IT-Network Specialist

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    Associate Degree of Applied Science
    Program Number: 
    101502
    Program Courses offered at the following Campuses: 
    For more information contact:
    Information Technology Program Cluster
    Phone: 
    (800) 322-6282 Ext. 6800 or (608) 246-6800

    About

    The Information Technology-Network Specialist program prepares qualified individuals to administer, install, maintain and troubleshoot data and voice networks. The Network Specialist has a working knowledge of Local Area Networks (LANs); Wide Area Networks (WANs), and their interconnectivity to nodes, servers, and other end user devices in the enterprise network. Students receive hands-on training in network operating systems, user administration, network security, network design, and implementing voice over IP (VoIP). Instruction includes: managing Network Operating Systems (NOS) and client software, network security measures, user accounting, and monitoring network event logs for problem resolution. The program also prepares the graduates to test for the Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Networking Associate), the Cisco CCNA-Voice, the MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist): Windows Vista Configuration and Configuring Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure, the CompTIA A+, and the CompTIA Network+ certifications, as well as 2 of the 4 CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) exams.

    Admissions

    Requirements for Program Application

    The following is required to process your application:

    • High School transcript - or
    • Completed COMPASS - or
    • HSED/GED Test Scores - or
    • College transcript showing an Associate Degree, Bachelor's or higher Degree
    Admission Processing Deadlines: 
    Spring 2010

    For this program applications must be received by January 15, 2010 to be considered for the spring semester.  All supporting documentation (transcripts, test scores, etc.) must be received by February 2, 2010.

    Fall 2010

    MATC begins collecting applications for the following year's Fall term on September 1st.  The Admissions Office will then begin processing those applications on the 3rd Monday in October. (Effective for the fall of 2010).

    Program Outcomes

    Program Outcomes: 
    1. Establish, maintain & troubleshoot advanced networking configurations (Voice over IP, Quality of Service, Wireless).
    2. Configure, maintain & troubleshoot routing protocols between routers.
    3. Control network access using firewalls and ACL’s.
    4. Create and manage a network environment with network operating system commands and a variety of troubleshooting tools. (Windows, Linux)
    5. Manage a network environment using debugging tools or scripting.
    6. Establish network connectivity (switches, VLANs, routers).
    7. Install, configure and troubleshoot devices in the network. (workstations, servers, routers).
    8. Solve problems individually and in a team environment.

    Rev. 06/09

    Employment

    Career Potential: 

    Entry level positions can include:

    • Cable Installer–Voice/Data
    • Network Control Operator
    • Network Support Technician
    • Network Support Services
    • Network Technician
    • Network Specialist
    • Network Professional
    • Networking Services
    • Assistant LAN Manager
    • Assistant LAN Administrator
    • Assistant Network Administrator

    With experience, networking specialist can find work as:

    • LAN Manager
    • LAN Administrator
    • Network Support Services Manager
    • Network Engineer
    • Network Administrator
    • Web Designer

    Upper Management positions can include:

    • Networking Manager
    • Manager of Voice/Data Networks
    • Intranet (sic) Designer
    • Data Communications Analyst
    • Director of Networks

    Additional Info

    Additional Info about the Program: 

    Definitions and Guidelines

    10-150-172 CCNA3&4: Switching and WAN Access must be completed within one (1) year of taking 10-150-170 CCNA1&2: Networking and Routing Basics.

    We only transfer in equivalent college work if the grade is a C or better. (We do not transfer in C- graded course work).

    Advanced Standing cannot exceed 50% of the required credits for the program.

     

    IT Brochure (PDF)

    Last Modified: October 23, 2009