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Program: Microsoft Networking Technology
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Instructor: Geri Bumbalough
For more info: geribe@pdelm.com
Program Quick Look
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Approx. Starting Salary:
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$37K
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Average Salary:
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$39K-$57K
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Average Wage at Placement:
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$19/hour
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Labor Market:
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strong in the longterm
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Quotes:
Numerous Studies show a lack of women and minorities
entering, and even continuing, in this field. Also, businesses have reached
a place where an IT group has become a necessity, particularly in mid-sized
and large-sized companies where the primary business focus is not
technology. These two points have caused a revolution in what has been a
stereotypical white male work environment. Because of the immense need for
IT workers, most IT Certifiers have been actively courting women and
minority groups to help fill these needs by focusing training on the
necessary technical skills. Other groups, particularly colleges, have taken
advantage of this support from major IT companies to bring this training to
a wider range of potential workers and include necessary human
communications skills; the goal is to provide people ready to enter and
continue in IT work. In particular, the community colleges have been
perhaps the most effective training venue for reaching women and minorities.
The Microsoft Networking Technology programs are a
good example of this. Not only has Microsoft been aggressive in their
support to bring underrepresented groups on board, but they have also done
this by using an Operating Systems environment to which many people have
already been exposed and accustomed to using. Coupling this with the great
scope of different IT disciplines offered (Network Infrastructure-both
Physical and Logical, OS Network Administration, Application Network
Administration, Web Site and e-Commerce support, and others), I believe this
program offers a number of advantages that can attract women to the field -
the chance to be challenged technically, especially in problem-solving
arenas, and to provide excitement in these disciplines by discovering new
approaches to provide solutions using more collaborative interaction among
IT groups.
Course Information:
Course Description:
The COA Microsoft Networking Program prepares individuals for employment through industry-recognized certification. This is an introductory course covering the essential system administration and technical support for Microsoft Windows 2000 Network Operating System(s). Students of the program learn the skills needed to install, configure, administer, customize, optimize, and troubleshoot the two basic Windows 2000 Network Operating Systems.
Prerequisites:
CIS031: This is an introduction to the fundamentals of computer networking, usually called "Network Communications Fundamentals" or "Networking Essentials." To view the course catalog for the days and times this prerequisite course is offered, click here:
Course Catalog
Hours Offered:
Day and evening classes plus a six-hour Saturday class.
Length of Program:
Two years full-time.
Career Information:
Career Path:
Upon completing the Microsoft Networking Program, graduates are qualified to gain entry-level employment as computer networking specialists. With experience, individuals can be promoted to network managers or executives in their departments. Experience can also open up opportunities in larger companies with more options for career development. The skills gained as a networking specialist also qualifies you for opportunities in many other areas of the Information Science Industry, such as programming and development.
Nature of the Work:
Computer Networking Specialists are responsible for the set-up and maintenance of computer systems now prevalent in many companies and industries. They supervise the installation of hardware, placing of equipment and test the operating system. They install and maintain software products as well as provide information on new software developments and programming changes or enhancements. They are also responsible for ensuring that company employees are trained to use the systems they set up and maintain. A Network Specialist must also be on hand to troubleshoot problems and ensure that the entire system is operating smoothly. The use of logical and precise thinking is very important for success in this field as well as strong communication and social skills. As this is a highly evolving and competitive industry, formal training as well as additional training periodically throughout one's career is highly recommended.
Work Environment:
Network Specialists work indoors on the site of which the computer systems they are responsible for are installed. In large corporations this can encompass many different computers, offices or even floors of a building, while small companies may be contained in only one room. Occasional lifting may be required for the set up of hardware and other equipment as well as the stringing of wire, but the work is primarily sedentary and detail orientated involving system configuration and work with software programs. Hours may be irregular depending on the needs of clients or problems that may occur.
Specific Jobs Available to Graduates:
Network Specialist, Networking Manager or Networking Executive. The Microsoft Networking Degree also opens up opportunities in any area of the Information Technology Industry.
Industries Employing Graduates of this Program:
Opportunities are available in any company or organization that employs computer networks in its business operations. This includes industries from banking to universities to commerce.
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