Network Administration & Security, AS

The South College Network Administration and Security program is designed to provide students, through completion of courses consisting of lecture and hands-on computer instruction, with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, support, and maintain computer network systems in a wide range of computing environments, and to implement and monitor computer security measures within these networks. The major curriculum courses included in this program are supplemented with courses in humanities, social science, mathematics, and business areas in order to broaden students’ overall knowledge, oral and written communication skills, and critical thinking skills.

Through this training, students will be prepared for the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator certification examination (though the passing of examinations is not guaranteed). Students are also prepared for other certifications such as CompTIA’s A+, Network+, and Security+ exams, as well as Cisco’s CCNA exam. By passing theses exams, students can earn marketable and industry-recognized credentials that validate their technical proficiency with computer hardware and software. In depth coverage of current network security methods and tools also prepared students to design secure networks and to properly monitor and react to network intrusion attempts. Using the skills and knowledge gained through this program, graduates are prepared for entry into such career paths as entry or junior level systems administration and security, LAN/WAN administration, technical support to end users, or technicians in a variety of professional environments.

Learning Outcomes

Through completion of the Associate of Science in Network Administration & Security program, students will:

1. Demonstrate the ability to setup, configure, troubleshoot, secure, and maintain a microcomputer to include hardware and operating system software.
2. Design and manage a computer network to include installing, configuring, securing, and troubleshooting network devices, protocols, and services.
3. Apply networking skills related to server operating systems, network security, directory services, and administrative network security policy making.

The Associate of Science in Network Administration & Security degree program is currently offered Online.