Since securing sensitive information has become a top priority for all organizations, the network and security administrator has become a common job role across various career fields. The Network Administrator and Security concentration of the Associate of Applied Science degree prepares students for careers in network and security administration. Data analysis, IP routing and networking devices, server administration and operating systems, cyber security, and coding are among the courses offered in this programe.
You will be ready to take the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), Cisco CCENT, Microsoft MCP, and CompTIA (A+, Security+, and Network+) exams. Following the completion of these certifications, you will be prepared to provide technical support for computer networks in business settings.
What is the definition of an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree?
An AAS degree, regardless of industry, is intended for students who want to work in a field that is primarily offered at vocational schools, such as I.T. technology. An AAS typically necessitates the completion of a two-year programe of occupational study. The goal of an Associate of Applied Science degree is to prepare students to enter the job market in a field where qualified employees are in high demand.
AAS degrees are available in a variety of career fields and can help you land a great job that complements your skill set. For example, if you’re interested in technology but don’t want or have the time to devote to a four-year college education, you could consider an AAS in information technologies, engineering, manufacturing technology, or automotive technology.
AAS in Network Administration and Security – Overview of the Program
The Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Network Administration and Security program is designed for anyone who wants to receive a well-rounded education and earn various certifications to give them a competitive advantage in the job market. The program includes 12 courses and 5 general education classes that will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to:
Computer hardware installation, maintenance, and repair This includes tasks such as OS and hardware installation and troubleshooting, as well as PC configuration and maintenance.
Advanced networks must be planned and configured. You’ll be able to design and implement a LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network), including software and hardware configuration, management, and security, as well as analyze the organization’s networking needs.
Stop and prevent external security threats and attacks. You will be able to recognize and describe common security attacks and threats, as well as how to prevent them. You’ll also be able to conduct a penetration test using a common ethical hacking methodology, as well as implement countermeasures for various cyber-attacks.
Develop and put in place network security strategies. Determine what it takes to develop, design, and implement a secure computer information technology strategy.
Recognize network protocols. Explain the principles of layered communications, the OSI Reference Model, routing, switching, and bridging devices and principles. Manage the Cisco Internet Operating System as well as the Cisco router hardware (including planning, installation, configuration, troubleshooting, management, and upgrading of switches and routers). Design and implement fundamental network services such as DNS, DHCP, remote access, computer network shares and printing, user groups and accounts, and network and desktop computer security. All of these concepts should be used effectively in both written and verbal communication.
Following completion of the program, you will be able to obtain the following certifications:
- CEH
- CCNA
- CCNA Security Certification
- CySA+
- CFR
- CASP
- Fundamentals of MTA Networking
- Fundamentals of MTA Server
- Fundamentals of MTA Security
- Network+ / MTA Networking
- CompTIA Network+ certification
- CompTIA Security+ certification
- CompTIA Server+ certification
- CompTIA A+ certification
Linux Fundamentals
Students learn about PC maintenance and repair, computer networking, installing and troubleshooting operating systems, and system administration and security. Students gain an understanding of the design, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of computers, wired and wireless networks, and operating systems through both theory and hands-on instruction. Design of WAN/LAN systems, installation, administration, configuration, and troubleshooting are all examples of network instruction. You will be ready to take certification exams after completing this course program.
Options for a Career
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is a growing demand for I.T. professionals in network administration and information security, which may lead to people pursuing this career path. There are numerous positions available if you have expertise in this field. Among the most popular career paths are:
- Specialist in computer support
- Administrator of a network
- Administrator of network systems
- Engineer in network administration
- Technician for computer networks
Technician at the help desk
According to BLS projections, employment of I.T. network and computer systems administrators will grow by 5% between 2018 and 2028. During the same time period, computer support specialists should see a 10% increase. In 2018, the average annual salary for computer user support specialists was $55,000, while network and computer system administrators earned an average of $87,000.
Education that is ongoing
You may seek employment immediately after receiving our Associate of Applied Science in I.T. Network Administration and Security degree, or you may choose to further your education because certification and on-the-job training are frequently beneficial for employment opportunities. Product vendor certifications, as well as certifications obtained through certifying organizations and training programs, are available. You should also pursue the following certifications:
- Microsoft Certified Expert (MCP)
- Microsoft Certified Technology Professional (MCTS)
- Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Professional (MCDST)
- Certified Systems Administrator by Microsoft (MCSA)
- Cisco Network Certified Professional (CCNP)
In general, Associate of Applied Science degree programs in information technology network administration and security open many doors in the information technology industry. As a graduate, you have the option of entering the job market right away, obtaining more specialized certifications, or even pursuing bachelor’s degrees to improve your employment prospects. There is a high demand for network administration and security specialists. Our Associate of Applied Science degree in network administration and security will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge, as well as the credentials to back them up.
This program includes several sought-after industry certifications, which will enhance your resume as soon as you obtain them (even before you complete the program).