Frequently Asked Questions
- I (have little to no) (don’t have much) computer experience, will I be successful in the program?
- Do I have to quit my job to go to school?
- Will PC ProSchools help me get a job after I graduate?
- Is PC ProSchools an accredited school?
- How do I apply to PC ProSchools?
- How will I pay for my education?
- What are the admission requirements to be considered for the program?
- What type of jobs will I be trained to do?
- What kind of salary can I expect to earn in my new IT job?
- How do certifications compare to a degree?
- I (have little to no) (don’t have much) computer experience, will I be successful in the program?
Yes! PC ProSchools prides itself in our multi-sensory learning approach that allows for all types of learners and all skill levels. Our proven methods offer you the opportunity to learn the concepts via readings for instructor lead lecture, industry supported textbooks, hands-on practice or any combination of the three. No matter what your computer experience we know how to teach you so you can learn.
- Do I have to quit my job to go to school?
Absolutely not! PC ProSchools understands the demands the working adults and offers flexible evening, daytime and weekend schedules to allow you to continue working while in school. 78% of PC ProSchools’ students work while attending PC ProSchools. In fact, many students are offered IT jobs before they even graduate so many do quit their current job to begin their new career in IT before class is done.
- Will PC ProSchools help me get a job after I graduate?
Yes! While PC ProSchools, or any school by law cannot guarantee you a job or a specific salary, we are accredited by ACCET. Therefore, we are required to maintain a minimum of a 70% placement rate. We continue to achieve and exceed this minimum each year. PC ProSchools has a team of Career Advisors dedicated to helping you land your first job in IT. Career development courses will teach you how to create a technical resume, how to interview successfully and those soft skills that employers desire. In addition, our career advisors are busy networking with area businesses and IT managers on your behalf to gain the inside advantage on job opportunities for you.
- Is PC ProSchools an accredited school?
Yes. PC ProSchools is accredited as a private vocational school through ACCET, a non-profit accrediting body governed by the US Department of Education. But what does that mean to you? Well, by meeting the ACCET Standards for Accreditation, the PC ProSchools program offerings and services must be represented in an ethical manner. In order to remain accredited, there are minimum standards for graduation and placement, both of which PC ProSchools has not only met but far exceeded.
- How do I apply to PC ProSchools?
In order to start the application process, you must first attend an information seminar.
- How will I pay for my education?
Despite the media buzz about student financing, paying for your education at PC ProSchools has never been easier. PC ProSchools has programs to fit everyone, no matter what your credit history is. See your academic advisor for more information and financial aid applications.
- What are the admission requirements to be considered for the program?
Students must be 18 years of age or older to enroll, must provide proof of a high school diploma or GED, pass an entrance exam comprised of the Readi Exam, and a background/reference check. Certain misdemeanors and felonies may prevent student admission. PC ProSchools requires the student obtain a Windows® based PC for at home use by class start date, in order to facilitate outside study, assignments, practice and review. Some previous computer or computer networking experience is helpful, but not required. A basic understanding of computers and concepts, and familiarity with a mouse and keyboard are ideal. Students do not receive credit for previous career/computer experience or training.
- What type of jobs will I be trained to do?
PC ProSchools knows that IT is one of the fastest growing industries in the US and has targeted the very jobs in that industry that are highest in demand and offer great salaries. At PC ProSchools, you will be trained to hold job titles such as Help Desk Support Specialist, Network/System Administrator or PC Technician. In each of these roles you will be providing the valuable support to all industries so you can work in a hospital, office building or in the field. When email is down, believe us, you will be the most popular person at work!
- What kind of salary can I expect to earn in my new IT job?
According to the US Department of Labor, IT professionals in careers such as help desk and system administration earned between $33,680-$55,990 if they were in the middle 50%. IT professionals in careers such as network administration earned between $51,690 and $84,110 if they were in the middle 50%. PC ProSchools cannot guarantee a job or a specific salary. However, in 2008 and 2009 the average starting salary of a PC Pro graduate was $33,779 annually.
- How do certifications compare to a degree?
Think of it this way, to be a lawyer you have to pass the Bar exam, to be an accountant you have to pass the CPA exam. The education you received prepared you for these careers but the certification exams are the right of passage to be able to practice these trades. They mean you know what you are talking about! Let’s face it, we live in a service driven economy, whether you are a doctor, teacher, IT professional, you are providing an important service to society. Your education is critical to your success. A degree program will offer you a general knowledge of the field you are entering. PC ProSchools does not underestimate the value of a well rounded education as achieved through a degree program. A certification program as offered at PC ProSchools is a specialized program. It focuses on the skills you need to perform these roles and passing that certification exam shows that you are an expert in that area. A certification means you are ready to do the job! So who do you think employers want, someone who has a general knowledge of IT or a certified professional ready to take on their network?