Online IT Computer Courses Overview

Online information technology (IT) computer courses can be taken alone or as part of a degree program. During information technology courses, students can learn how to configure a firewall, set up a printer or establish a database management system. These classes prepare prospective IT professionals for positions as help desk technicians, network managers and database specialists.

Overview of Online IT Computer Courses

Online IT computer courses can be found in certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Graduates may earn a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology or a Master of Arts in Information Technology. Online IT computer courses within a degree program advance in level of difficulty as the program progresses. After completion of relevant computer courses, IT professionals may hold positions in computer networking, development, programming or administration.

Common Course Requirements

Students taking online IT computer courses must have access to and be comfortable with the Internet. They should have a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word, and an e-mail account is needed for class correspondence.
A more technical course may ask students to install a database management system, design software or development software on their computers before beginning the course. Most online courses require plug-ins for Adobe Acrobat Reader and sometimes Adobe Flash. Some virtual classes offer 24/7 help desk support to answer any technology-related questions.

List of Online IT Computer Courses

Introductory Information Systems Course

This beginner online course explains how software and hardware factor into the function and efficiency of computer systems. Students examine basic operating systems and learn to develop computer applications. This online course is common for those with little or no information technology background.

Computer Networking Course

Networking allows an IT professional to establish digital subscriber lines (DSL), such as those used by Internet service providers. This introductory online course trains students to configure networking systems for individuals and businesses, exploring servers and the Ethernet. Computer networking is one of several fundamental courses that prospective IT professionals take.

Computer Programming Course

Online computer programming courses are available at all experience levels. Many of them lead to certification in areas like Java, object-oriented programming (OOP) and C++. The course discusses computer memory, C language programming, servers and operating system platforms. Some online computer programming courses include Microsoft Developers Network Academic Alliance (MDNAA) software, which has Microsoft-specific and Windows operating system material.

Information Technology Management Course

This advanced online course is for IT professionals in management positions. The online IT management course focuses on leadership, team-building and problem-solving strategies for IT issues. Other topics include employment law, budget and negotiation.