The network and security administrator has become a common job role across different career fields, since securing sensitive information has become the top priority for all organizations. The Network Administrator and Security option of the Associate of Applied Science degree educates people in preparing for careers in network and security administration. Courses for this program include data analysis, IP routing and networking devices, server administration and operating systems, cyber security, and coding.
MyComputerCareer offers this program both online and on-campus. You will be prepared for CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), Cisco CCENT, Microsoft MCP, and CompTIA (A+, Security+, and Network+) certifications. After receiving these certifications, you will be prepared to provide tech support for computer networks in business environments.
What is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree?
Regardless of the industry, an AAS degree is intended for students who want to work in a field that’s mainly offered at vocational schools, such as I.T. technology. Typically, an AAS requires completion of a two-year program of occupational study. The purpose of an Associate of Applied Science degree is to prepare students to enter the job market in a field where there is a high demand for qualified employees.
An AAS degree is available in different career fields that can help you land a great job that complements your set of skills. For example, if you’re interested in technology, but don’t want or have four years to spend on a college education, you may wish to consider an AAS in information technologies, engineering, manufacturing technology, or automotive technology.
AAS in Network Administration and Security – Program Overview
MyComputerCareer’s 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 that will bring them a competitive advantage when entering the job market. The program consists of 12 courses and 5 general education classes which will give you the skills and knowledge necessary to:
- Install, maintain, and repair computer hardware. This includes performing PC configuration and maintenance tasks, such as OS and hardware installation and troubleshooting.
- Plan and configure advanced networks. 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, and analyze the networking needs of the organization.
- Prevent and stop external security threats and attacks. You will be able to identify and describe common security attacks and threats, as well as describe how to prevent them. Also, you’ll be able to carry out a penetration test by applying a common ethical hacking methodology and implement countermeasures for various cyber-attacks.
- Create and implement network security strategies. Determine what it takes to develop a secure computer information technology strategy, as well as design and implement it.
- Understand network protocols. Describe layered communications principles, OSI Reference Model, routing, switching, and bridging devices and principles. Manage the Cisco Internet Operating System and Cisco router hardware (including planning, installation, configuration, troubleshooting, management, and upgrading of switches and routers). Design and implement basic network services, such as DNS, DHCP, remote access, computer network shares and printing, user groups and accounts, and manage network and desktop computer security. Use all these concepts effectively in written and verbal communication.
The certifications you have the opportunity to earn after completing the program include:
- CEH
- CCNA
- CCNA Security
- CySA+
- CFR
- CASP
- MTA Networking Fundamentals
- MTA Server Fundamentals
- MTA Security Fundamentals
- MTA Networking / Network+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Server+
- CompTIA A+
- Linux Essentials
Students are trained for PC maintenance and repair, computer networking, operating systems installation and troubleshooting, and system administration and security. Through both theory and hands-on instruction, students achieve an understanding of the design, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of computers, wired and wireless networks, and operating systems. Specific network instruction includes design of WAN/LAN systems, installation, administration, configuration, and troubleshooting. Upon completion of this course program, you will be prepared to take certification exams.
Career Options
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is a growing demand for I.T. professionals in the area of network administration and information security, which is why people may choose to pursue this career path. If you have expertise in this field, numerous positions are available. Some popular career paths include:
- Computer support specialist
- Network administrator
- Network systems administrator
- Network engineer
- Network technician
- Help desk technician
According to BLS’ projections, there will be a 5% increase in the employment of I.T. network and computer systems administrators between 2018 and 2028. During that same period, computer support specialists should see an increase of 10%. In 2018, computer user support specialists earned a mean annual salary of $55,000, while network and computer system administrators earned an average of $87,000.
Continuing Education
Upon receiving our Associate of Applied Science in I.T. Network Administration and Security degree, you may seek employment right away or choose to further your education because certification and on-the-job training often prove to be beneficial for employment opportunities. You can obtain product vendor certifications, as well as certifications through certifying organizations (such as MyComputerCareer) and training programs. The additional certifications you should pursue include:
- Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
- Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
- Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST)
- Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
In general, Associate of Applied Science degree programs in I.T. network administration and security open quite a few doors in the I.T. industry. As a graduate, you can choose to enter the job market immediately, obtain more specialized certifications, or even pursue bachelor’s degrees to improve your prospects for employment. The demand for network administration and security specialists is high. With our Associate of Applied Science degree in network administration and security, you will gain the skills and knowledge you need, as well as the credentials to back them.
This program includes several sought-after industry certifications that will boost your resume as soon as you receive them (even before you complete the program). Earning your MyComputerCareer degree will set your new I.T. career in motion.
About MyComputerCareer
MyComputerCareer is an accredited I.T. career college that provides training, certification preparation, and job placement services for anyone who is looking to enter the I.T. industry. Also, we are here to help those seeking additional knowledge and skill sets to help them advance in the field. If you are interested in enrolling in our ITSS program (either online or on-campus), feel free to reach out to us for more information.