Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Telecommunications
Majors Overview December 8, 2013Those interested in audio, digital, and video communications may want to obtain an associate’s (A.A.) degree in telecommunications technology. Some Associate of Occupational Studies (A.O.S.) programs in electronics engineering provide coursework in telecommunications. Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) programs in telecommunications can offer a more thorough lesson.
A.A.S. Programs in Telecommunications
Students enrolled in Associate of Applied Science Degree Programs in Telecommunications are trained to design, install, configure and maintain computer networks and telecommunications systems. The programs focus on the technology used in the transmission of video, data and voice communications while teaching students about digital subscriber lines (DSL), wide and local area networks, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), fiber optics and Cisco networking. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. In some programs, students are required to submit an official transcript.
Coursework
It typically takes about two years to complete these programs. Students are imparted knowledge and skills related to electronic circuit applications, voice and data communications and telecommunication software. They are also taught about the various transmission methods that are currently used in telecommunications. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Wireless communications
•Cisco TCP/IP routing protocols
•Physical layer transmission
•Digital switching systems
•Operating systems
•Database applications
•Digital switching
•Cisco networking
•Local area network management
•Network and computer security
Career Choices
Those who successfully complete these programs can pursue entry-level occupations in the areas of design, technical support, field service and network administration, while working for job givers such as companies that use wireless communications, cable providers, telecommunications companies and Internet providers, and performing job duties including customer service, maintenance and installation of systems. They can aspire for various job titles such as:
•Cable installer
•Telecommunications technician
•Network installer
Certification and Continuing Education Choices
Hirers of telecommunications workers and technicians do not insist on candidates having any formal education and therefore these professionals would not need to continue education. However, those who aspire to become administrators or managers could need a college degree and could aspire to earn bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Technicians who wish to boost their career prospects could volunteer for professional certification as offered by organizations such as the National Coalition for Telecommunications Education and Learning and the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers.
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