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Information Technology Academy.

UR Chicago Alliance is dedicated to empowering individuals with the skills and certifications needed to excel in the IT industry. We proudly offer comprehensive training programs for CompTIA's A+, Security+, and Network+ certifications — providing hands-on experience, certification vouchers, and the support to launch a rewarding career in technology.

I. The Three Certifications

Three industry-recognized credentials.

Each certification opens a distinct door in the IT industry. Together, they form a complete foundation for a career in technology support, networking, and cybersecurity.

A+

CompTIA A+ Certification

Covers hardware, software, and operating system basics for entry-level IT support roles.

Sec+

CompTIA Security+ Certification

Focuses on network security, threats, and best practices for IT security professionals.

Net+

CompTIA Network+ Certification

Addresses network design, implementation, and troubleshooting for network administrators.

II. The Curriculum

What you will learn.

Each certification track covers four core competency areas, with hands-on labs, weekly cohort gatherings, and mentorship from professionals working in the field today.

I.

CompTIA A+ Curriculum

Hardware components and configurations

Covers the various hardware components that make up a computer system, such as the CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage devices, and more. Also includes how to properly configure and install these components.

Operating systems and software

Examines the different types of operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) and their features, as well as common software applications and their purposes.

Troubleshooting and problem-solving

Focuses on developing skills to identify and resolve hardware and software issues, including diagnostic techniques, error messages, and best practices for troubleshooting.

Security and networking fundamentals

Covers the basics of network protocols, security threats, and best practices for securing computer systems and networks, such as firewalls, encryption, and access control.

II.

CompTIA Security+ Curriculum

Threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities

Covers common cybersecurity threats, such as malware, phishing, and social engineering attacks, as well as identifying system and software vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

Technologies and tools for security

Explores a variety of security technologies, such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), encryption, and incident response tools.

Risk management and mitigation

Discusses risk assessment, risk management strategies, and methods for mitigating security risks, including business continuity planning and disaster recovery.

Cryptography and PKI

Covers the fundamentals of cryptography, including symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hashing, and public key infrastructure (PKI) for secure communication and data protection.

III.

CompTIA Network+ Curriculum

Network architecture and design

Covers topics such as network topologies, models, and design principles for building efficient and scalable networks.

Network protocols and standards

Examines the various protocols and standards used in networking, including TCP/IP, OSI model, and common application-level protocols.

Networking hardware and software

Explores the different networking hardware components, such as routers, switches, and NICs, as well as the software required to configure and manage these devices.

Troubleshooting and problem-solving

Covers techniques and methodologies for identifying and resolving network-related issues, including common troubleshooting tools and best practices.

III. Training Delivery

How the training works.

Format One

Web-based Courses

Cohort based, flexible learning delivered through web-based platforms, allowing learners to access course materials individually while having the support of their classmates.

Format Two

Instructor-led Classes

Interactive, live training and pre-recorded sessions facilitated by experienced instructors, providing opportunities for hands-on learning and real-time feedback.

IV. Certification Exams

Earn your voucher.

To obtain the CompTIA certifications, candidates must pass the respective practice exams, which cover the knowledge and skills outlined in the training curriculum. These exams assess the candidate's proficiency in various IT disciplines — such as networking, security, and software fundamentals — ensuring that they possess the necessary expertise to perform their job duties effectively.

Once you pass the practice exam with a 90% or above,you will be offered a voucher for that respective exam.
V. Certification Benefits

What certification unlocks.

Obtaining CompTIA certifications can open doors to a wide range of IT career opportunities. These certifications demonstrate your technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and commitment to professional development, making you a more attractive candidate for employers.

Furthermore, certified individuals often command higher salaries and enjoy greater job security within the industry.

VI. Tuition Pricing

What each certification actually costs.

Full tuition, exam vouchers, and technology fees are covered for accepted participants — a scholarship value of approximately $5,000 per student.

CertificationOnline Learning & Practice ExamsCertification ExamLab & Technology FeeTuitionTotal
CompTIA A+$180$253$83.33$1,028$1,544.33
CompTIA Security+$250$379$83.33$1,028$1,740.33
CompTIA Network+$200$404$83.34$1,028$1,715.34
Total scholarship value per student$5,000
For accepted participants, all of the above is fully sponsored — no cost to you.
VII. Tuition Refund Policy

Refund policy.

For students who pay tuition directly, the following refund policy applies. If any question, contact the Program Manager or Administrator in writing.

§ 1.Denial

An application denied by the school is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

§ 2.Three-Day Cancellation

An applicant who provides written notice of cancellation within three days (excluding Saturday, Sunday and federal or state holidays) of signing an enrollment agreement is entitled to a refund of all monies paid. No later than 30 days of receiving the notice of cancellation, the school shall provide 100% refund.

§ 3.Other Cancellations

An applicant requesting cancellation more than three days after signing an enrollment agreement and making an initial payment, but prior to entering the school, is entitled to a refund of all monies paid.

§ 4.Refund After Commencement of Classes

Procedure for withdrawal / withdrawal date. A student choosing to withdraw from the school after the commencement of classes is to provide written notice to the Program Manager or Administrator. The notice is to indicate the expected last date of attendance and be signed and dated by the student.

For a student who is on authorized Leave of Absence, the withdrawal date is the date the student was scheduled to return from the Leave and failed to do so. All refunds will be issued within 30 days of the determination of the withdrawal date.

§ 5.Tuition Charges

Tuition charges for the enrollment period (not to exceed 12 months) will be determined based upon the student's last day of attendance and the resulting percentage of the enrollment period completed. The percentage is determined by dividing the total number of weeks elapsed from the student's start date to the last day of attendance, by the total number of weeks in the enrollment period.

  1. If the student completes 10% or less, the school may keep 10% of the tuition charged and will refund 90%.
  2. If the student completes more than 10% and up to 20%, the school may keep 20% and will refund 80%.
  3. If the student completes more than 20% and up to 30%, the school may keep 30% and will refund 70%.
  4. If the student completes more than 30% and up to 40%, the school may keep 40% and will refund 60%.
  5. If the student completes more than 40% and up to 50%, the school may keep 50% and will refund 50%.
VIII. Student Grievance Procedures

Raising a concern.

Any grievances relating to school, training, or faculty need to first be addressed with the instructor while enrolled at the school.

If the grievance is not resolved satisfactorily with the instructor, it needs to be escalated in writing to the Program Manager / Program Director.

If the grievance is not resolved satisfactorily within fourteen (14) days after the receipt of the written grievance letter, it will be submitted to the Administrator and/or Executive Director of UR Chicago Alliance. In all matters, their decision will be considered final.

If the complaint cannot be resolved after exhausting the above Grievance Procedure, you may contact CompTIA's Registered Apprenticeship Office at (312) 515-1940 or email dcusimano@comptia.org.
IX. Contact Us

Ready to take the first step?

For more information about the Information Technology Academy, our team is one call or email away.

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