CompTIA A+

Who is it for? Adult learner 19+, beginner Qualification: CompTIA A+ Location: Distance Learning Start date: Ongoing Duration: 160 recommended study hours – two years' tutorial support

Develop proficiency across multiple technologies

Gain your CompTIA A+ certification and you'll have the world standard entry-level qualification for computer technicians and engineers that's recognised by employers everywhere.

A+ certification covers numerous technologies and operating systems from such vendors as Microsoft, Apple Inc., Novell and some Linux variations.

Boost your CV and take the next step in your career

This course develops a thorough understanding of hardware and software by taking you through the processes involved in building, installing, configuring and upgrading computer systems.

By the end of the syllabus you will be ready to take the A+ exams - leading to CompTIA A+ Certified Professional status - and apply for roles as a computer technician or engineer.

View a short selection of our Course Content and Sample Materials for CompTIA A+ in PC Support and Repair.

Course Snapshot

• Level 2 qualification – comparable to studying at GCSE or higher diploma level
• Accredited by CompTIA
• Entry requirements: An existing Level 1 qualification or confidence working on computers is essential
• Five books containing two modules and 22 assignments
• Two exams taken at an external assessment centre:
  CompTIA Level 2 Essentials Exam 220-701
  CompTIA Level 2 Practical Application Exam 220-702
• Approximately 160 recommended study hours
• Flexible payment options
• Pathway option available – take advantage of two courses in one economical package
• It is essential that you have a PC with the Windows Vista Home Premium operating system or higher

 What's Included?

• Two years' unlimited tutorial support
• Bespoke course materials written by industry experts
• Exam fees
• Exam booking service
• 24 hour access to the Home Learning College Virtual Learning Community
  – the UK’s biggest online campus
• Free Career Management Centre services
• Optional access to student rewards
• Optional NUS card - the definitive student discount card with a range of exclusive discounts

An existing Level 1 qualification or confidence working on computers is essential - the A+ exam is intended for information technology professionals who have the equivalent of 500 hours of hands on experience.

Before you enrol on a Home Learning College Course, please ensure that you have read and understood the pre-requirements below:

• You have a valid UK address (students outside the UK will receive an additional postage charge).
• You are over the age of 18 or have a third party payee for any financial agreement.
• You have a solid grasp of the English language.
• You have access to a computer and the internet throughout your study period.
• You have basic PC skills in order to navigate our Virtual Learning Community.
• You are fully committed to your studies.

System Requirements

To check your computer is compatible with the software provided with this course please review our Computer Compatibility and Specification Requirements.

Did you know that one of the most common challenges people face in pursuing education is the cost?

That’s why Home Learning College has developed the most flexible payment terms of any other UK distance learning provider.

• Pay in full now and receive 20% off the price

You can split your course fees over one, two or three instalments at no extra charge and still benefit from the 20% discount.

Alternatively you can choose a payment plan that works for you:

• 12 months at 0% APR
• 24 months at 9.9% APR

Speak to one of our course advisers for further details.

Pathway Option

Designed to help you fast track your career, our pathway packages combine the courses you need to gain the wider job opportunities and higher earning capacity you want.

Our CompTIA A+ including Strata Fundamentals course is ideal if you don’t currently have the knowledge or experience to enrol directly on the A+ course, and will teach the fundamentals of computing before moving on to more advanced tasks.

Alternatively, you can combine A+ with CompTIA Network+ which will develop your skills to the point where you will be a recognised networking specialist.

With this accreditation you will be able to apply for jobs as a Computer Technician or Engineer, commanding a potential salary of up to £25,000* per annum.

If you choose to continue along the CompTIA career progression pathway, you will enjoy a profession with great earning potential and career opportunities.

*Source: CWJobs.co.uk and Totaljobs.com - Salary Checker May 2011.

Successful completion of this course leads to CompTIA A+ Certified Professional Certification. Qualification at this level demonstrates a clear understanding of computer maintenance, as well as your commitment to the subject and your personal development.

From here you can progress to CompTIA N+, which covers the essentials of network support and implementation. You can also use your A+ certification to enrol on vendor-specific courses such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Cisco and Novell.

As with all major IT accreditations, CompTIA Certification must be renewed every three years to ensure that knowledge and skills remain up to date with current trends. This can be done via a short bridging exam, through CompTIA’s Continuous Education Programme or by taking the latest full A+ exam.

CompTIA certifications are approved in England for the Qualificaiton & Credit Framework (QCF).