Purpose: The IST Networking Curriculum is designed to prepare students to design, maintain, install and secure network system infrastructures to include knowledge of operating systems, problem detection/resolution, fault tracking/management, and network operations. This degree program helps prepare students for a career working with networking hardware and software. A series of lecture and laboratory courses are included from the Cisco Systems Networking Academy Program, which will equip students with detailed instruction in network switching and routing and prepare them for the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification.

This program of study provides students with the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities identified in the National Initiative on Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework 2.0.

Career Opportunities: This associate degree in IST Networking will offer students an opportunity to pursue positions as a Network Engineer, Network Administrator, Network Analyst, or Help Desk Technician. Students will also be able to obtain major industry networking certifications including Cisco CCNA.

Admission Requirements: In addition to the admission requirements established for the College, entry into the Associate of Applied Science degree program in Information Systems Technology requires proficiency in high school English and mathematics. All entering students will be required to take placement tests in math, writing, and reading to aid in placing students in the appropriate courses. Students who do not meet required placement levels must enroll in developmental studies courses.

Program Requirements: The curriculum includes required technical courses in information systems and general education courses. Instruction includes theoretical concepts along with hands-on experience required to master the skills needed for successful preparation for employment. Students are urged to consult with an IST faculty advisor in planning the program. Technical/computer classes over five years old cannot be used as transfer credits. In addition, students who have been readmitted into the college must have computer courses that are over five years old re-evaluated.