Intro
Maricopa Community Colleges’ IT Fundamentals Microcredential Pathway equips students with both a foundational understanding of essential IT skills required for entry-level technician roles as well as the professional skills that employers are seeking such as communication, empathy, professionalism, and more.
By completing this microcredential pathway, students will earn two open digital badges and will be prepared to sit for the CompTIA Tech+ certification exam. At some of our colleges, students may also earn a Certificate of Completion (CCL). Join our IT Fundamentals Microcredential Pathway and gain the skills you need to get started in a variety of industries!
Tuition reimbursement is available to cover the full in-state tuition for this pathway, allowing you to enroll at no cost to you! Funding is subject to availability.
How does this pathway prepare you for the workforce?
This pathway creates an inclusive learning environment for a diverse audience of technicians spanning HVAC, healthcare, manufacturing, telecom, and more. Addressing industry demands to equip the workforce with fundamental IT skills, ensuring proactive career readiness. Recognizing the increasing demand for essential IT skills in diverse industries, this program equips people employed as technicians to navigate the fundamentals of information technology. This microcredential pathway is aligned with MCCCD’s mission to provide proactive career readiness for in demand fields.
Pathway Information
This microcredential pathway is offered through one 3-credit course that includes workforce professional skills offered by Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Glendale Community College, Mesa Community College, and Rio Salado College. These courses are:
CIS101: Technician IT Fundamentals (3 Credits)
Survey of computer fundamentals. Focus on basic knowledge and skills, including components and hardware, word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, and email.
Upcoming Spring 2026 Courses:
- March 23 - May 15 | Online | Glendale Community College
- March 23 - May 15 | Online | Mesa Community College
- Start any Monday between January 12 and April 27 | Online | Rio Salado College
Workforce Professional Skills
This section includes five modules that prepare students for employment. The course covers the necessary skills for all types of employment, such as communication, empathy, professionalism, collaboration, initiative, critical thinking, problem-solving, and more.
Note: Not all course offerings are part of a microcredential pathway. Please verify in the Course Notes that the section number you are enrolling in is eligible for the pathway you'd like to pursue.
This course can be completed in 1 semester, depending on course availability.
$306 for students eligible for Maricopa County resident tuition.
(3 credits at $97 per credit hour + $15 registration fee)
Students enrolled in this microcredential pathway may be reimbursed for the cost of in-state tuition upon successful completion of the class at 70% or higher. Students must also earn an 80% or higher on the Workforce Professional Skills final exam and an 80% or higher on the IT Fundamentals final exam to qualify for reimbursement. Funding is subject to availability.
This microcredential pathway provides the foundational skills for entry-level technician employment in a variety of industries. Upon completion of this pathway, you will be able to:
- Enter the workforce directly after completing the training.
- Earn 2 open digital badges that demonstrate your understanding of each topic.*
- Continue your education and stack your credentials into a certificate or degree!
*Earning an open digital badge provides a portable and verifiable way to showcase skills and achievements. These badges can be easily shared online across various platforms, enhancing one's digital presence and credibility.
What You’ll Learn
The microcredentials and badges included within this microcredential pathway certify your proficiency in essential skills for today's workforce, ranging from IT fundamentals to professional skills for succeeding in the workplace. Each badge represents hands-on experience and demonstrated expertise.
The IT Fundamentals microcredential signifies knowledge of basic IT skills necessary for employment as a technician in a variety of industries. This includes:
- Spreadsheet manipulation
- Word processing
- Presentation creation
- Efficient file management
- Basic operating system navigation
- Introductory database management
This microcredential also helps students prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ Certification.
The criteria for earning the badge include:
Successfully passing the final exam with a grade of 80% or higher
The Workforce Professional Skills microcredential is developed to equip individuals with the essential skills vital for thriving in today's dynamic workplace environment. This credential encompasses a blend of theoretical understanding and assessment to ensure participants are adeptly prepared to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented in various professional settings. Key focus areas of this microcredential include Communication, Empathy, Professionalism, Collaboration, Initiative, Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving, Self-Directed Learning, and Resilience.
In response to industry demand, the course has been updated to include foundational training in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), virtual meeting etiquette, and public speaking, further strengthening the application of core professional skills.The criteria for earning the badge includes:
Successfully passing the final exam with a grade of 80% or higher.