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IT support certificates

Earning an information technology (IT) support certificate can teach you to apply mathematics, science, coding, and security to improve a user's experience. Read ahead to learn more about information technology certificates and how earning one could boost your career opportunities.

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Why earn an IT support certificate online?

Enhance your résumé

Pursuing an IT certificate can be a great way to boost your skills or study niche topics. In a rapidly growing industry, certificates can help you stand out from the crowd.

Demonstrate your understanding of the latest technology

Earning an IT certificate shows employers that you're committed to professional development and are familiar with the most up-to-date technology and best practices within IT.

Learn with flexibility

Online certificate programs feature flexible learning schedules in remote environments without sacrificing quality.

Browse IT certificate programs

Customize your online information technology (IT) certificate by researching the type of program that meets your needs. For example, professional certificates are a series of self-paced online courses that build comprehensive, career-relevant skills in two to 18 months. No matter what type of you choose, you will develop key technical knowledge and up-to-date skills in areas like hardware and software, computer networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and more.

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What you'll learn in an IT program

IT programs are constantly adapting and changing to meet the latest technology demands and trends. You'll learn many different topics including:

  • Cloud computing: Manage and troubleshoot the delivery of services and data through the cloud and online networks.
  • Data analytics: Analyze, make predictions, and draw conclusions from raw data.
  • Computer networking: Understand how interconnected computing devices exchange data and share resources through networks.
  • Support desk and customer service: Communicate with customers, staff members, and computer users of all levels so you can support them with their goals and tasks.

The duration of any IT certificate program will vary depending on the number of programming languages you choose to learn and the specific prerequisites for each language.

What jobs benefit from a certificate in IT support?

An IT support certificate can grow your knowledge base and boost your career opportunities — especially if you already hold a bachelor's or in a related field. The following are a few careers that may benefit from earning an IT support certificate.

Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information systems managers direct organizational technology initiatives and support business objectives and goals. They ensure that technology, IT infrastructure, and processes run efficiently.

  • Recommended education: Bachelor's degree
  • Required skills: Communication, time management, proficient software knowledge; project management software knowledge such as Agile, Scrum, and Kanban are also helpful.
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) median annual salary (2023): $169,510

Information security analyst

Information security analysts complete security management tasks such as security audits to ensure a company's network and systems are safe from data breaches.

  • Recommended education: Bachelor's degree
  • Required skills: Security training and clearance, critical thinking, and an ability to identify and manage malware and security threats.
  • BLS median annual salary (2023): $120,360

Data scientist

Data scientists analyze and interpret data from numerous sources to provide important insights for companies of all kinds.

  • Recommended education: Bachelor's degree
  • Required skills: Mathematics, data analysis, communication, and problem-solving.
  • BLS 2023 median annual salary: $108,020

Frequently asked questions

Is an IT support certificate worth it?

Obtaining an IT support certificate can be worth it if you plan to pursue or remain in a computer-related field. A certificate program can help you build upon existing skills or explore niche topics that can help you qualify for advanced roles.

How long does it take to earn an IT support certificate?

The time it takes to complete an IT support certificate varies widely and depends on your topic of interest, though most take anywhere from a few months to a year to complete. Niche topic courses may provide an in-depth look at subjects lasting a few weeks, while introductory courses may span several months.

How do I choose the right IT support certificate?

Choosing the right IT support certificate requires considering your long-term goals and area of interest. If you are new to the field, an introductory course may be a good fit. If you are seeking specialized knowledge to help you advance in your career, a certificate that covers a specific topic area may be best.

Last updated May 23, 2025