Degree Overview: Associate of Information Systems – Network Design
Majors Overview June 2, 2013In this article, students will learn about associate degree programs in information systems with a concentration on network design, as well as receiving information on popular careers, courses, and degree requirements to make an informed decision about their education.
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Network Design and Administration
Although there aren’t any colleges or universities that offer an Associate of Information Systems degree, students who want to study network design for computer systems at the associate degree level should enroll in an A.A.S. in Network Design and Administration program. The associate degree program will provide students with networking and information technology skills, along with in-depth knowledge of different enterprise applications. Individuals who pursue these types of degree programs typically enjoy hands-on work and highly technical.
Within the associate degree program, students are usually taught technical writing, networks, mathematics, computer hardware, and UNIX programming. Also, students will be prepared for industry-standard certifications through the associate degree program. Network administrators and architects are responsible for the evaluation, support, installation, and creation of different types of networks, including the internet, wide area and local area networks, and intranets, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS – www.bls.gov).
Education Requirements
The associate degree program courses might require students to complete prerequisites that can add one to two years of additional study. Typically, students who want to gain admission to the associate degree program are required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
Associate of Applied Science in network design and administration degree program coursework prepare students to gain employment in the information technology industry, along with certification acquisition. The program course topics may include the following:
•Protocols and routing concepts using Cisco
•Overview of data assurance
•Telecommunications use
•Designing a network
•Cisco networking
•Intercultural communications overview
•Securing a network
•Network administration in UNIX
•Computer hardware
•Information technology mathematics
Career Options
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, from 2008 to 2018, employment of computer systems and network administrators is expected to grow at a much-faster-than-average rate of twenty-three percent. Graduates can obtain the following career titles:
•Network communications engineers
•Help desk specialists
•Network designers
•Network technicians
•System support technicians
Information on Continuing Education
Students who have completed the associate degree program should consider earning designations such as a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP), and may also become CompTIA Security+ certified. Additionally, associate degree program graduates should consider earning their four-year bachelor degrees such as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Information Technology with a concentration on network design and management.
