Networking is a professional course that prepares students with industry standard credentials and technical certifications to aid in their understanding of computers and the inter-working of them. While completing the program, students will use concepts introduced in theory and reinforced through Testout online curriculum to build and repair computer systems and understand and configure components of a computer networking infrastructure.

The instruction focuses on A+ Certification, Net+ Certification, Windows Operating System, Server Operating System, Active Directory for Microsoft Server 2008, Cisco CCNA Networking, Alternate Operating Systems, and Advanced Concepts of Networking. The curriculum is reviewed annually for relevancy and updated as industry standards dictate. Upon completion of the course, students are prepared for a variety of certification exams, including CompTIA A+ and NET+, Microsoft Certified Professional, and many facets of the Cisco Certified Network Administrator exam.

Graduates of this program are well prepared for entry-level employment. Additional education can lead to more opportunities for networking and information technology.

Computer Programmer, Computer Engineer, Database Administrator, Web Master, Computer-Operations Researcher, Computer Repair Specialist, Systems Analyst

The role of a network and computer systems administrator is to work on an organization’s computer system by designing, installing, and supporting it. They are responsible for installing and maintaining network hardware and software while also analyzing any problems that can affect the availability to users. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for WANS, LANs, the internet and network segments. They can work in small businesses, large corporations or government organizations. It is the job of a network and computer systems administrator to evaluate a system’s performance by identifying a user’s needs and determining its specific requirement.

The training requirements for network and computer systems administrators can vary by occupation. Relevant computer skills are essential even though many enter the field with different levels of education. Applicant’s looking to improve their employment chances can receive certification.

A bachelor’s degree is usually required for most network and computer systems administrators. Sometimes, an associates degree or certificate accompanied by related work experience can suffice.

Many network and computer systems administrators start out as computer support specialists. Many network and computer systems administrators explore majors such as computer science, management information systems (MIS) or information science. The degree usually takes 4 years to complete while taking courses such as computer programming, computer engineering, statistics, and mathematics. General education courses such as communications and English can also be apart of the program. For network and computer systems administrators taking MIS programs, courses such as finance, marketing and accounting may be required since most of these programs are a part of the business school or college.

Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for information technology workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks.

Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Demand for information technology workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks.

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