Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Contact Information: Program Office 615-353-3369, Program Site

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, Cisco CCNA, 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 concentration should be able to:

• Perform basic configurations on networking components, such as routers and switches;
• Perform initial installation and configuration of Windows/Linux desktop and server operating systems, services, and roles;
• Analyze, develop, and implement various IT processes and technologies; and
• Troubleshoot 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.

Transfer/Advising

The A.A.S. degree is designed to prepare a student for employment upon graduation. Some universities, at their discretion, accept some technical courses for transfer. A student who plans to transfer to a university should consult his/her advisor and the receiving university about transfer and articulation policies. Failure to do so could result in loss of transfer credits. If completed, this degree will transfer into the BS in Professional Studies program at Middle Tennessee State University.

Career Opportunities

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

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