Networking Associate's Degree Program
Are you someone who enjoys finding simple solutions to complex technical problems? Do you enjoy working with people from all kinds of fields? Read on to learn more about associate's degree programs in networking. Schools offering Cisco Network Systems degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
What's an Associate's Degree Program in Networking?
You can study networking in a few different but similar associate's degree programs; for example, you could find programs in networking, network management, network administration or computer science with an emphasis in networking. You can usually graduate from these programs in two years, and you can do so through distance-learning programs, which are available from a number of accredited institutions. If you choose to enroll in an online program, you'll need access to the Internet and a computer that can handle the software you may be required to purchase.
What Does This Program Involve?
Networking is a professional discipline in computer science; it involves designing, installing, maintaining and repairing network systems for organizations. This could include determining the physical layout of the network, recommending software packages, creating security protocols and troubleshooting networking malfunctions. As a professional in this field, you might also be in charge of training people how to use network or upgrading a network's hardware and software. Networking professionals commonly work with other information technology (IT) professionals, including software developers, programmers, hardware engineers and systems analysts.
What Classes Could I Take?
You can expect to take general education classes in addition to classes in computer networking. You might also take classes in other areas of computer science, like computer repair, programming and software development. For example, you could take classes like the following:
- Security protocols
- IT project management
- Wireless network technology
- Routing and switching technologies
- Network communications
- Local area networks (LAN)
- Wide area networks (WAN)
- Routing and switching fundamentals
What is the Job Market Like?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), network administrators earned a median annual salary of $69,160 (www.bls.gov). The BLS also reported that network administrators are expected to experience a job growth rate of 23% between 2008 and 2018. Network technicians, another common profession in this field, earned an average annual salary of $49,966 as of November 2011, according to Salary.com.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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