IT Support Specialist Certificate: Break Into IT in 24 Weeks
No tech background required. NLU's IT Support Specialist Certificate gives you hands-on skills to land an IT support job, with CompTIA A+ prep, real employer connections, and up to 25 transferable college credits. Pell grant eligible.
- CompTIA A+ Prep Included
- Priority Employer Placement
- 25 Transferable College Credits
- Pell Grant Eligible (Possible $0)
Request More Information
Program at a Glance
What You'll Learn
- Troubleshoot computer hardware, software, and networks
- Support users through help desk and ticketing systems
- Prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification
- Gain hands-on experience through an employer practicum
- Earn 25 credits toward a bachelor's degree
- Qualify for priority placement with employer partners
Full Course List
Next start: September 21, 2026 — seats filling fast.
Admissions Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (no prior college required)
- No prior technology experience required
- Online application at nl.edu (no application fee)
- An advisor confirms Pell grant eligibility
- Almost 100% online with an employer practicum
The only prerequisite is a high school diploma or GED. This is built for career changers from any field.
CompTIA A+ prep is built in, the most recognized entry-level IT certification, preparing you inside a supported program.
25 college credits transfer toward a future bachelor's, so this certificate launches your career and your education at once.
Where Will Your Certificate Take You?
The IT Support Specialist Certificate prepares you for help desk, IT support, and technical support roles, with priority consideration for NLU employer partners. From there, A+ is the natural stepping stone to Network+, Security+, and higher-paying IT specializations.
Computer user support specialists earn a median salary of $60,340 (BLS, May 2024), well above the median for all occupations. Industry data shows 27 percent of A+ holders earned promotions and 35 percent received raises of 20 percent or more (Pearson VUE, 2023).
How to Apply in 3 Simple Steps
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Request Information
Submit the form above. An NLU Accelerate U advisor will reach out within one business day.
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Connect With an Advisor
Your advisor walks you through Pell grant eligibility, CompTIA A+ prep, and employer partner placement.
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Apply and Start Classes
Submit your application at nl.edu with no application fee. Next start: September 21, 2026. Your advisor guides you from enrollment to your first class.
Take the First Step
No commitment required. An NLU Accelerate U advisor will reach out within one business day to confirm your Pell eligibility and start date.
Take the First Step- CompTIA A+ Prep Included
- Priority Employer Placement
- 25 Transferable College Credits
- Pell Grant Eligible (Possible $0)
*Salary data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer User Support Specialists (SOC 15-1232), May 2024.
**Credential outcomes: Pearson VUE CompTIA A+ Student Survey, 2023.
***Program structure: National Louis University Accelerate U IT Support Specialist Certificate program sheet.