community College. These courses are:
CIS101: Technician IT Fundamentals (3 Credits)
Survey of computer fundamentals. Focus on basic knowledge and skills, including components and hardware, word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, and email.
Workforce Professional Skills (Non-Credit - Free)
This is an online, self-paced course consisting of five modules that prepare students for employment. The course covers the necessary skills for all types of employment, such as communication, empathy, professionalism, collaboration, initiative, critical thinking, problem-solving, and more.
These courses can typically be completed in 1 semester, depending on course availability.
$291 for students eligible for Maricopa County resident tuition.
(3 credits at $97 per credit hour + $15 registration fee)
This microcredential pathway provides the foundational skills for entry-level technician employment in a variety of industries. Upon completion of this pathway, you will be able to:
- Enter the workforce directly after completing the training.
- Earn 2 open digital badges that demonstrate your understanding of each topic.*
- Continue your education and stack your credentials into a certificate or degree!
*Earning an open digital badge provides a portable and verifiable way to showcase skills and achievements. These badges can be easily shared online across various platforms, enhancing one's digital presence and credibility.
What You’ll Learn
The microcredentials and badges included within this microcredential pathway certify your proficiency in essential skills for today's workforce, ranging from IT fundamentals to professional skills for succeeding in the workplace. Each badge represents hands-on experience and demonstrated expertise.
The IT Fundamentals microcredential signifies knowledge of basic IT skills necessary for employment as a technician in a variety of industries. This includes:
- Spreadsheet manipulation
- Word processing
- Presentation creation
- Efficient file management
- Basic operating system navigation
- Introductory database management
This microcredential also helps students prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ Certification.
The criteria for earning the badge include:
Successfully passing the final exam with a grade of 80% or higher
The Workforce Professional Skills microcredential is developed to equip individuals with the essential skills vital for thriving in today's dynamic workplace environment. This credential encompasses a blend of theoretical understanding and assessment to ensure participants are adeptly prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented in various professional settings. Key focus areas of this microcredential include Communication, Empathy, Professionalism, Collaboration, Initiative, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Self-Directed Learning, and Resilience.
The criteria for earning the badge includes:
Successfully passing the final exam with a grade of 80% or higher.