Online Computer Repair Schools: How to Choose

Computer repair is only a small part of becoming a systems administrator, with many online programs geared toward technicians with experience. Online programs are generally short, offering preparation for industry certification exams to their students.

How to Select an Online Computer Repair School

Available Certifications

While many schools can provide practical lessons in computer repair, entering the career field can require one or more industry credentials. When choosing a school, students should look for online programs that offer preparation for industry examinations. The industry standard for computer repair professionals is the CompTIA A+ certification (www.comptia.org). Other credentials are vendor-specific, such as the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) designation.

Career Goals

Many schools offer computer repair training as part of continuing education and other programs. Students in many fields, such as graphic design or business, can derive a large benefit from single courses in computer repair. These courses give students basic computer skills, such as hardware and operating system installation, without involving a full PC repair curriculum.

Additional Skills

Rarely do schools provide full degree programs focused on individual PC repair. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the computer repair field broadly under the category of computer systems administrators. Those looking to enter the field should seek a program that offers additional skills in basic computer networking, mathematics and business. Students may also learn the skills necessary to enter fields related to computer repair, such as electronics repair or network administration.

List of Online Computer Repair Programs

Certificate in Computer Repair

Complete computer repair curricula are generally only available through for-profit institutions. Few certificate-level programs are comprehensive, with most merely preparing students for industry certification exams. Those without PC experience are encouraged to take hands-on classes, but online study can be a convenient option for those with prior computer repair experience. These courses are often self-paced and require the equivalent of 3-15 credits of instruction, covering the basics of networks, operating systems and PC hardware.