Career Description

Computer network administrators design, install, and support an organization’s network infrastructure. They may also plan, coordinate, and direct the computer-related activities of an organization, making sure all parts of a computer network work to meet the organization’s goals. Finally, computer network administrators provide day-to-day support for software users and direct the work of other computer specialists such as analysts, programmers, and technicians. This program will help students prepare for careers in networking such as MCSE, MCSA, network administrator, network engineer, systems analyst, location area network (LAN) administrator, wide area network (WAN) administrator, network security specialist and systems engineer.

Program Information

The Computer Network Administration Diploma program is an exciting track offered by Central Lakes College. Coursework includes general networking technologies, network troubleshooting, operating system technologies, disaster recovery, computer repair, and security fundamentals. This program covers an overview of networking technologies that graduates can expect to work with in small to mid-size organization settings and delivers curriculum using current industry software, including Operating System (OS), Network Operating System (NOS) and other applications. CLC’s information technology (IT) instructors are industry certified professionals with multiple years of experience in their respective disciplines both in the classroom and in industry.

Program Outcomes

Graduates will be able to:

• Perform computer information technology practices and procedures required for entry to mid-level employment;
• Perform computer information technology entry to mid-level skill sets and apply theoretical principles;
• Install, manage, configure and use functions and features of current releases of operating systems, network operating systems and applications;
• Install , troubleshoot and repair computer equipment and peripherals;
• Test successfully on competencies required to pass industry certification exams;
• Locate, evaluate and properly utilize the tools and resources appropriate to a computer technology professional;
• Evaluate, identify and apply appropriate security standards;
• Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences.

Certification

This program will prepare students for the following certifications: Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST), CompTIAA+, Network+, Server+, Security+, and others. Central Lakes College is a Prometric, VUE, and Certiport Authorized Test Center. All certification exams can be delivered on-site.

Employment Statistics

For more information regarding employment statistics, career salary information and estimated job growth, follow the resource links below:

https://apps.deed.state.mn.us/lmi/ces/
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm
http://www.iseek.org/jobs/jobmarket.html