Think critically both conceptually and by using mathematical analysis; write and speak effectively; use basic computer applications; and understand human
behavior in the context of the greater society.
Potential Job Position Titles
Potential entry-level job position titles include Junior Network Support Specialist, Network
Support Engineer, Junior Network Technician, Network Administrator, Junior Network
Acquisition Coordinator, and Network Deployment Specialist.
Program Length
The average length of time for a student taking a full course load is five semesters (20 months).
Program Content
A minimum of 79 semester credit hours are required for graduation.
Required Courses
All courses, 56 semester credit hours, are required.
IS 108 Internet Foundation
This course describes the history, architecture and development of the World Wide Web. Tagging languages such as XHTML, and XML are introduced along with scripting languages such as JavaScript. Topics also include popular web page authoring tools, design, graphic and multimedia formats, and commerce, implementation and security issues. Project: Static website.
IS 112 Computer Networks
This course provides instruction in network design and technologies using the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model. Topics include network fundamentals, the OSI model, network operating systems, TCP/IP fundamentals and utilities, network installation and upgrades, network remote access configuration and protocols, network administration and security, fault tolerance and disaster recovery considerations and procedures, and network troubleshooting procedures.
IS 185 Computer Architecture and Troubleshooting
This course provides instruction in microcomputer software and hardware concepts using the latest technology and troubleshooting techniques. Topics include the function and purpose of hardware and software; system board components and memory management; working with floppy and hard drives; supporting input and output
devices; multimedia technology; supporting operating systems, printers, and notebook computers; troubleshooting fundamentals, applying disaster recover techniques, and developing maintenance plans; and working with networks and the Internet.
IS 191 Linux Administration
This course introduces the capabilities and features of Linux as a multi-user operating system. Topics include system planning and installing a Linux system, managing desktop interfaces, working with the shell and text files, the role of the system administrator, performing system administrator tasks such as managing system resources and creating
scripts, and performance tuning and troubleshooting techniques.
IS 218 Web Graphics
This course provides the opportunity to develop knowledge and skill in bitmapped and vector graphics using a web imaging or graphics tool. Topics include working with file size and format, using Web-safe color palettes and managing color, image masking and image compression, Graphics Interface File (GIF), Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) and Portable Network Graphics (PNG) file formats, using tools to alter photographs, and
applying filters and effects. The Web animation tool includes creating graphic elements, turning objects into animations, using action scripts and sounds, and putting movies on the Web.
IS 282 Network Security
This course introduces basic security principles, such as establishing an effective security policy, and about the different types of hacker activities that you are most likely to encounter. It also will instruct the student in the latest security industry recommendations and how to properly protect leading OS servers in a variety of settings and how to
conduct security audits.
IS 284 Routers and Switches I
This course introduces part one of concepts and procedures required to utilize industry standard switches and routers in multi-protocol internetworks. Topics include exploring router components and their function, configuring routers according to the industry standard Operating System (OS), routing fundamentals in a subnetted network
infrastructure; and LAN design technologies. The class focuses on the TCP/IP protocol suite, IP addressing in regards to function and importance in a routed environment. Routing protocol basics such as static and dynamic routing techniques are covered with extensive labs and hands-on exercises. The class goes into detail concerning the design and usage of Access Control Lists to enhance network security and control the flow of traffic across routed networks.
IS 286 Routers and Switches II
This course is a continued study of router and switching technologies based on current industry standards. The focus of the course will be on such topics as switching basics, intermediate routing, introduction to VLSM (Variable Length Subnet Masking), scaling IP addresses, route flapping, RIP version 2, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing protocol
processes and technologies, switching concepts in regards to LAN design, VLAN configuration, and VLAN trunking protocol techniques. The class also covers the leading industry standards associated with WAN communication technologies and design such as, ISDN, DDR, and Frame Relay operations. The course includes a segment on
network administration, management and security in relation to routing and switching technologies in a modern business environment.
NT 120 Emerging Operating Systems
This course is designed to give the student a foundational skill set for new and emerging operating systems being introduced to the computer industry. The course will cover the features, capabilities and functional details involved with the understanding and implementation of the latest operating systems available today. The student will receive
classroom and hands-on experience with the most recent OS's to include topics such as installation, networking, system utilities, disk management, user management, security features, performance tuning, disaster recovery and troubleshooting.
NT 180 Network and Server Operating Systems
This course provides instruction in current leading operating systems and servers. Topics include installing the system and server; implementing and conducting administration of resources; implementing, managing, and troubleshooting hardware devices and drivers; monitoring and optimizing performance, reliability and availability; managing, configuring, and troubleshooting storage use; configuring and troubleshooting the desktop environment and network connections; implementing, managing, and troubleshooting network protocols; and implementing, monitoring, and troubleshooting security.
NT 200 Network Infrastructure Administration
This course is designed to provide instruction in implementing and administering a current leading operating system network infrastructure. Topics include installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting DNS; installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting network protocols; installing, configuring,
managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting WINS; installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting IP routing; installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Network Address Translation; and installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting Certificate Services.
NT 210 Directory Services Administration
This course is designed to provide instruction in implementing and administering a directory services infrastructure. Topics include installing, configuring, and troubleshooting a leading directory service; installing, configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting DNS for the directory service; installing, configuring, managing,
monitoring, optimizing, and troubleshooting change and configuration management; managing, monitoring, and optimizing the components of the directory service and configuring, managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting directory service security solutions.
NT 320 Wireless Networking Fundamentals
This course provides instruction on both general and specific wireless technologies. Topics include wireless theory, including radio frequency and infrared transmissions. It also covers wireless topologies, access points, wireless bridges, antenna theory, wireless security, site surveys, and troubleshooting techniques. 4.0 credit hours. Prerequisite: IS 112 Computer Networks.
NT 341 Mail Servers
This course provides instruction in the implementation, administration, and troubleshooting of e-mail messaging systems. Topics include the architecture and communication abilities of mail servers; installation of mail servers, backward integration and compatibility, client support, and configuration; real-time collaboration, and foreign
mail system connectors; SMTP and Internet-based client access; and security techniques, performance monitoring, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting issues.
General Education Requirements
Students enrolled in associate degrees must complete a minimum of 21 semester credit hours in general education. *
1 Semester Credit Hour in Information Literacy
3 Semester Credit Hours in English Composition
3 Semester Credit Hours in Speech
4 Semester Credit Hours in Computer Applications
4 Semester Credit Hours in Mathematics (College Algebra or Above)
3 Semester Credit Hours in Social or Behavioral Science
3 Semester Credit Hours in Science or Humanities with a Critical Thinking Focus **
* Transfer students may use three semester credit hour courses transferred from
other colleges to satisfy these discipline requirements. Any resulting deficiency in
the total of 37 semester credit hours required in general education may be made
up with general education electives from any of the listed disciplines.
** A course with a critical thinking focus would be a course that addresses the theories
and application of critical analysis with an emphasis on developing sequential
reasoning skills. Examples may be courses in critical thinking, philosophy, logic, or science.
Personal Development Courses
A minimum of two semester credit hours is required.
PD 100 Student Success Skills
This course provides instruction in the both theory and practice of personal growth that lead to successful life experience. Topics include research in critical self-analysis of student habits and attitudes; and psychological impediments to successfully setting and achieving personal goals. 1.0 credit hour. Prerequisite: None.
PD 120 Personal Financial Management
This course deals with the concepts of personal financial planning and financial control. Topics center on critical self examination of student planning techniques through analysis and research of personal financial legal documents, checking accounts and banking services; income tax procedures; savings methods; investment planning; risk
management and insurance; and credit records, credit law, and the cost of credit. 1.0 credit hour. Prerequisite: None.
PD 150 Client Services
This course provides a critical examination of issues embedded in the practice of providing client service. Topics include research about best practice in customer service and communication techniques; psychologically based methods for dealing with the management of customer complaints; and the roles of a customer service employee
and supervisor within ethical boundaries and common business practice. 1.0 credit hour. Prerequisite: None.
PD 200 Career Development Seminar
This seminar provides an opportunity for the student to apply critical self-examination techniques and processes for developing a career path and an awareness of the need to embed life-long learning into career management. Topics include career planning research, job searching, developing career search documents, and refining interview
and communication skills within an awareness of psychological boundaries implicit in this process. Successful completion of this course requires the creation of a professional resume suitable for e-mail. 1.0 credit hour. Prerequisite: None.
(Courses are subject to change. Please call (330) 724-1600 or toll free at (800) 311-0512 to request the current course schedule.)
Check out one of our other programs:
Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration
Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
Associate of Applied Science in Medical Billing & Insurance Coding
Diploma in Dental Assisting
Diploma in Medical Assisting
Diploma in Medical Billing & Insurance Coding
