Program Outline
Here's how it works
Your program consists of courses designed to take you step-by-step through the techniques and skills you'll use in your new career as a PC Maintenance and Repair Technician. Your first course will be sent to you as soon as your enrollment has been accepted. Other courses will follow as you complete your exams, so that you will always have training materials to work with.
Computer Specifications
You will need access to a Microsoft® Windows®-based computer running Windows® XP or later (Mac OS X® or later) and high-speed Internet to complete your program with Penn Foster.
Note: Graduates of this program also earn 15 college credits toward an A.S. degree in PC Maintenance Technology at Penn Foster College.
PCM101 — The Information Age (Delivered Online Only)
This course is a brief introduction to the constantly changing world of computer technology in the Information Age. The course introduces the technology student to the social and professional importance of technology, some basics of the language of technology, and career opportunities related to technology.
PCM103 — Introduction to PC Maintenance and Repair
This course provides the student with a broad view of PC Maintenance and Repair, focusing on the essential elements of hardware and software, as well as the importance of safety. It also explains the essential characteristics of a PC maintenance technician and the various types of employment available.
PCM105 — PC Hardware 1
Defines and describes the elements and function of hardware devices which are part of a modern personal computer system.
Prerequisite: Introduction to PC Maintenance and Repair
PCM106 — PC Hardware 2
This course provides the student with more sophisticated techniques in PC Maintenance and Repair, including external I/O devices, printers, notebooks/laptops/PDAs, purchasing and building PCs, troubleshooting, support, virus protection, data protection, and recovery.
Prerequisite: PC Hardware 1
PCM107 — PC Operating Systems
Describes the use of software for virus protection, data protection and recovery, and gives a systematic overview of operating systems, including an array of Windows® systems, such as 9x, ME, NT®, 2000, and XP, and Apple® Computers.
Prerequisite: PC Hardware 2
INT128 — Network Protocols and Internetworking
Network Protocols and Internetworking covers topics related to how computers communicate with each other, how computers are grouped together to form networks, networking concepts and issues that are key to the successful implementation of computer networks, and the different networking implementation strategies and technologies currently available. (Required textbook provided with course.)
Prerequisite: PC Operating Systems
Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School.
We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.
You must have completed the 8th grade to enroll in this program.
