Networking Technology at Heartland

Computer Networking Technology

General Information about the A.A.S. Program
The Associate in Applied Science Degree in Computer Networking Technology prepares the student for a variety of entry level positions. Examples include network administrator, PC/network technician., help desk technician, and computer operator. Students receive two semesters of hands-on PC and network experience in a variety of popular network components, including Novell NetWare 5.1 and Microsoft Windows 2000 network operating systems, as well as network hardware installation and configuration, such as Cisco.

The A.A.S. incorporates all of the courses from the Cisco, Novell, and Microsoft Windows 2000 specializations offered in the in Network Administrator Certificate and an Internship in Technology providing valuable work experience. Some courses in programming are offered as electives, as they provide valued knowledge in most networking job environments. However they require prerequisites which do not count toward this A.A.S. They are recommended for students who have prior programming experience or have completed previous programming classes.

Several courses in this degree are vendor approved curriculum that prepare students to take certification exams available from a separate testing site. NETW121, NETW122, NETW123, & NETW124 are Cisco Networking Academy courses that prepare students to take the Cisco Certified Networking Associate exam. NETW150 and NETW151courses in this program prepare students to take the A+ certification exams as computer technicians. NETW160 Introduction to Networking prepares students for the Network+ certification exam from CompTIA. The NETW163 is a Novell approved course in preparation to take the CNA (Certified Novell Administrator) exam. NETW162 & NETW164 are Novell approved courses in preparation for exams which are part of the CNE (Certified Novell Engineer). NETW166 & NETW167 are Microsoft approved curriculum to prepare students to take Microsoft certification exams to become a Microsoft Certified Professional.

     A.A.S. Degree in Computer Networking Technology
         A.A.S. Degree (PDF)
         Suggested 4-semester sequence

General Information about the Certification Program
This certificate prepares students for entry-level positions as network administrators. The first half of the program introduces students to basic computer concepts and to the broad range of hardware and software technologies used to interconnect computers, peripherals and communications devices. During the second half of the program, students intensively study a specific network operating system and its utilities, or how to install, configure, and operate routed Local Area Networks, Wide Area Networks, and switched LAN networks. Hands-on experience is emphasized throughout the entire program. Though previous computer experience is not required, it is strongly recommended.

Though the primary goal of this program is to prepare graduates for network administration, the broad base is designed to allow students to also pursue other computer networking career tracks (technician, support, engineer). NETW150 and NETW151courses in this program prepare students to take the A+ certification exams as computer technicians. The NETW163& NETW164 courses are Novell approved courses in preparation to take the CNA (Certified Novell Administrator) exam. NETW166 & NETW167 are Microsoft approved curriculum to prepare students to take Microsoft certification exams to become a Microsoft Certified Professional. NETW121,NETW122, NETW123, & NETW124 are Cisco Networking Academy courses that prepare students to take the Cisco Certified Networking Associate exam.

There are three different specializations available for the Certificate in Computer Networking Technology

Courses are offered in the traditional format with both daytime and evening sections available.

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Advisor Information
Advisor's Guide
CISCO