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Program Information
Information technology continues to grow day by day, and you can take advantage of the many opportunities in this field through Iowa Western's Network and System Administration program. Here you'll learn how to install, maintain, and administer network operating systems. Training in the installation and maintenance of hardware and software for servers and desktops is also offered.
As you work toward an Associate of Applied Science degree, you'll learn from Microsoft and Cisco certified instructors while using the most up-to-date equipment. Hands-on labs provide an ideal learning environment. Not all program courses are offered on-line or every year. This program will prepare you for entry as a help desk expert, system administrator, or data center technician.
With 100 percent job placement, this program sends graduates to such large companies as Con Agra, Qwest, First National Bank, Mutual of Omaha, Union Pacific, and First Data. So if you enjoy problem solving and working in teams, this program is a perfect fit.
Students who complete this A.A.S degree will have earned a Computers: Desktop Support, Computers: Network Administration, and a Computers: System Administration certificate by completion.
Job Outlook
9,241 Jobs (2020)
+2.7% Change from 2020-2025
Data is from the Omaha Metropolitans Area, and the seven counties in Southwest Iowa that Iowa Western serves
What will you do
This program is designed for students intending to enter the workforce upon completion of this two-year degree. Network and system administrators implement and maintain interconnected computer systems. They manage local-area networks, wide-area networks, Internet and intranet connections, and other business-critical networks. They also ensure necessary hardware is in working order and secure. Network administrators are also involved in the design of systems, including needs analysis, business evaluations, development, and security. Graduates of this program are eligible for an entry-level position as a technician or support employee.
Network administrators are in a strong position in this economy. As computer networks become a more and more important part of business and communications, there’s a vast need in a wide variety of industries for professionals who can install, upgrade, and maintain these systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities are due to increase by 27% between 2006 and 2016.
Wages
- Entry: $24.61
- Average: $36.14
- Experienced: $74.53
First Semester | ||||
| SPC 122 - Interpersonal Communication | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 790 - PC Support I | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 785 - Fundamentals of Desktop Support | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| CSC 121 - Operating Systems | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MAT 743 - Technical Math | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
1May substitute MAT 102 or higher | ||||
Semester Total: 15.0 Credits | ||||
Second Semester | ||||
| CIS 332 - Database and SQL | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 313 - Windows Server | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 418 - LINUX Administration | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| ENG 110 - Writing For The Workplace | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 204 - Introduction to Networks | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 15.0 Credits | ||||
Third Semester | ||||
| NET 495 - Virtual Infrastructure | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 343 - Windows Directory Services | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| CIS 127 - Introduction to Programming | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 612 - Fundamentals of Network Security | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 311 - Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| PHI 142 - Ethics in Business | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 18.0 Credits | ||||
Fourth Semester | ||||
| NET 278 - Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| CIS 780 - Computer Projects | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 810 - Computer Internship | 1.0 - 8.0 Credit(s) | |||
| MGT 195 - Workplace Empowerment | 3.0 Credit(s) | |||
| NET 795 - Desktop Support Practicum | 1.0 Credit(s) | |||
Semester Total: 16.0 Credits | ||||
Total Semester Hours Required: 64.0 | ||||
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Program Outcomes
Upon the successful completion of the program students will:
- Demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills.
- Demonstrate use of analytical skills in systems and networks through troubleshooting and problem solving.
- Construct a computer network.
- Design a relational database.
- Install operating systems.
- Illustrate end user communication skills.
- Configure a secure system.
- Apply project management skills.
- Analyze network traffic.
Program Disclaimers
- Salary information from EMSI Analyst Database