CompTIA™ A+ Certification
Program Overview
CompTIA's A+ certification is the top credential for associate-level IT professionals. This 100% online course will prepare you for CompTIA A+ certification exams 220-1001 and 220-1002. You’ll learn how to install and configure operating systems, expand IT security, troubleshoot software and other common operational procedures.
“I would recommend the CompTIA A+ course to someone in my position. If you need to get this type of IT information quickly all in one place and for a good price, the class is great for that,” David P.
Job Outlook
- According to PayScale.com, certified IT and computer support specialists can earn around $44,970 per year on average.
- Earning CompTIA A+ certification expands job opportunities for computer and IT support specialists because it focuses on knowledge that can be applied across computer systems and networks.
- The Bureau of Labor Statistics also lists "Computer Support Specialist" among its most promising career areas, expecting 10 percent annual growth in job opportunities over the coming decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Info Accordions
The CompTIA A+ certification addresses performance-based topics and questions that prove you can think on your feet and solve systems, software and network problems in real-time.
As the most respected associate-level IT certification in the industry, CompTIA A+ certification verifies that you have passed a standard that is supported by companies like Intel, Dell and HP.
Support specialists install and support hardware, including computers, accessories, mobile devices and network equipment. They also monitor, maintain and troubleshoot hardware, networks, operating systems and applications.
Every organization creates its own job titles. CompTIA A+ certified professionals could work as a service desk analyst, technical support specialist, desktop support administrator, help desk technician or system support specialist.
No, you do not have to be an admitted student to North Carolina Central University to enroll in this program. Our online non-credit advanced career training programs are open to all.
This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course as soon as you are ready. Access to your course can take 24–48 business hours.
This course will provide you with the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. Potential students should always do research on the job market in their area before registering.
Course Objectives
- Be fully prepared to sit for the CompTIA 220-1001 and 220-1002 certification exams.
- Learn the installation, maintenance and troubleshooting processes for most devices.
Prerequisites and Requirements
Although there are no prerequisites to enroll in the course, CompTIA recommends all A+ exam applicants have up to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field before taking the certification exam. Additionally, you should have basic knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems—for example, how to power up and log on to a machine, how to use a mouse and keyboard, and basic Microsoft Windows navigation skills.
Curriculum
CompTIA A+ (220-1001)
Introduction to the 220-1001 section of the CompTIA A+ exam
Hardware
Desktop and laptop assembly, motherboards, BIOS and Processors
Hardware Part II
Troubleshooting cooling and power issues, maintaining and installing hard drives and storage
Networking
Common approaches to network connections, router setup, TCP/IP and local networking
Mobile and More
Mobile device security and virtualization
CompTIA A+ (220-1002)
Introduction to the 220-1002 section of the CompTIA A+ exam
Windows
Tools for installing and maintaining Windows interfaces, command lines and remote desktops
Troubleshooting
Solving problems with the boot process, startup and re-installation
Security
Best practices for securing Windows from malicious software
Mac & Linux
Troubleshooting and maintaining MacOS and Linux operating systems
Instructors
David Grimes
David Grimes has more than 10 years of management and leadership experience in the private and non-profit sectors. Grimes is passionate about technology and education, having worked as academic dean, student services director, technology coordinator, teacher, consultant, and technology columnist. He holds a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Science from Ohio State University, both in Technology Education.
This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
