Information Technology: Computer Networking and Cybersecurity
What is Information Technology: Computer Networking and Cybersecurity?
Information technology is the development, maintenance, or use of systems — especially computer systems, software and networks — for storing, retrieving and sending information. Computer networking is the process of electronically linking two or more computing devices to exchange information through data connections.
Information technology and computer networking has changed the lifestyle of people all over the world:
- Everyone uses a computing device — a smartphone, tablet or computer.
- People can work from anywhere in the world.
- Companies can conduct video conferences, sharing ideas, software, and expertise from various locations simultaneously without losing time and money to travel.
- Information on any subject is available at the click of a mouse.
With the fast-paced, changing landscape of technology and communications, there is a downside -- hackers. Hackers routinely try to break into personal and company networks; ransomware, identity theft, data loss/manipulation, denial of service attacks are a few of the attacks used. As a result, trained computer networking specialists are being called upon more and more to protect individual, companies and government information through constantly changing security processes.
Program Overview
This two-year program is based on the IT Essentials and CCNA Routing and Switching curricula provided by the Cisco Networking Academy. Topics and skills covered involve assembling, disassembling, and repairing computers; troubleshooting hardware and software; designing, installing, and maintaining wired and wireless computer systems; configuring switches and routers; designing network infrastructure; troubleshooting network design and installation; customer service and technical support.
By the end of the program students will have had the following experiences and opportunities:
Complete a cornerstone project
Students complete the program with a comprehensive project involving technology purchase recommendations and network design.
Participate in real world projects and industry challenges
Just as is done in the real world, students will often work in teams to design and develop novel solutions to class projects and industry challenges that are mentored by the program’s business partners.
Work with industry professionals
The program enjoys strong ties with industry partners who host students in a variety of job shadowing experiences, classroom projects with partners on specialized assignments, and guest lecture in our classes, which result in lasting relationships and future employment opportunities.
Use cutting edge technology
The IT Computer Networking students are provided with a laptop. The state-of-the-art learning lab contains the following equipment: PCs; laptops; hand tools for assembly/disassembly, repairs and cable production; network cables and cable testing equipment; Cisco switches and routers
Earn internationally recognized certifications
Students will have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized CISCO and CompTIA certifications.
Earn up to 25 college credits
Students can earn up to 25 college credits towards an Applied Associates Degree in IT: Computer Networking or IT: Cybersecurity.
The ECCA Program Catalog contains the names and descriptions of the courses in the IT: Computer Networking and Cybersecurity program, as well as a Plan of Study.
Contact Information
ECCA Program
Michelle Maddalla