Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Contact Information: Program Office 615-353-3369, Program Site, E-mail: network.tech@nscc.edu

Computer Information Technology (Networking Concentration) prepares students for employment in the Information Technology field in the area of network infrastructure. Students complete coursework and hands-on experiences in planning, design, implementation, and maintenance of networks of different sizes. In addition to networking skills, students also complete Computer Science coursework in security, operating systems, server management, and programming, in combination with other technology courses. Certifications applicable to this concentration may include CompTIA Network+, A+, Security +, Cisco CCENT, Microsoft OS and Server, among others. Required courses are A+ Hardware & Software, Windows OS and Server, CCNA courses, and Network Security.

The program includes theoretical and practical components, preparing entry-level networking technicians to design, install, monitor, maintain, and enhance network infrastructure. Graduates of the program will be able to design and implement an infrastructure consisting of various networking devices and components such as clients, servers, routers, switches, and cabling systems. They will also be capable of working in entry-level positions of user support, server monitoring, directory services basic administration, basic router and switch configurations, subnetting, and network communications protocols, along with network media installation and testing.

In addition to technical proficiency, graduates of this program will be knowledgeable in effective communications, both written and verbal. Graduates will be experienced in working in teams and being self-motivated in problem-solving scenarios.

Graduates of the program should be able to:

• Identify and understand the supporting roles of Computer Technology (IT) in organizations;
• Develop effective problem-management and decision-making skills;
• Demonstrate the ability to analyze, develop, and implement various IT processes and applications;
• Perform initial installation and setup of workstation software and network servers, such as Windows and UNIX/Linux;
• Perform basic configurations on networking components, such as Routers and Switches; and
• Troubleshoot and analyze network hardware, software, and communications problems.

After completing the minimum course requirements, graduates have been exposed to concepts and materials used in the certification exams. In addition, a rich selection of electives allows students to increase the breadth and depth of their understanding and prepares them for advanced certifications such as the Cisco CCNA as well as the advanced Microsoft certification MCSA.

Career Opportunities

Typical positions available to graduates of this program (based upon DOL classifications) are:

• LAN Administrator
• Network Administrator
• Microcomputer Support Specialist
• Network Technician
• Data Communications Technician