Handbook

University of Alaska Fairbanks
Microcomputer Support Specialist Program Statewide
Handbook 1999 - 2000

Introduction
The purpose of the Microcomputer Support Specialist Program (MSSP) is to train students for entry-level computer support positions. Students will develop skills applicable for small to middle size offices and for self-employment.

Program Skills
Students who earn the Microcomputer Support Specialist Degree or Certificate will learn the following skills:
-Applications Skills - The essential office applications including word processing, databases, graphics, desktop publishing, and the Internet.
-Networking Skills - Use, configure, troubleshoot, and install networks in a small to intermediate office environment.
-Hardware/Software Configuration & Troubleshooting Skills - Install, troubleshoot, and configure hardware and software.
-Independent Thinking & Research Skills - Research computer problems, provide computer support, and learn new computer applications.
-Human Relations & Support Skills - Respect and help computer users, develop and deliver training, and develop maintenance plans.

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Admission Procedures
For formal admission Students will follow the normal UAF admissions process to apply for a degree or certificate.

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Alternatives for Course Completion
1. Enroll in the MSSP program at UAF, but take courses locally.
2. Take courses at one or more campuses,
accumulating credits which will articulate to UAF courses. In order to receive financial aid, students must be enrolled in an approved certificate or degree program.
3. Take distance courses.
Contact University of Alaska Fairbanks' Center for Distance Education (907) 474-5353 or visit web site: http://www.dist-ed.uaf.edu/
4. Challenge courses through local credit by examination.
Credit by examination is not accepted for the MSSP Core Requirements with exception of Microcomputer Operating Systems. Only degree-seeking students may be awarded credit through locally developed comprehensive examinations. There is a non-refundable fee for taking the exam ($40 per credit). Students will be awarded credit and a grade of P (Pass) if they successfully pass the local exam. If the exam is not passed, the course will not be recorded on the student's transcript. Students have one year from the date of application to take the local examination. Credit by exam is not considered as University of Alaska residency credit.
5. Apply for credit for prior learning at UAF.
Credit for prior learning is not accepted for the MSSP Core Requirements with exception of Microcomputer Operating Systems. In order to get credit for prior learning, student's skills must be equivalent to the course content (see course competencies) and these skills must be documented or demonstrated. A combination of methods can be used to document the acquiring of course competencies:
- A portfolio of work
- Professional licenses or certificates
- Successful completion of training programs
- Testing
- Projects or tasks
- Interviews and demonstrations
- References from clients
Certificate and associate degree students may have up to 25% of the total program requirements granted for prior learning. Faculty from participating departments at UAF reviews credentials. Review is made based on equivalency to courses listed in the UAF catalog. There is a Credit for Prior Learning Application initial evaluation fee and a fee for each credit that is awarded. Credit for Prior Learning is not considered as University of Alaska residency credit. For further information about credit for prior learning, contact the UAF Academic Advising Center (907) 474-6396.

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CIOS Competencies
Each CIOS class is made up of a group of competencies or expectations. It is assumed that a student who completes one of our classes will have these competencies. If the competencies or expectations are already met through other means, such as workshops, self-education, or experience, equivalent class work will not be required. Competencies will need to be proven through demonstration, examples of previous work, and interviews. The purpose of our program is to enhance and expand current skills. We can develop alternative plans to match program expectations with a student’s previous experience and preparation.

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Certification Review and Program Standards
All students are required to pass a certification review administered from a committee who will evaluate the student’s skills. The review could include configuring a computer, troubleshooting, or explaining computer skills to new users. The committee may consist of a faculty advisor, industry/business representative, or student mentor. All students must demonstrate that they meet or exceed the overarching program standards. A matrix of program standards follows Statewide/distance students will be encouraged to develop an electronic portfolio to based upon these program standards.

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Please see also
Program Checklist for a Certificate
Program Checklist for a Associate of Applied Science
Course Equivalencies
Course Competencies