El Camino College – Business Training Center is proud to announce that we are an approved vendor* for the Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program.
What is Credentialing Assistance (CA)?
Much like the Army’s Tuition Assistance (TA) funding, which is provided to eligible Soldiers working towards an academic degree, CA funds allows enlisted personnel to earn industry recognized certifications to enhance their active-duty work and to prepare them as they transition to the civilian job market after they leave the service.
CA is a voluntary, off-duty program that directly contributes to improving total Army readiness, supporting Soldiers’ professional development, retaining quality Soldiers, and preparing Soldiers for meaningful employment upon transition from military service.
Now is the time to take advantage of a great opportunity to pay for credentials that can enhance your skills and qualifications both during and after military service! The Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program can pay for courses and exams that lead to industry-recognized civilian credentials in an occupational area of your choice. You may use this program to enhance your skills, either in your current MOS, or in an occupation you would like to pursue when you leave military service. You can request CA funding for any credential listed on Army COOL.
Our Most Popular Army Credentialing Courses
CORE
- CompTIA IT Fundamentals
- CompTIA A+ Core 1
- Comp TIA A+ Core 2
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
CYBERSECURITY
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA CySA+
- CompTIA CASP+
INFRASTRUCTURE
- CompTIA Server+
- CompTIA Linux+
- CompTIA Cloud+
BENEFITS
Training Aligned to your MOS or ASI
Live Expert Instructors for Virtual Classes
Self-paced Classes Available with Instructor Assistance
$4,000 in funding per year
Practice Exams
Concierge Service to help you pass your Certification
CompTIA is One of the World’s Leading Associations!
Representing the international technology community, CompTIA has developed several specialized certifications that assure employers that prospective or current IT employees have solid foundation skills in PC maintenance, networking and cloud technology, or security.
El Camino College’s focus is to offer the best IT Certifications for beginners leading to entry level jobs and career pathways in a variety of fields including cybersecurity, networking & cloud technologies, IT support, and others. You can further advance your career and salary by taking intermediate, advanced, and expert level certifications in your selected career pathway.
Our primary focus is to offer you a recommended path of Core courses. Second, we provide you the necessary support services to help you pass each certification exam. After completing the set of Core courses, we will focus on providing you two career pathways to choose from, intermediate courses allowing you to continue and advance in your career field.
Eligible Soldiers may use the CA to pay for recognized credentials up to the fiscal year limit of $4,000.
At El Camino College, the course costs paid by CA include:
- Full time instructor for live online virtual courses and part time instructor time to assist students enrolled in online self-paced classes.
- All online courses and labs, ebooks where applicable, mandatory fees
- After completion of class services to help you pass the CompTIA exam to include:
- CertMaster Practice or other similar exam preparation on SynED’s Learning Management System where applicable and noted
- Up to two consultations with our SynED counselors
- Readiness Assessment to take the CompTIA Certification exam
- Distribution of CompTIA exam voucher
What are the Next Steps to Apply to Attend Scheduled Courses?
- Soldiers are required to complete a CA Request in ArmyIgnitED, https://armyignited.com/app/. Once submitted, ArmyIgnitED will route the CA Request through to ACCESS, ArmyU CA Team.
- All Soldiers are REQUIRED to upload a quote that matches what El Camino College – Business Training Center lists in ArmyIgnitED. To request a quote for a course, click on that option within the specific course offering.
- ACCESS, ArmyU finance team will inform Soldier of approval, normally one week prior to the class start date.
- Upon receiving approval from the ArmyU finance team, the Soldier must immediately contact Kimberly Watson, Coordinator of Programs at the El Camino College — Business Training Center, by email at kwatson@elcamino.edu or by phone at 310-225-5261 to complete the registration process. This is the final step to be completed by the soldier in order to guarantee a spot in the class.
- It will l take up to 30-45 days to be approved by the Army.
- A minimum of 10 students is needed to run a class.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- ARMY COOL Credentialing Opportunities On-Line: www.cool.osd.mil/army/costs_and_funding/army_credential_assistance.htm
- ArmyIgnitED: www.armyignited.com/app/
- The Army Credentialing Assistance Program Soldier Process: www.cool.osd.mil/army/docs/soldier-ca-process-guide-30-mar-22.pdf
- To Learn More About Veteran Services Offered at El Camino College, click here: https://www.elcamino.edu/support/resources/veterans-services/index.aspx
* The Department of Defense and the Department of the Army are neither affiliated with nor endorse El Camino College – Business Training Center.
CompTIA Career Pathways
CompTIA certifications align with a number of career paths. El Camino College – Business Training Center will be focusing on two of the major career pathways that include Cybersecurity and Infrastructure. These career pathways are broken out below with the first level being CompTIA’s Core Skills as a starting foundation.
1. Starting Point: Take the CompTIA Core Skills
The Core certifications build the foundation for a thriving career in IT and covers a broad spectrum of topics, including operating systems, networking, security and more. These certifications are the entry level for beginners to other specialized and professional certifications offered by CompTIA and El Camino College – Business Training Center. Courses should be taken in the order shown.
A. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF)
IT Fundamentals (ITF) covers a range of IT topics and provides a solid grounding in the technology concepts and practices organizations use today.
B. CompTIA A+
A+ is the starting point for a career in IT. The performance-based exams certify foundation IT skills across a variety of devices and operating systems. The CompTIA A+ Core Series is broken into two courses, Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). The candidate must pass both cores to receive the CompTIA A+ Certification.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: 9 to 12 months hands-on experience in the lab or field. Completion of CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF) or general knowledge.
Jobs that use A+ include:
| Help Desk Tech | Desktop Support Specialist |
| Field Service Technician | Help Desk Technician |
| Associate Network Engineer | System Support Technician |
| Junior Systems Administrator |
C. CompTIA Network+
Network+ certifies the essential skills needed to confidently design, configure, manage and troubleshoot any wired and wireless devices.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: CompTIA A+ Certification and at least 9 to 12 months of networking experience.
Jobs that use Network+ include:
| Junior Network Administrator | Datacenter Support Technician |
| Network Engineer | System Administrator |
| NOC Technician | Telecommunications Technician |
| Cable Technician |
D. CompTIA Security+
Security+ provides a global benchmark for best practices in IT network and operational security, one of the fastest growing fields in IT.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus.
Jobs that use Security+ include:
| Security Administrator | Systems Administrator |
| Helpdesk Manager / Analyst | Network / Cloud Engineer |
| Security Engineer / Analyst | DevOps / Software Developer |
| IT Auditors | IT Project Manager |
2. Choose your Career Pathway
A. Cybersecurity Pathway
Pair the core skills with cybersecurity certifications to gain the hands-on ability to protect organizations from cyberattacks and threats.
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CompTIA PenTest+
PenTest+ is for intermediate level cybersecurity professionals who are tasked with penetration testing to manage vulnerabilities on a network.
Course Prerequesites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: Network+, Security+ or equivalent knowledge. Minimum of 3-4 years of hands-on information security or related experience. While there is no required prerequisite, PenTest+ is intended to follow CompTIA Security+ or equivalent experience and has a technical, hands-on focus.
Jobs that use PenTest+ include:
Cloud Penetration Tester Web App Penetration Tester Penetration Tester Security Consultant Cloud Security Specialist Network & Security Specialist -
CompTIA CySA+
Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) applies behavioral analytics to the IT security field to improve the overall state of IT security.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: Network+, Security+ or equivalent knowledge. Minimum of 4 years of hands-on information security or related experience.Jobs that use CySA+:
Security Analyst Threat Intelligence Analyst Security Engineer Application Security Analyst Incident Response or Handler Compliance Analyst Threat Hunter -
CompTIA CASP+
CASP+ is an advanced certification that validates critical thinking and judgement across a spectrum of security disciplines in complex environments.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.Recommended Experience: A minimum of ten years of general hands-on IT experience, with at least five years of broad hands-on security experience.
Jobs that use CASP+:
Security Architect Senior Security Engineer SOC Manager Security Analyst
B. Infrastructure Pathway
Earn these certifications, in addition to the core, to gain the skills to excel in IT operations.
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CompTIA Server+
Server+ demonstrates the technical knowledge and skills required to perform a variety of tasks on server platforms.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: Recommended CompTIA A+ and at least 18 months of IT experience.
Jobs that use Server+ include:
System Administrator Data Center Technician Server Administrator Network Administrator Field Service Technician or Engineer IT Technician Data Center Engineer -
CompTIA Linux+
Linux+ is an internationally recognized credential validating technical competencies required for junior-level Linux administrators.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: 12 months of hands-on experience working with Linux servers in a junior Linux support engineer or junior cloud/DevOps support engineer job role. CompTIA A+, Network+ and Server+ or similar certifications and/or knowledge are also recommended.
Jobs that use Linux+:
Linux Administrator Junior Cloud Engineer Junior DevOps Support Engineer Technical Support Specialist Systems Administrator Network Administrator Web Administrator/Developer Cybersecurity Engineer Linux Engineer -
CompTIA Cloud+
Cloud+ validates the skills and expertise required to securely implement, maintain and utilize cloud technologies.
Course Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites or experience-level requirements for our CompTIA courses. Many students have dropped into the training pipeline from all levels, some with zero IT experience to 20 years of experience. To provide the student with the highest success in passing courses and certification exams, it is highly recommended that they follow the suggested sequence of courses listed under “Recommended Experience”. However, it is not a requirement. Before jumping into a higher advanced course, we recommend that the student have a consultation with one of our experienced instructors before making that decision. We will provide the recommended experience as shown below.
Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and Server+ and 2-3 years of experience in systems administration or networking.
Jobs that use Cloud+:
Sr. Systems Administrator Cloud Engineer Systems Engineer Sr. Network Administrator Sr. Network Engineer Cloud Specialist Cloud Project Manager
C. Cybersecurity with the DoD
For students who are interested in a career in cybersecurity with the DoD, we are providing the Department of Defense 8570.01-m Approved and Required Certifications for Government Employees (Military or Civilian) Working in DoD’s Workforce. Click here to learn more
Jobs Roles:
| Information Assurance Technical (IAT) – technical positions, such as security administrators | Information Assurance Management (IAM) – management positions, such as security managers |
| Information Assurance Security Architecture and Engineering (IASAE) – higher-level positions, such as security engineers and security architects | Cyber Security Service Provider (CSSP) – this category includes the specific job roles of cybersecurity analyst, infrastructure support, incident responder, management and auditing |
Skill Levels of DoD 8570.01-m
The IAT, IAM and IASAE categories have three skill levels: I, II and III. The CSSP categories do not include skill levels because the positions are very specific. The skill levels vary by job category, but generally increase from beginner to intermediate to advanced.
A DoD 8570.01-m chart of approved certifications is below, but let’s look at the IAT category as an example to better illustrate how the job categories and skill levels come into play:
- Level 1 | Computing Environment: At this level, DoD 8570.01-m requires an IT certification such as CompTIA A+ because it focuses on help desk support for the computing environment.
- Level 2 | Network and Advanced Computer: DoD 8570.01-m level 2 jobs require an IT certification such as CompTIA Security+ because it focuses on securing networks.
- Level 3 | Enclave/Advanced Network and Computer: Level 3 job within DoD 8570.01-m require IT certifications such as CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) because it covers advanced networking skills.
Approved Certifications for DoD 8570.01m
* CompTIA PenTest+ is 8570.01-m approved for CSSP Analyst, CSSP Incident Responder and CSSP Auditor
3. Select your Course to Receive a Quote to Submit to Army Ignited
El Camino Course Offerings:
1. CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)
Includes Support Services and Exam
Cost: $1,600
Class Format: Self-Paced with Instructor Assistance
This course demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace, covering networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics.
Ideal for: Those who are considering a career in IT
Exam: FCO-U61
Scheduled Course Offerings:
- Class 1107 [May 29 thru July 17, 2023]
- Class 1108 [June 26 thru August 14, 2023]
- Class 1109 [July 24 thru September 11, 2023]
3. CompTIA A+ Core 2
Includes Support Services and Exam
Cost: $2,400
Class Format: Self-Paced with Instructor Assistance
This course demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace, covering networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics.
Ideal for: Individuals preparing for entry level IT positions
Exam: 220-1102 (Core 2)
Scheduled Course Offerings:
- Class 1118 [June 26 thru August 28, 2023]
5. CompTIA Security+
Includes Support Services and Exam
Cost: $2,400
Class Format: Self-Paced with Instructor Assistance
This course demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace, covering networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics.
Ideal for: Individuals expanding their Knowledge and understanding of networking concepts.
Exam: SYO-601
Scheduled Course Offerings:
- Class 1113 [May 15 thru July 17, 2023}
- Class 1114 [June 26 thru August 28, 2023]
2. CompTIA A+ Core 1
Includes Support Services and Exam
Cost: $2,400
Class Format: Self-Paced with Instructor Assistance
This course demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace, covering networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics.
Ideal for: Individuals preparing for entry level IT positions.
Exam: 220-1101 (Core 1)
Scheduled Course Offerings:
- Class 1116 [May 29 thru July 31, 2023]
- Class 1117 [July 10 thru September 11, 2023]
4. CompTIA Network+
Includes Support Services and Exam
Cost: $1,600
Class Format: Self-Paced with Instructor Assistance
This course demonstrates your readiness for the digital workplace, covering networking and cybersecurity essentials to hardware and software basics.
Ideal for: Individuals expanding their Knowledge and understanding of networking concepts.
Exam: N10-008
Scheduled Courses:
- Class 1111 [May 29 thru July 31, 2023]
- Class 1112 [July 10 thru September 11, 2023]