Complete CMIT-135
Explore Information Technology Fundamentals
Develop your it fundamentals and enter this in-demand field with a credential employers will respect with Champlain's IT Fundamentals certificate program. This IT certificate online program includes courses in information technology such as python, TCP IP, SQL and even an introduction to cybersecurity.
Build Your Career Future
We understand how important it is for busy working adults to gain knowledge quickly, which is why our it certificate online coursework in areas such as networking, database design and SQL, and other courses in information technology are applicable to the workplace from day one. Get your resume noticed, and demonstrate proficiency in a focused area of knowledge.
Program Curriculum
Learn more about Champlain's 100% online information technology fundamentals undergraduate certificate, designed for working professionals.
Champlain's online information technology courses encompass the top skills needed by today's IT professionals.
This course provides students with an understanding of the many different devices and technologies, from historical to emerging, that are required to design and build networks. In a broad survey of concepts and terminology, students will learn about topology, communications, protocols, and security, and to diagram basic networks to specification.
From day one, students in this course are problem solving, first in terms of algorithmic design and then as early as week two via programming in the latest version of Python, using PyCharm. Students begin by writing a program to have a conversation, having strings and numbers as input, and advance, by week seven, to building a working password saver program, capable of looking up, adding (and encrypting), and storing passwords.
Learn the basics and more in this course on Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS) and SQL (Structured Query Language). Students propose a final project in the first module and then work, week-by-week, to design, create, and populate the database. Then, students learn to create queries and stored procedures.
Prerequisites
This course will introduce foundation subject matter and technologies that are critical to the multidisciplinary landscape of cybersecurity.
Prerequisites
Complete CMIT-130 and CMIT-135.
Project Management is the formal application of knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to project-based activities to meet organizational requirements. Project management is accomplished through the use of processes such as Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing. Project managers can divide projects into these phases to provide better management control with appropriate links to the ongoing operations of the organization. Collectively, these phases, known as the project life cycle, form the foundation for the practice of project management and are guided by the Body of Knowledge from the Project Management Institute (PMI).
This course is a thorough review of the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) which is used extensively in corporate enterprise networks and the Internet. The course will cover the structure of TCP/IP, its application to data networks, and security issues.
Prerequisites
CMIT-130
Additional Program Details
Graduates of the online information technology fundamentals certificate program will demonstrate the following industry-specific skills, knowledge, and competencies:
- Identify essential network components and methods of communication, including TCP/IP, and diagram basic networks to specification.
- Develop and test basic Python applications.
- Explain key concepts of database design and use Structured Query Language to manipulate data.
- Discuss fundamental cybersecurity concepts, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
- Apply project management best practices to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.
- Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS)
- SQL (Structured Query Language)
- Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
- Wireshark
Students who have earned the CISSP Certification are eligible for transfer credits toward this certificate. Please speak to an admission representative or your academic advisor for details.
Our admissions team seeks to admit students who:
- Demonstrate a solid academic foundation - a minimum 2.5 GPA is our recommendation, though exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis for those who demonstrate a potential for academic success in other ways.
- Possess an aptitude for success in an online learning environment.
- Exhibit the ability to make a positive contribution to the Champlain College Online community.
To learn more about submitting transcripts, or requirements for home-schooled students, those educated abroad or returning students visit our Undergraduate Admissions page.
Champlain College Online's computer science faculty, led by Department Chair Richard Pickering, are expert practitioners in the field. Their industry expertise ensures that our curriculum is aligned with the needs of employers, and reflects the skills today’s IT systems professionals need for success. Classes led by our seasoned experts will give you real-world insight into the world of information technology, and create a rich community of career-focused learning.
Tuition & Costs
Online Undergraduate Tuition Fall '24 - Summer '26
$335
per credit
$290
per credit for Champlain alumni, associate degree graduates, veterans**, and family members of veterans and servicemembers
$250
per credit for military servicemembers
$150
One-time graduation fee
** Veteran rate effective Spring 2025, not retroactive
See the undergraduate cost of attendance and fees here
Affordability and Paying For Your Education
We provide a number of options to make your online education affordable, including preferred tuition for alumni, associate degree graduates, community college graduates, and military.
Gain New Skills With a Certificate
Computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 13% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all new occupations.*
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2020
Top Reasons To Pursue a Certificate
- Build new skills
- Differentiate your resume
- Earn a credential
- Enter a new field
Academic Excellence and Recognition
Regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Designated as a Military Friendly School for our commitment to the military community
Ranked among the best by Tech Guide for game design and computer science
Named the among the best schools with accelerated bachelor's degrees by Intelligent.com
Meet the Program Director
Richard Pickering, PhD
Department Chair - Cybersecurity and Assistant Professor
Oversees
- Computer Science
- Software Development
- Software Engineering & Project Management
- Web Design & Development
About
Dr. Richard Pickering is an Assistant Professor and the Program Director for Technology here at Champlain College Online. Richard has a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning coupled with an MBA and numerous technology-related certifications.
Prior to Champlain, Dr. Pickering enjoyed a distinguished career blending pedagogical expertise with strategic leadership in program management and product development in the educational business sector.
Dr. Pickering also has held positions as Chief Executive Officer at Virtual High School Global Consortium, Chief Operating Officer at Victory Productions, various Program/Product Manager posts as well as Adjunct Professor appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Following are some frequently asked questions about the information technology fundamentals certificate program.
The undergraduate certificate in IT Fundamentals provides foundational knowledge in software, technical platforms, and programming languages. It’s ideal for beginners.
Yes, you can complete the IT Fundamentals Certificate as a standalone program. It’s also a valuable addition to other IT-related degrees.
Graduates can explore roles such as help desk technician, IT support specialist, or systems administrator. The certificate opens doors to entry-level IT positions.
Champlain emphasizes practical skills, ensuring you’re well-prepared for real-world IT challenges.
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