Information Technology Operations Professional Certificate

Students who complete the IT Operations Professional Certificate will be able to:

1. Assess, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot end-user devices, operating systems, applications, and peripheral hardware using systematic support procedures.
2. Configure and troubleshoot network connectivity and core network services for small- to medium-sized organizational environments.
3. Administer endpoint, server, and platform services across Windows, Linux, and virtualized/cloud environments using appropriate configuration, automation, backup, and recovery practices.
4. Apply baseline cybersecurity controls to protect devices, accounts, data, and networked resources.
5. Implement identity, access, and policy controls in organizational IT environments, using directory, endpoint, and system administration tools.
6. Produce clear technical documentation and communicate effectively with users, peers, and supervisors through support records, diagrams, procedures, reports, and professional interactions.
7. Apply structured problem solving, industry-informed practices, and professional communication skills in workplace-relevant IT scenarios.

Students will engage with the material in this program through a combination of hands on and scenario-based activities. For example, students will role-play consulting on a required PC build, take apart and then reassemble a computer, build a VPN with a given configuration, install a Windows server, and configure a basic group policy setup within an active directory environment. A strong emphasis will be placed on practicing different troubleshooting strategies in order to resolve realistic IT related problems.

Class-time will utilize active-learning strategies such as problem-based learning, simulations, and case studies. Classes will be delivered in a computer lab. Some classes may be delivered partially or fully online.

The Endpoint and Device Management Award of Achievement is built into the program. This Award of Achievement is a stackable credential. After completing the three required courses, you'll earn an Award of Achievement and can apply those courses toward the Information Technology Operations (ITOP) Certificate, allowing you to continue building your skills and earn credentials.

Students should consider the following aspects of this program: 

• Learning environment requires extended periods (e.g. 3 - 5 hours per day) of computer use with sustained visual focus on digital displays and repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements with hardware devices, such as keyboard, mouse, switches, routers, cables, and small tools.  

• Program tasks require access to a modern laptop capable of running Microsoft Windows and Linux operating system with full privileges. Online classes require audio-video hardware including webcam, speakers, and microphone. For details and minimum hardware requirements, please refer to the program’s technology requirements document. 

• If you have a disability or diagnosis and think you might face challenges with any of the listed program considerations, please contact disabilityservices@vcc.ca or 604.871.7500 to explore possible accommodations/supports.