Degree Overview: Associate in Information Technology (A.I.T.) Degree in Network Security
Majors Overview January 11, 2014Read about an Associate in information technology (A.I.T.) degree in network security and its coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
A.I.T. Programs in Network Security
Students enrolled in Network security associate’s degree programs are taught about information security and how to safeguard it by using state-of-the-art technology. Students enrolled in some programs can go on to earn security certifications and seek employment as security administrators.
Usually, it takes about two years to complete an Associate of Information Technology in Network Security degree program. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma and to complete some other prior requirements.
Coursework
Coursework in a network security program is devised to impart knowledge to enrolled students about counter intelligence and computer forensics, in addition to information about the hardware and software used in keeping computer networks secure. Programs may include hand-on coursework whereby students can get hands-on experience in work settings and equipment they would be required to work with. Coursework could also include subject areas such as:
•Routing basics
•Algebra
•Composition
•Wide area networks
•Security policy
•Secure administration
•Intrusion detection
Career Choices
An associate’s degree in network security may prepare individuals to seek work in various work settings in information security, including:
•Network administration
•Network engineer
•Network security officer
Continuing Education Choices
Apart from associate’s degrees, Schools may also offer programs leading to certifications related to security of wireless and operating systems, apart from network security. Students may be taught about different operating systems and related concepts, in addition to wireless technology.
A.I.T. Programs in Computer Forensics
Students enrolled in an associate’s degree in computer forensics are taught about cyber law and the ethics related to the industry. Coursework may focus on teaching how to use their skills and knowledge in areas that accord maximal importance to confidentiality, including government offices, banks and hospitals. The focus of instruction may also be on cybercrime, including methods of investigating and tracking down of cyber criminals. An associate of information technology degree in forensic technology typically takes two years to complete, and admission criteria usually require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma, in addition to submitting standardized test scores.
Coursework
Students enrolled in programs learn to assemble a computer and install computer programs. Students can also learn about other fields such as computer information systems and criminal justice. Coursework is also devised to include topic areas such as:
•Security information
•Data recovery techniques
•Mathematics
•Psychology
•Encryption
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 12% has been projected for network and computer systems administrators during the decade from 2010 to 2020 (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); a corresponding job growth rate of 22% has been projected for Information security analysts (along with Web developers and computer network architects). In May 2010, network and computer systems administrators earned an average annual wage of $69,160, while computer network architects, Web developers and information security analysts took home an average annual pay packet of $75,660.
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates of Associate’s degree programs may opt to take exams to obtain Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) certifications, such as Security+, A+ and Network+. Preparation can be accomplished through a series of self-taught interactive lectures of classroom training courses.
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