The Computer Networking associate degree provides a solid foundation to begin or advance in a career in information technology. Additionally, it can serve as a launch point for those who wish to continue on to a bachelor degree. This degree is for those who wish to develop the “hands on” skills that are required to function in a high tech environment. The core courses all integrate conceptual understanding with practical lab applications.
There are three general areas of career preparation:
- Supporting end users with their PCs, peripherals and applications
- Building and maintaining the infrastructure that provides the connectivity between computers and other devices in homes, businesses, and throughout the Internet
- Administering the servers (both Windows and Linux) that host network resources
Part of the core program is the Cisco Networking Academy, which covers all of the requirements to obtain the coveted CCNA (Cisco Certified Networking Associate) certification. This includes extensive lab work with configuration of Cisco routers and switches.
In addition to technical skills, the successful graduates learn the skills required to communicate and interact successfully with end users, customers, colleagues and supervisors.
Upon the completion of the degree in Computer Networking, graduates will be able to:
- Design, administer and troubleshoot a small network along with its underlying infrastructure.
- Use critical thinking skills to solve networking and computer systems problems.
- Be able to design, assemble, configure and troubleshoot computer hardware including workstations, servers, routers, switches and other networking devices.
- Install, configure and manage operating systems: Windows and Linux/Unix.
- Manage services, user accounts and security of a system.
- Be familiar with basic programming, scripting and database concepts.
- Communicate effectively with technical and nontechnical staff.
- Work well as a member of a team.
In addition, the graduate will be able to demonstrate competency in the general education outcomes.