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IT - Network Communication Specialist
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The IT - Network Communications Specialist program prepares students to maintain and support local and wide area networks, computer communications systems including router and switch configurations, hardware & software infrastructure management/design, voice and video over IP, private telephone systems (PBX), voicemail systems, and video production. Potential students should enjoy hands-on activities, working with people, and problem solving activities. Prior computer experience is beneficial, but not required. Network Communication Specialists are needed in almost any business using local and/or wide area networks, the Internet or Intranets, and telephony systems.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for positions in a wide variety of organizations and businesses. Opportunities for employment exist in accounting firms, banks, schools, hospitals, insurance companies, manufacturing firms, and government agencies as:
- Network Administrator: Designs,implements, and maintains local area and wide area computer networks needed for the efficient functioning of the firm
- Network Assistant: Assists the network administrator with all aspects of the firm's information network(s)
- Information Technology Support: Works directly with end users to maintain and troubleshoot information systems
Helpful Academic Background
- Math skills (math proficiency through algebra required prior to enrollment in 605-150 Basic Electronics for
Communication Networks, Semester 2).
- Oral and written communication skills.
- Keyboarding.
- Computer applications and concepts.
Program Outcomes
At the completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of database concepts.
- Provide assistance and a variety of support services to network users within the organization.
- Use the fundamental principles of systems analysis and design to solve organizational needs.
- Apply error detection and testing techniques.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, and operating system software.
- Troubleshoot the communications network when problems arise and develop a solution plan.
- Install and upgrade software, hardware, and equipment.
- Maintain the organization’s communications network.
- Assist with network design, testing, and documentation for implementing a communications network.
- Demonstrate knowledge of basic communications network electronics.
- Install, support, and maintain a Local Area Network (LAN) and/or a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Program Basics
- Associate degree, requiring a minimum of two years to complete.
- Day or Evening Classes.
- High school articulation courses accepted.
- Financial aid available.
- Classes start in August and January.
- Modified plan available.
Program Admission Requirements
- Complete required assessment testing including College entrance assessment test and computer application competency tests* covering Windows operating systems, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, and database applications**.
**Results used to determine remediation concurrent with enrollment in Computer Concepts.
- Complete the application form.
- Interview with counselor.
- Pay a $30 nonrefundable application fee.
- Submit high school and any post-secondary transcripts.
- Students may re-apply to be admitted to a program for which they initially do not meet the Student Academic Achievement Plan (SAAP) criteria after they follow the additional courses and alternate program sequence prescibed for them.
Program Fees
Please contact Student Services at 800.362.3322, Ext. 2354, or email student-services@swtc.edu for current fee information.
A Program Fee list is provided (please note the costs are approximate and based on the current academic year).
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