Work-Based Learning Center is proud to host a Technology Job Fair on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Ada County Center Pintail Building.
Read more about Explore Exciting Opportunities at Technology Job FairCisco Networking and Security Technologies
Master Networking and Security for a Career in an In-Demand Field
Program Overview
Aspiring to excel in the ever-evolving world of networking? The Cisco Networking and Security Technologies program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers you in-depth training for future data communication specialties. Ideal for career paths like LAN specialist, system administrator, and network engineer, this program covers the installation, maintenance, repair, and design of various network types. You will gain hands-on experience with network operating systems, user administration, network security, and LAN design, in preparation for certifications like CCNA, CCNA: Cyber Ops Associate, Linux LPIC-1 and 2, and Python PCEP.
The program emphasizes the use of industry-leading Cisco Networking Academy Curriculum, realistic network simulations, and live physical equipment for lab exercises. This approach ensures when you graduate, you are well-prepared with the knowledge and technical skills required to excel in the IT profession. Partnerships with local companies provide opportunities for internships, enhancing the learning experience and opening doors to potential employment.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Applied Science
Advanced Technical Certificate
Basic Technical Certificate
Time to Complete
1 – 2 years
Primary Location
Learning Opportunities
- Industry-Aligned Curriculum: Engage with Cisco's Networking Academy Curriculum for a comprehensive understanding of networking technologies.
- Hands-On Technical Experience: Gain practical skills through simulations and lab exercises using real network equipment.
- Certification Preparation: Prepare for industry certifications including CompTIA A+, Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA), and Cisco CyberOps Associate.
- Internship Opportunities: Utilize connections with local companies for internships, gaining real-world experience.
- Career Readiness in IT: Equip yourself with the skills necessary for a range of Information Technology (IT) roles, including roles requiring Cisco-specific training.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Cisco Networking and Security Technologies – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Cisco Networking and Security Technologies – Advanced Technical Certificate
Cisco Networking and Security Technologies – Basic Technical Certificate
Career Opportunities
Project Management Specialists
Analyze and coordinate the schedule, timeline, procurement, staffing, and budget of a product or service on a per project basis. Lead and guide the work of technical staff. May serve as a point of contact for the client or customer. Excludes “Management Occupations” (11-0000), “Logisticians” (13-1081), “Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners” (13-1121), and “Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks” (43-5061).
28
Annual Openings*
$36.96
Hourly Median Wage*
$76,877
Annual Median Salary
34.14%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Install, configure, and maintain an organization’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212), “Computer Network Support Specialists” (15-1231), and “Computer User Support Specialists” (15-1232).
22
Annual Openings*
$36.02
Hourly Median Wage*
$74,922
Annual Median Salary
22.45%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Occupations, All Other
All computer occupations not listed separately. Excludes “Computer and Information Systems Managers” (11-3021), “Computer Hardware Engineers” (17-2061), “Electrical and Electronics Engineers” (17-2070), “Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary” (25-1021), “Special Effects Artists and Animators” (27-1014), “Graphic Designers” (27-1024), “Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars” (29-9021), and “Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers” (49-2011).
20
Annual Openings*
$29.70
Hourly Median Wage*
$61,776
Annual Median Salary
35.64%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Systems Analysts
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
18
Annual Openings*
$37.88
Hourly Median Wage*
$78,790
Annual Median Salary
30.14%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. Excludes “Computer Occupations” (15-1211 through 15-1299).
17
Annual Openings*
$49.32
Hourly Median Wage*
$102,586
Annual Median Salary
44.06%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Information Security Analysts
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Excludes “Computer Network Architects” (15-1241).
13
Annual Openings*
$47.21
Hourly Median Wage*
$98,197
Annual Median Salary
43.72%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption. Excludes “Computer Network Architects” (15-1241) and “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).
12
Annual Openings*
$23.64
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,171
Annual Median Salary
32.63%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Network Architects
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212), “Computer Network Support Specialists” (15-1231), and “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).
10
Annual Openings*
$38.36
Hourly Median Wage*
$79,789
Annual Median Salary
25.7%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Programmers
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
8
Annual Openings*
$30.15
Hourly Median Wage*
$62,712
Annual Median Salary
2.09%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Database Administrators
Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212) and “Database Architects” (15-1243).
2
Annual Openings*
$36.26
Hourly Median Wage*
$75,421
Annual Median Salary
30.73%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Database Architects
Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. Excludes “Database Administrators” (15-1242).
N/A
Annual Openings*
$62.83
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,686
Annual Median Salary
N/A
Growth (2021 - 2031)*
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
N/A
Annual Openings*
$62.54
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,083
Annual Median Salary
N/A
Growth (2021 - 2031)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Cisco Networking and Security Technologies as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Clubs
College of Western Idaho is proud to be part of Business Professionals of America (BPA), the leading Career and Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology, and other related career fields.
College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.
News
Allied Business Solutions donates $5,000 to empower Information Technology students at CWI.
Read more about Donation Empowers Information Technology StudentsPrepare for a career in the field of information technology with hands-on learning utilizing current technologies in real-world scenarios.
Read more about Networking Technology Programs Prepare Students for In-Demand CareersCWI swept away the competition with 37 medals at this year's SkillsUSA State Conference.
Read more about CWI SkillsUSA Wins Big at State CompetitionAda County Center hosts Super Smash Bros Wii U Tournament and Party with prizes, food and fun
Read more about First Annual CTE Super Smash Bros SmashfestCWI students earned one gold medal, three runner-up finishes, and a third-place award at the Business Professionals of America National Conference.
Read more about CWI Students Rack up Awards at National EventCWI students earned 27 medals at the event, including 20 gold medals.
Read more about CWI Students Showcase Skills at State CompetitionCWI earned 32 top-five finishes at the 2016 Idaho Business Professionals of America Leadership Conference.
Read more about CWI Students Score Big at BPA CompetitionCWI alum Carlos Gonzales earned a runner-up finish at the 50th-annual national SkillsUSA competition in Kansas City, Mo.
Read more about CWI Networking Grad Places Second in NationRequest More Information
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