IT Program Pathways (CompTIA)

Information Technology Program

AoH’s Information Technology (IT) programs offer stackable credentialing for learners interested in beginning, as well as advancing in, the IT Industry. Although the pathway is designed to take learners from ITF to CompTIA Security+ if desired , our pathway is also designed to have flexible entry and exit points to meet the needs of individual learners. During the IT program, learners will be involved in hands-on internships to gain valuable experience in the IT field. Upon successful completion and certification, AoH assist learners with careers in tech support, IT Operational roles and more.

1. CompTIA Tech+

CompTIA Tech+, is an entry-level certification. This class introduces learners to basic IT knowledge such as the fundamentals of computing networks, operating systems, hardware, security, software development and database concepts and prepares learners for the Tech+ certification exam. CompTIA ITF is a five month IT program including 200+ hours of instruction which includes virtual simulation and hands-on work. Upon successful completion of the ITF class, learners can move on to CompTIA A+.

2. CompTIA A+

CompTia A+ is an intensive 10-month session broken into two (2) five month “Core” sections focusing on hardware, cloud computing, networking technology, operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Unlike other CompTIA IT programs, A+ consists of two separate exams, both of which must be passed in order to obtain the credential. While students must be committed to participating in two five month sessions, they have the opportunity to begin an A+ program in either the fall or spring (based on meeting requirements), with both day and evening sessions available.

3. CompTIA Network+ Program Overview

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized credential that validates the foundational skills required to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot both wired and wireless networks. This course equips learners with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience essential for early-career roles in network administration and cybersecurity.

Participants will develop core competencies in networking concepts, infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting. As a vendor-neutral certification, Network+ prepares learners to work across a variety of platforms and technologies, making it an ideal starting point for anyone pursuing a career in IT support, network administration, or cybersecurity.

Whether you’re seeking to advance in your current IT role or build a strong foundation before pursuing more advanced certifications, the Network+ program offers the critical skills needed to thrive in today’s interconnected digital landscape.

4. CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ program is your gateway to a cybersecurity career.  CompTIA Security+ is the must have certification for those entering information security.
CompTIA Security+ equips IT professionals with the essential competencies for excelling in cybersecurity positions and advancing in the field.

Learners will explore hardware operating systems and networks, mastering skills to implement basic security measures across diverse computing environments.  This cybersecurity course will focus on network security’s importance in information technology and students will gain a broad understanding that will lay the groundwork for further specialization in the IT Field.

Upon successful completion for cyber security training , students will be able to safeguard networks, devices and traffic and prepare for modern cybersecurity challenges. This class is the best preparation for the CompTIA Security+ exam, which will validate skills for career advancement in cybersecurity

Fall 2025

ComTIA ITF Tech + 

Daytime

Time: 10:30 – 2:00 pm
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location: Ward 5
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site)

Evening

Time: 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location:  Ward 8
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site)

CompTIA IT A+

Core 1 and 2 Daytime

Time: 10:30 – 2:30 pm
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location: Ward 5
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site for labs)

Core 1 and 2 Evening

Time: 5:00 – 9:00 pm
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location: Ward 5
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site for labs)

 Network+ 

Daytime

Time: 10:30 – 2:30
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location: Ward 5
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site)

CompTIA Security+ 

Daytime

Time: 10:30 – 2:30
Days: Monday – Thursday
Location: Ward 5
Instruction: Hybrid (Remote and on site)

Workforce Orientation Schedule: (Daytime – 9:00 – 2:30, Evening – 4:30 – 9:00 )

All IT (Day and Evening), Ward 5, Thursday, September 4
Workforce Academy, Ward 5, Monday, September 8

Benefits

  • No cost CompTIA for DC residents
  • Transportation stipend
  • Student support services
  • In-person and online class options
  • Laptops provided during training
  • Paid curriculum and testing vouchers
  • Apprenticeship opportunities
  • Professional PortfolioConnection to IT employers

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria to enroll:

CompTIA ITF

  • High school diploma or qualifying progress
  • CASAS Reading score 235+
  • CASAS Math score 210+
  • Northstar digital literacy score 85%+
  • Onsite advising session with Workforce staff
  • Passing score on CompTIA Pretest
  • Program completion and certifications within 5 months

CompTIA A+

  • High school diploma or qualifying progress
  • CASAS Reading score 235+
  • CASAS Math score 210+
  • Northstar digital literacy score 85%+
  • Onsite advising session with Workforce staff
  • Passing score on CompTIA Pretest
  • Any CompTIA certification (incl. ITF) or
  • 9 to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field or
  • Associates (2 year AA) or Bachelors degree in IT
  • Program completion and certifications within 12 months

CompTIA Network+

  • High school diploma or equivalent (or demonstrate qualifying academic progress)
  • Successful completion of the CompTIA A+ course and/or A+ certification, or hold equivalent credentials (e.g., CompTIA Security+)
  • Prior hands-on experience in a junior network administrator or IT support technician role (preferred)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or related field (preferred)
  • CASAS Reading score of 235 or higher
  • CASAS Math score of 210 or higher
  • Northstar Digital Literacy Assessment score of 85% or higher
  • Participation in an onsite advising session with Workforce staff
  • Score of 75% or higher on the CompTIA Network+ program assessment
  • Commitment to complete the program and earn certification within 6 months

CompTIA Security+

  • High school diploma or qualifying progress
  • Successful completion of A+ course and/or A+ certification or have relevant certifications or Bachelor’s degree in IT
  • CASAS Reading score 235+
  • CASAS Math score 210+
  • Northstar digital literacy score 85%+
  • Onsite advising session with Workforce staff
  • 70% + on CompTIA Assessment
  • Program completion and certifications within 6 months.

Become a Learner

Academy of Hope offers FREE programs to DC residents over the age of 18. Enroll today and begin your journey toward your education and career goals!