Southern State announces new career enhancement certificates available in August
By Elizabeth Burkard
Director of Marketing
Southern State Community College
Southern State Community College is pleased to announce two new certificates now available to students under the Computer Science department: Datacenter Specialist and Technical Support. These certificates can be completed in less than one year. Students can now enroll with classes set to begin August 24, 2026.
The Datacenter Specialist Certificate prepares students for entry-level employment in data centers, network operations, or organizations that require skilled computer and network support technicians.
This program emphasizes hands-on experience with PC hardware, operating systems, server administration, networking fundamentals, and aligns with CompTIA's industry certifications including A+ and provides the foundational knowledge to pursue Cisco CCNA certification.
Students also benefit from embedded career-readiness competencies through the Professionalism course. If students choose to transition into a degree program within the Information Technology pathway, they should be aware of key choice points that allow smooth transfer of credits and ensure time-to-completion is maintained. Students will also gain essential professional and soft skills to prepare them for success in the information technology field.
The Technical Support Certificate prepares students for entry-level employment in computer support and information technology environments. This program emphasizes hands-on experience with PC hardware, operating systems, and essential troubleshooting skills. Students will gain practical knowledge in diagnostics, system configuration, and peripheral maintenance while developing the professional skills needed for success in today's IT workplace.
This short-term certificate can be completed in one semester and provides foundational preparation for CompTIA A+ certification and related industry credentials. It also includes embedded career-readiness competencies through the Professionalism course, ensuring students are well-prepared to enter the workforce or continue into an associate degree program within the Information Technology pathway.
To learn more about these career enhancement certifications, please email Computer Science Professor Dr. Joshua Montgomery at jmontgomery@sscc.edu.
Classes begin August 24 and registration is underway. Visit SSCC online at www.sscc.edu today.