Aurora Schools with Computer Technology Programs
In Aurora, Colorado, students can choose to begin their postsecondary education with a certificate or associate-level program in computer technology. This article looks at two schools that are no more than 10 minutes from the city center and the programs they offer. It also includes a table of information that prospective students should consider when choosing a school, such as costs, enrollment figures and the graduation rate.
- At Pickens Technical College, just three miles from downtown, adults and high school students can pursue a cyber technician certificate program.
- Featuring articulation agreements with local, Denver-area 4-year colleges, the Community College of Aurora offers an Associate of Applied Science as well as several specialized certificate programs in computer information systems. It is only four miles from downtown Aurora.
Comparison of Schools
Students need to be aware of many factors when choosing a school for their training. This table presents important information in a format that makes it easy to compare these schools.
| Pickens Technical College | Community College of Aurora | |
|---|---|---|
| School Type | Less-than-2-year public technical college | 2-year public community college |
| Total Enrollment (Fall 2019)* | 1,049 | 8,597 |
| Campus Setting | Large city | Large City |
| Tuition (2019-2020) | $4,510 in-state; $7,990 out-of-state* |
$3,840 in-state; $14,928 out-of-state* |
| % of Beginning Undergraduate Students Receiving Financial Aid (2018-2019)* | 54% | 68% |
| Acceptance Rate* | Open Admission | Open Admission |
| Retention Rate (2018-2019)* | 69% full-time; 77% part-time |
65% full-time; 49% part-time |
| Graduation Rate (for students who began their studies in 2016)* | 69% | 21% |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
Pickens Technical College
Pickens Technical College offers a variety of diploma and certificate programs geared to prepare students for further postsecondary education or workforce development. Students can complete programs designed for transfer to Associate of Applied Science programs at Community College of Aurora.
Cyber Technician Certificate
This program is designed to prepare students for examinations in Network+, Security+ and CompTIA A+. Students will learn about firewalls, Windows, Linux and data securitization. Additional areas include network security basics, information assurance and computer information systems. The program entails 600 clock hours with a total of 31 credit hours.
Community College of Aurora
The Community College of Aurora is a member of the Colorado Community College system with campus locations throughout Aurora and Denver. The computer department offers a variety of certificate and associate degree programs, as well as a computer laboratory at the Lowry Campus.
Certificate of Completion in IT Tech and Support
The 22-credit IT Tech and Support certificate features coursework in computer information systems and operating systems. Students are also able to use the program as a stepping stone toward an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in IT Tech and Support at the college. Other certificate programs include PC application specialist, basic networking and security, CISCO and office administration.
Associate of Applied Sciences in Computer Information Systems
Students seeking an associate's degree for professional preparation or transfer to a 4-year degree program can complete the AAS in Computer Information Systems with courses covering systems analysis, personal computer applications, networking and SQL. Other program courses include information systems management, programming and technology for career development.
