2-Year Diploma in IT Support and Maintenance

Course Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters, including holidays and attachment)
Course Fee: 30,000 Kenyan Shillings per semester
Weekly Commitment: Minimum of 2 hours per day
Course Overview:
This diploma program focuses on the essential skills required for IT support and maintenance. It covers various aspects of computer systems, networking, and troubleshooting, preparing students for roles in IT support, system administration, and technical maintenance.

Year 1

Semester 1: Fundamentals of IT Support

Week 1-4: Introduction to IT Support

Overview of IT Support and Maintenance
Understanding Hardware and Software Components
Basic Computer Troubleshooting Techniques
Practical Exercises: Setting up and configuring computer systems

Week 5-8: Operating Systems

Introduction to Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
Installation, Configuration, and Management of OS
Troubleshooting OS Issues and System Recovery
Practical Exercises: Installing and managing different operating systems

Week 9-12: Networking Basics

Introduction to Networking Concepts
Networking Devices and Protocols (Routers, Switches, TCP/IP)
Configuring and Troubleshooting Network Connections
Practical Exercises: Setting up and managing small networks

Week 13-16: Computer Hardware Maintenance

Understanding Computer Hardware Components
Diagnosing and Repairing Hardware Issues
Preventive Maintenance and Upgrades
Practical Exercises: Disassembling, diagnosing, and repairing hardware components

Semester 2: Advanced IT Support

Week 1-4: Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

In-Depth Troubleshooting Strategies
Using Diagnostic Tools and Utilities
Resolving Complex Software and Hardware Issues
Practical Exercises: Handling advanced troubleshooting scenarios

Week 5-8: System and Network Security

Introduction to IT Security Concepts
Implementing Security Measures (Antivirus, Firewalls, Encryption)
Managing User Access and Permissions
Practical Exercises: Securing computer systems and networks

Week 9-12: IT Support for Business Applications

Supporting Business Software (Office Suites, ERP Systems)
Troubleshooting Application Issues
Managing Software Updates and Patches
Practical Exercises: Providing support for various business applications

Week 13-16: IT Service Management

Introduction to IT Service Management (ITSM)
Understanding Service Desk Operations and Best Practices
Implementing ITIL Framework and Processes
Practical Exercises: Managing IT service requests and incidents

Year 2

Semester 3: Specialized IT Support

Week 1-4: Advanced Networking

Advanced Networking Concepts and Technologies
Configuring and Managing Enterprise Networks
Network Security and VPNs
Practical Exercises: Setting up and managing advanced network configurations

Week 5-8: Cloud Computing and Virtualization

Introduction to Cloud Computing and Virtualization Technologies
Managing Cloud Services and Virtual Machines
Implementing Virtualization Solutions (VMware, Hyper-V)
Practical Exercises: Configuring and managing cloud and virtual environments

Week 9-12: Backup and Disaster Recovery

Strategies for Data Backup and Recovery
Implementing Disaster Recovery Plans
Testing and Validating Backup Solutions
Practical Exercises: Setting up backup and recovery solutions

Week 13-16: Emerging Technologies

Exploring Emerging Technologies in IT Support
Impact of Technologies like AI, IoT, and Big Data
Preparing for Future Trends in IT Support
Practical Exercises: Adapting to new technologies and trends

Semester 4: Capstone Project and Industry Attachment

Week 1-4: Capstone Project

Identifying a Real-World IT Support Problem
Project Planning, Design, and Implementation
Presentation and Evaluation of Capstone Project
Final Assessment

Week 5-8: Industry Attachment

Hands-On Experience in IT Support Roles
Applying Learned Skills in Real-World IT Environments
Industry Networking and Professional Development

Week 9-12: Professional Development and Career Planning

Building a Professional Portfolio and Resume
Job Search Strategies and Interview Preparation
Understanding Industry Certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+, etc.)

Week 13-16: Course Review and Final Exam

Comprehensive Review of All Topics Covered
Practice Projects and Final Assessments
Final Exam and Evaluation

Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive a "Diploma in IT Support and Maintenance," certifying their expertise in IT support, system maintenance, and related technologies. This certification prepares them for roles such as IT Support Specialist, Systems Administrator, and Technical Support Engineer.