The Information Technology associate degree and associated Network Engineering Technology certificate of proficiency, based on guidelines from the Association for Computing Machinery, prepare students for jobs that support computing in a networked environment. These include entry-level positions as PC technicians, network administrators, help desk specialists, technical support specialists, and customer service representatives. The A.A.S. degree may also prepare students for transfer to career-oriented B.S. degree programs in IT administration, network engineering, and computer system support.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES

• Pass industry certifications, including A+, NET+, Linux+, and Security+; Microsoft’s MCTS, MCITP, MCSA, and MCSE; and Cisco’s CCNA.
• Understand, configure, and install hardware and software, including Internet user software;
• Understand, describe, and apply network protocols and standards;
• Explain computing practices and procedures found in most organizations;
• Use printed and online technical documentation;
• Describe how the Internet works;
• Work effectively individually and in workgroups to install and implement information technology;
• Demonstrate written and oral communication skills.

Admission requires a high school diploma or its equivalent, one year of high school algebra, and computer literacy. Applicants must demonstrate competency in English composition, reading, and mathematics, as determined by placement testing. Students who are required to complete foundations courses must plan their curriculum with an academic advisor.

The A.A.S. in Information Technology was not developed as a transfer curriculum; however, students have successfully transferred to, and completed bachelor’s degrees at, several technically-oriented institutions including NJIT, Fairleigh Dickinson University, DeVry University, Drexel University, and Peirce College.

The Network Engineering Technology certificate of proficiency is intended to provide the technical material covered in the A.A.S. degree. Certificate coursework may be applied toward the A.A.S. degree.

SEE ALSO:
Computer Information Systems degree program
Computer Science degree program
Computer Science certificate program
Database Administration certificate program
Information Technology: Cybersecurity degree program
Mobile and Web Computing certificate program