San Joaquin Valley College

Information Technology

Online Division
Visalia, CA
Certificate · On Campus
Information Technology
Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Taught on campus in Visalia, CA.
Not published
31 weeks
No application fee is charged.
Participates in federal aid: Pell & FSEO grants; Federal Direct Stafford (subsidized/unsubsidized) & PLUS loans; institutional low-interest loan; scholarships; VA benefits.

Information Technology is a Certificate program offered by San Joaquin Valley College in Visalia, CA. The program takes 31 weeks to complete, with a total cost, including fees, of $19,049.

Program Overview

The Information Technology (IT) program is 61 weeks in length and provides students with the knowledge and skills for a variety of entry-level careers in the Information Technology industry. Students who enroll in the program will take foundational courses in computer hardware, software, help desk, cloud computing, operating systems, networking, and security. They also get exposed to a real-world working environment and get experience in the field by completing a capstone help desk externship.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, the successful student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of hardware and software installation, maintenance, and support.
  • Design, manage, and secure networks using standard industry practices.
  • Use technical support and customer service best practices.
  • Troubleshoot, maintain, and secure PCs, mobile devices, and peripherals.
  • Implement cloud computing and virtualization solutions.
  • Relate and apply concepts of communication, reasoning, critical analysis, ethical behavior and appropriate interpersonal interaction to situations in his or her career and personal life.
  • Demonstrate the social skills, professional appearance, attitudes and behavior that employers expect of all SJVC graduates.

What Sets This Program Apart

Graduates earn an Associate of Science in Information Technology.

Admission Requirements & Process

Making the decision to go back to school is one of the biggest steps on your journey to enrolling. At SJVC, our admissions process is straightforward, and our Admissions Department is dedicated to helping prospective students select the programs that best suit their needs and qualifications.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
    Applicants must possess a high school diploma or the equivalent. International diplomas and transcripts must be translated into English and academically evaluated for equivalency…
  • Minimum Age
    Applicants must meet the minimum age requirement as defined by the state where they plan to attend SJVC: 16 in Arizona and Idaho, 17 in California and Nevada, and 18 in New…
  • Admissions Interview
    Applicants must participate in an interview with an Enrollment Services Associate. During the interview, the Enrollment Services Associate will discuss available programs,…
  • Wonderlic SLE-Q (Minimum 18)
    Applicants for all online programs are required to take the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest (SLE-Q) prior to enrolling; the minimum score for Information Technology is…
  • English Language Proficiency
    SJVC does not offer English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework; students are required to have proficiency in English as all instruction is presented in English. Proficiency may…
  • Acceptance Interview
    Applicants must meet with either the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. In addition to this interview, applicants…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Request Information
    Fill out the Request Information form. Once you do, an Admissions Representative will reach out to schedule you for a visit to one of our campuses, or to help you understand how our Online Programs work.
  2. 2
    Meet with Your Admissions Representative
    An online Enrollment Services Associate will interview you, discuss available programs, and help you select the program that aligns best with your career goals, training needs, and motivations.
  3. 3
    Take an Entrance Exam
    Complete the admissions assessment (Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam – QuickTest for online programs) and achieve the minimum required score for your program.
  4. 4
    Acceptance Interview
    Meet with the Enrollment Services Director or a campus manager (or their designee) for an acceptance interview. You may also be required to meet with the Director of your selected program.
  5. 5
    Meet with Financial Aid and Complete the FAFSA
    Meet with the Financial Services Department to confirm arrangements to meet tuition obligations. Our Financial Aid team can help you plan out how you will pay for college and identify aid you may qualify for.
    FAFSA Code for Online Division: 014741
    Fill Out the FAFSA
  6. 6
    Sign Your Enrollment Agreement
    Sign an Enrollment Agreement, which sets forth specific information such as start and graduation dates, tuition information, and academic schedule, and complete all enrollment documentation. Then ring the admissions bell to celebrate getting accepted!
  7. 7
    Attend New Student Orientation
    All new students must complete New Student Orientation prior to their first class session. The specific date, time and location of orientation will be provided during the admissions process.
  8. 8
    Start Class
    New students in an online course are required to post attendance by 11:59 p.m. (PST) on the second day of the module by submitting a gradable assignment; failure to do so will result in cancellation of the enrollment.

Program Schedule

61 weeks in length (Associate of Science). Offered to new students through the Online Division.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 09th, 2026
  • December 14th, 2026
  • January 25th, 2027
  • March 01st, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 14th, 2027
  • July 19th, 2027
  • August 23rd, 2027
  • September 27th, 2027
  • November 01st, 2027
  • December 06th, 2027

Cost of Attendance & Financial Aid

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Cost
≈ $19,049
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

SJVC participates in federal financial aid programs; students who wish to apply for financial aid assistance must establish financial aid eligibility each year. In order to determine financial aid eligibility, students must complete the application process, meet academic progress standards, and be enrolled at least part-time. Financial assistance awarded through SJVC may consist of a combination of grants, loans, and scholarships. SJVC participates with federal, state and private agencies in providing various aid programs.

Types of Financial Aid Available

  • Federal Pell Grant Program – an important source of aid for students who demonstrate a financial need; a grant does not have to be repaid.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants – a limited number of awards targeted to students who have the lowest calculated family income.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Subsidized) – for students requiring additional financial assistance; must be repaid, beginning six months after graduation or termination.
  • Federal Direct Stafford Loans (Unsubsidized) – independent students may borrow and begin interest payments while in school.
  • Federal Direct PLUS – parents of dependent students may borrow funds to meet educational expenses.
  • Institutional Loan – the College offers a low-interest loan program used only to pay tuition charges not covered by financial aid.
  • Student Scholarships – the College awards up to $40,000 annually in scholarships to high school seniors who meet certain requirements.

Total program tuition is $19,049 (tuition only; any fees billed separately).

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
BUSN 120Business Communication3
COMP 101Computer Literacy & Applications for the Professional3
COMP 108Computer Hardware3
COMP 109Computer Software3
COMP 110Introduction to Cloud Computing2
COMP 111Fundamentals of Operating Systems3
COMP 125Networking Essentials2
COMP 126Introduction to Security3
COMP 127Help Desk Fundamentals2
IFT 80Capstone & Student Help Desk6
IFT 91Externship4
IFT 92Applied Theory: Integrated Learning & Practice2

Career Outcomes

The Career Services Department offers a wide variety of career planning and employment-related services to current SJVC students and alumni. While SJVC does not guarantee employment, income, or wage rate, Career Services staff are available to assist students in developing job-readiness skills and pursuing employment in their chosen career fields. Some of the services offered include:

  • Résumé development
  • Job search assistance
  • Interview techniques
  • Career development courses
  • Career information panels
  • Employment-related workshops and programs

Career Academy

The Career Services Department partners students with the Career Academy to prepare students for the job search process. Utilizing an innovative, interactive hub, students will:

  • Engage in a variety of professional development games and activities.
  • Create high-quality professional résumés highlighting the skills acquired throughout their program.
  • Participate in mock interview sessions to develop effective interviewing skills.

A final exit interview will capstone the student's preparedness for interviewing with potential employers. Successful completion of each of these items is a graduation requirement.

What to Expect as a Student at San Joaquin Valley College

Housing

San Joaquin Valley College does not have dormitory facilities under its control, nor does it assist students in securing housing. However, limited guidance may be available through the Academic Dean to help students explore local housing options. According to the California Student Aid Commission's 2025–26 Student Expense Budget, students should budget approximately $1,691 per month for housing, which includes rent and utilities. These estimates are intended to help students plan their budgets and do not reflect actual housing offers or guarantees; students are solely responsible for evaluating and securing their own housing arrangements.

Additional Information and Student Services

Additional information related to the provision of student services and campus life in general may be found in the Student Handbook.

Location

Online Division
3828 W. Caldwell Ave.
Visalia, CA 93277

Accreditation & Approvals

Institutional Accreditation: San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, (510) 748-9001. WSCUC.org. The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.

SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5 – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are the programs?
In most programs, students can earn a certificate of completion in as few as 9 months, or an associate of science degree in as few as 14 months. This is a short-term investment that gives our graduates a long-term career advantage.
How much does it cost?
Tuition varies by campus, program of study and program credential level. Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Consumer Information to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Representative to discuss the costs of your chosen program, and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer.
Will I fit in?
Our students are all unique, but most will agree that SJVC made them feel like they fit right in thanks to the family-like atmosphere you can find on all of our campuses.
What kinds of career training do you offer?
SJVC offers more than 20 highly specialized, short-term career education programs on 15 campuses located throughout California — in addition to an online division. You can earn your associate of science degree or certificate in a wide variety of medical, dental, business, industrial and trades programs. Our programs offer the right balance of hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare you for success in your chosen career.
When do classes start?
Start dates for specific programs vary by campus, but classes begin year-round. Contact your local campus or our online division to find out when your chosen program begins — the best time to start is now!
What is the class schedule like?
SJVC’s ground campuses offer morning, afternoon or evening classes for many programs. Students in online programs learn from and communicate with their instructors on a flexible schedule. When you meet with your Admissions Representative, they can give you specific information on the programs and campus you’re most interested in.
Can I take classes online?
Yes. SJVC offers several programs online, including: • Business Office Administration • Construction Management • Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science • Health Care Management Bachelor of Science • Human Resources Administration • Information Technology • Clinical Medical Assisting • Medical Billing and Coding • Respiratory Therapy Bachelor of Science In some programs, students at our ground campuses in California may also take certain classes online. This helps students improve their technology skills and allows for schedule flexibility. Learn more about our online programs.
Do you offer financial assistance?
There are a variety of financial aid programs available to SJVC students. Financing your education can be accomplished through several options, including: Grants, scholarships, student loans, private financing and payment plans. Contact an Admissions Representative to set up your financial aid consultation. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
What job opportunities will be waiting for me when I graduate?
SJVC works with local employers to find out what job skills are in high demand. Our hands-on training gives you the skills and experience you need to compete in today’s job market. The Career Services Department works with all graduates to help them find a job in their chosen career. Visit our Consumer Information page or the page of the program you’re interested in to learn about common jobs our students are placed in after graduation.
Can I do it?
We are here to see you succeed. SJVC believes in our students. Our faculty and staff will help you stay on the path to success from the moment you first speak with an Admissions Representative to graduation and into your career. SJVC is committed to the success of every student.
Can I attend information technology school online?
Yes. San Joaquin Valley College offers its Information Technology program in a fully online format, making it one of many information technology online programs that allow you to build technical skills while learning from home.
Do you need a degree to work in IT?
Requirements can vary by role and employer. Some entry-level IT positions may accept a certificate or associate degree, while others may prefer more advanced education. Building practical skills and working toward industry-recognized certifications can also help demonstrate your knowledge.
What is information technology?
Information technology (IT) refers to the use of computer systems and networks to store, retrieve, and share information. The field includes areas like networking, system support, and cybersecurity, and supports the day-to-day technology needs of many industries.
What can you do with an information technology degree?
Graduates of San Joaquin Valley College’s Information Technology program may pursue entry-level roles such as: • Computer User Support Specialist • Computer Network Support Specialist • Information Security Analysts • Network and Computer Systems Administrators These roles typically involve troubleshooting, assisting users, and helping maintain computer systems and networks.
What is the difference between computer science and information technology?
For those researching information technology certificate programs, you may be wondering what the difference is between these fields. Computer science centers on building and developing software, applications, and systems. Information technology focuses on using, maintaining, and supporting those systems, helping organizations keep their technology running and users supported.
What is the best IT degree to have?
The “best” IT degree depends on your goals. For many students starting out, a certificate or associate degree in information technology can help build foundational skills in areas like networking, system support, and troubleshooting. From there, some may choose to continue their education or pursue certifications based on their interests.
Is it hard to pass an IT course?
IT courses can be challenging, especially if you’re new to technical concepts. However, with consistent study, practice, and support, many students are able to build confidence over time. Programs are typically structured to introduce concepts step by step so you can develop skills gradually.
Is an IT degree hard?
An IT degree requires time, effort, and problem-solving, but it’s designed to be approachable for beginners. You’ll learn how to work with systems, troubleshoot issues, and understand networks. Staying organized and practicing regularly can help you succeed throughout the program.
What are common admission requirements for a degree in information technology?
Admission requirements can vary by school, but they often include a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of an enrollment process. To learn more about getting started, visit the SJVC Admissions page for details on requirements and next steps.
Are online IT programs a good option?
Online formats are a common option for students exploring online information technology programs, especially those who need flexibility. Many online information technology programs are designed to deliver structured learning while helping students build practical technical skills.
Ready to get started?
Request information about Information Technology at Online Division.
Information Technology