"Choosing to come to Empire College was the best decision I could have made. I have two certifications since I started, and I still have nine months left in my course. When I first came to Empire I had zero computer skills. Now I am educated in computer mechanics, understanding network configuration, and have knowledge of Windows Server 2008. I’ve definitely come a long way."
- Brandon Bustillos, IT Degree Student

 

 

Objective: The Network Specialist program is designed to give students the ability to configure and troubleshoot computer hardware and administer and configure Microsoft and Linux networks. In addition, the program is designed to give the students the ability to design Windows infrastructures and active directories, work on Cisco router configuration through Cisco router training, and give them an understanding of wireless networks and network security. Web authoring with HTML and Adobe Creative Suite is also introduced in the Network Specialist program.

Graduates are prepared to assume positions as entry-level network engineers or systems engineers. This is an in-demand industry, and we can have you fully prepared to earn your first position.

Empire College is a Microsoft IT Academy and MSDN AA (Microsoft Developers Network Academic Alliance) member and uses a teaching program that is prescribed by Microsoft in order to prepare graduates for certification as Microsoft Certified Professionals (MCP) at the product level.

Graduates are prepared for the following certifications:

• CompTIA A+ Technician
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator
• Microsoft certification at the product level (MCTS-Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist) in 4 areas:
  • Windows 7 Professional
  • Windows Server 2008 Server Administrator
  • Windows 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuration
  • Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration
• MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional) Server Administrator: With completion of the three MCTS certifications, the student will have achieved the highly regarded MCITP Server Administrator certification.
  • Windows Server 2008 Server Administrator
  • Windows Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuration
  • Windows Server 2008 Active Directory Configuration

Certifications are not required to be employed in the career field or to graduate from the program, but they are highly recommended. Exams may be taken at the on-campus Prometric/VUE Testing Center. Exam fees vary, ranging from $60 to $225.

Note: All units in this program are transferable to the Specialized Associate Degree in Information Technology – Microsoft Concentration program.

Expected Educational Outcomes: Upon completing the Network Specialist program, students will have demonstrated:

1. The ability to provide customer and user support for computer systems and networking products, including Microsoft Windows, Novell Netware, Linux cross platform connectivity and numerous software products
2. An understanding of Microsoft Windows operating systems, including setup, configuration, and file and user management, as well as router configuration
3. The critical thinking skills required to analyze network connectivity problems and make necessary judgments to troubleshoot hardware and software
4. The ability to interact with users/customers in a professional, businesslike manner
5. Proficiency with web authoring and Microsoft Office

Program Length: 5 quarters
A diploma will be awarded upon successful completion of all graduation requirements. Click here to view a course outline for the Network Specialist program.

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