Note: This program is an exam-preparation course for the CompTIA A+ (Core 1 & Core 2) Certification. It does not include the official CompTIA A+ exam. Learners who complete the specialization will be fully prepared to register and sit for the certification exam separately through CompTIA.
Introduction
In most districts, IT teams juggle everything from student device management to network security. The best teams don’t just fix problems—they train for what’s next. If you’ve been searching for a way to strengthen your foundational skills and validate your knowledge, the IBM Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization, offered by SchoolDay Academy and powered by Coursera, delivers the right mix of depth and flexibility.
Over just four weeks (about 10 hours a week), you’ll explore the full range of CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 domains—from hardware and networking to operating systems and security—through guided labs and mock exams. The goal: help you master key IT support skills and prepare to pass both CompTIA A+ certification exams with confidence.
Why This Course Matters
District IT environments are complex—thousands of devices, multiple OS platforms, and 24/7 uptime expectations. This specialization helps IT staff refresh and extend the practical, vendor-neutral skills that keep operations running.
With this program, you can:
- Reinforce core troubleshooting abilities across Windows, macOS, and mobile systems.
- Practice real repair scenarios in networking, storage, and hardware components.
- Strengthen cybersecurity awareness by applying security protocols and data-destruction policies.
- Build confidence for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 exams, recognized worldwide as the standard for entry-level IT proficiency.
It’s a focused, affordable way to upskill your district IT team without pulling them away from mission-critical work.
What You’ll Learn
This three-course series, developed by the IBM Skills Network Team, provides a structured path to certification readiness:
- Core 1: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting – Diagnose issues with laptops, mobile devices, video, power, and peripherals.
- Core 2: Operating Systems, Software, and Security – Configure and secure Windows, macOS, and mobile environments; manage Active Directory and access controls.
- Practice Exams for CompTIA A+ (Core 1 & Core 2) – Take timed mock tests to measure your progress and close knowledge gaps.
You’ll build skills in system configuration, network administration, OS management, and data security, while earning an IBM Career Certificate that confirms your professional development.
Disclaimer: Completion of this specialization does not grant CompTIA A+ certification. You’ll be fully prepared to schedule the official Core 1 and Core 2 exams separately through CompTIA.
Real-World Impact
District IT staff who complete this specialization can:
- Diagnose and repair student and staff devices more efficiently.
- Standardize help-desk workflows and improve response times.
- Strengthen security practices for multi-user environments.
- Serve as in-house mentors for CTE students pursuing technology pathways.
It’s an investment that improves both professional capability and district resilience.
Why SchoolDay Academy Recommends This Course
SchoolDay Academy (SDA) curates Coursera’s top-rated certifications to help districts meet evolving technology demands. The IBM Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization is ideal for IT professionals seeking practical, credential-aligned training that fits around busy schedules.
Through SDA, districts can:
- Provide centralized enrollment and progress tracking for IT teams.
- Validate skills with IBM credentials before employees pursue full CompTIA certification.
- Align PD spending with technology-readiness goals and compliance priorities.
Conclusion
Whether you’re new to IT support or looking to validate years of on-the-job experience, this specialization gives you the knowledge, practice, and confidence to take the next step in your certification journey.
Reminder: The IBM Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization is an exam-prep program only. The official CompTIA A+ (Core 1 & Core 2) exams must be purchased and scheduled separately through CompTIA.
Start learning the IBM Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization today—available exclusively through SchoolDay Academy, powered by Coursera.