Program Requirements
IT - Network Specialist
Associate Degree | 10-150-2
www.cvtc.edu
1-800-547-2882
Start Dates: August, January
Effective: August 2024
First Semester
Course #Course TitleCreditsPrerequisites/Comments
150-103Emerging Technology in IT1Examine technological innovation with a focus on the latest trends in IT. Expand your awareness of emerging technologies that are shaping the future of networking and IT systems. Engage with cutting-edge tools and methodologies, analyze the impact of technological advancements on IT infrastructure, and prepare to meet the challenges of tomorrow's tech landscape. Develop a strategic understanding of how to leverage these technologies to drive organizational success.
150-111IT Software for Networking2This course provides hands-on training utilizing industry standard computer software to document network design, layout and architecture; to effectively manage an information technology project; and to manage the data critical to the management of information technology assets.
150-150CCNA 1: Intro to Networks3Program studentThis is the first of three courses that are aligned to the CCNA Certification Exam. It introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and other computer networks. The principles and structure of IP addressing and the fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations are introduced to provide a foundation for the following CCNA courses. By the end of this course, learners will be able to build simple local area networks (LAN), perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes.
150-176Linux 12This course focuses on guiding the learner to develop a fundamental understand of Linux based Operating Systems (OS) and their primary components. Topics covered include: performing custom Linux installations; partition management; using GRUB to control boot behaviors and default targets; usage of common Command Line Interface (CLI) commands; user and group creation, file system navigation, architecture, and security; network customizations; package installers and managers; backup and recovery systems, and basic troubleshooting processes.
154-111Endpoint Management3Learn knowledge and skills to install, configure and support end-user devices, client operating systems, and software. Develop skills needed to connect various computing devices to networks, perform basic cybersecurity mitigations, troubleshoot common problems to identify, diagnose and resolve issues. Demonstrate basic understanding of scripting, the cloud, virtualization, and security. The course prepares students to take the CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification.
804-133Math & Logic3Students will apply problem solving techniques from discrete mathematics. Topics include symbolic logic, sets, algebra, and base number systems.
TOTAL CREDITS:14
Second Semester
Course #Course TitleCreditsPrerequisites/Comments
150-143IT Essentials3154-111This course addresses the fundamentals of personal computer (PC) workstations hardware systems and the integration of operating systems used by business and industry into those systems. Course topics include: integration, configuration, troubleshooting, and documentation of PC subsystems including motherboard architecture, form factors, power supplies, IDE devices and removable storage, system memory, multimedia devices, I/O devices, BIOS and boot process, and video/display fundamentals, Additionally, the integration, configuration, troubleshooting, and documentation of commonly used (current and legacy) operating systems, as they relate to system hardware, is explored.
150-151CCNA 2: Switch/Routing/Wire Essentials3150-150The second of three CCNA courses focuses on the technologies, functions, and configuration of switches and routers in support of small-to-medium business networks. The learner is also introduced to wireless local area networks (WLANs) and network security concepts. By the end of this course the learner will be able to configure mid-level functionality in routers and switches, apply basic network security measures, and perform basic troubleshooting of IPv4 and IPv6 network components.
150-165Microsoft Server 12154-111This course allows the learner to acquire necessary skills for supporting and configuring Windows Server including installation and configuration of an Active Directory Domain. Account administration, group policy management and core server roles and features are identified while preparing for MCSA Exam 70-410.
150-177Linux 22150-176This course focuses on guiding the learner to refine previously acquired Linux knowledge and use it to implement advanced Linux features, functions, and troubleshooting processes. Topics covered include: Process management; Common network services setup and configuration (DNS, DHCP, Firewall, etc.); Advanced partition management using LVM, alternate file system formats, implementations of RAID, quota management, as well as file system encryption; LDAP authentication; and local system security. Throughout all areas, troubleshooting, security, and recovery will be discussed. This course, along with Linux 1 and Scripting, prepares the learner with the knowledge to take the CompTIA Linux+ and the Linux Foundation's - Linux System Administration certifications.
150-183Wireless Networking2This course in an introduction to wireless local area networks (WLANs). Students will develop, implement, and troubleshoot wireless networks. Students will acquire competencies in wireless technologies, security, and network design practices. Course topics include WLAN setup and troubleshooting. 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, and 802.11n technologies, products and solutions, site surveys, resilient WLAN design, installation and configuration, WLAN security, and vendor interoperability strategies. The course will be delivered via a combination of lecture/discussion and hands-on application laboratory.
801-136English Composition 13This course is designed for learners to develop knowledge and skills in all aspects of the writing process. Planning, organizing, writing, editing, and revising are applied through a variety of activities. Students will analyze audience and purpose, use elements of research and format documents using standard guidelines. Individuals will develop critical reading skills through analysis of various written documents.
801-219English Composition 13English Composition 1 develops critical thinking, reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both exposition and argumentation. The course emphasizes college-level writing skills supported by reasoning, organization, and language conventions for research, presentations, and other discourse.
TOTAL CREDITS:15
Third Semester
Course #Course TitleCreditsPrerequisites/Comments
150-105IT Career Prep2This course is specifically designed to aid learners in finding, obtaining, and keeping employment. Learners in this course will research current technologies, explore possible careers, develop job search materials, manage their online presence, practice interviewing skills, and examine negotiating strategies. Students will gain or improve these critical skills through discussions, research projects, written assignments, mock-interviews, guest speakers, roleplay, real-world scenarios, presentations, and industry tours.
150-110Help Desk and User Support1This course will provide an overview of the functions, services, and management of IT help desks. Learners shall explore a variety of topics including effective communication, model value-added end-user training sessions, troubleshooting techniques, issue tracking software, and help desk documentation. Learners will gain or improve upon the skills via discussions, research projects, written assignments, roleplay, and presentations.
150-118Scripting2This course will introduce students to Linux/Unix and Windows shell scripts, Python and PowerShell scripting and how scripting is used for administration and management of network servers and clients. Students will learn to access file systems, data stores, the Windows registry as well as skills needed to install, manage and troubleshoot enterprise networks.
150-153CCNA 3:Netwkg/Security/Automat3150-151The final course aligned to the CCNA Certification Exam describes the architectures and considerations related to designing, securing, operating, and troubleshooting enterprise networks. This course covers wide area network (WAN) technologies, quality of service (QoS) mechanisms, network security, and introduces the concepts of software-defined networking, virtualization, and automation that support the digitalization of networks. Learners gain skills to configure and troubleshoot enterprise networks and learn to identify and protect against cybersecurity threats. Learners are also introduced to network management tools and learn key concepts of software-defined networking (SDN) including controller-based architectures and how application programming interfaces (APIs) enable network automation. By the end of this course learners will be able to configure, troubleshoot, and secure enterprise network devices. Learners who successfully complete this course are ready to prepare to take the CCNA Certification Exam.
150-166Microsoft Server 22150-165This course allow the learner to acquire necessary skills for administering Windows Server environment including Active Directory management, Group Policy, backup and recovery, PowerShell remoting and infrastructure management, and security concepts while preparing for MCSA Exam 70-411.
801-196Oral/Interpersonal Comm3Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
809-166Intro to Ethics: Theory & App3This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.
809-225Ethics3This course engages students in a dialogue with past and present ethical thinkers who provide frameworks for addressing an array of contemporary moral issues pertaining to the individual and society. Students will evaluate responses to contemporary moral dilemmas while developing their own logical ethical stances.
150-170IT Service Center2150-143This course will provide the learner with practical application and competency in core computer hardware and operating system maintenance and support. Practical experience will be developed in the repair, configuration, upgrading, diagnostics, and preventative maintenance of consumer PC's. These functions will be performed in the program's internal Computer Service Center. Additionally, learners will perform the various administrative tasks associated with the Service Center's operation such as product workflow tracking, inventory control and pre and post repair customer support.
150-182Network Specialist Internship2Program studentThe purpose of this course is for the learner to obtain real-world experience by working within an IT Department for a local business or organization. Students must first obtain permission from the Director of Network Specialist Internship before enrolling in this course. The Director will coordinate the student's internship with the IT Administrator/Manager of a local business or local organization. Compensation for the internship is to be negotiated between the student and the employer.
TOTAL CREDITS:18
Fourth Semester
Course #Course TitleCreditsPrerequisites/Comments
150-140Virtualized Systems3150-118 and 150-166 and 150-177This course will provide the learner with the skills necessary to install, configure, manage and troubleshoot enterprise OS and application virtualization and storage management using VMware server virtualization products including VMware vSphere, which consists of VMware ESXi/ESX and VMware vCenter Server.
150-155Network Operations Mgmt2150-118 and 150-166 and 150-177This course will build on the skills acquired in previous classes and will explore advanced topics such as Microsoft’s System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), Active Directory Domain Services, Internet Information Services, Windows Server Update Services, Windows Deployment Services and Microsoft SQL Services, software update deployment, end point protection, operating system deployment, compliance management, cloud computing and email services. Implementing group policies and administering SCCM and Exchange using PowerShell will also be covered.
150-184IT Security Fundamentals2150-153This course will utilize a hands-on approach to teach students to design and implement network security solutions that will reduce the risk of revenue loss and vulnerability. Topics include overall security processes, security policy design and management, security technologies, products and solutions, firewall and secure router design, installation, configuration, and maintenance.
150-185IT Networking Capstone2150-118 and 150-153 and 150-166 and 150-177In the capstone course of the Information Technology Network Specialist Program, the student will demonstrate the collected knowledge, skills, and techniques acquired in the program of study through a variety of assessment methods. Students will demonstrate problem solving, critical thinking, research techniques, and technical writing. Information Technology ethics, professional responsibility, and team dynamics will be emphasized to help round out the student’s education.
809-196Intro to Sociology3This course introduces students to the basic concepts of sociology, including culture, race, socialization, gender, group behavior, deviance, social stratification, and social change. Students will use the sociological perspective to analyze major social institutions, multiculturalism, and social issues affecting our selves and society. Students will participate in a variety of experiences to strengthen and demonstrate these perspectives and skills. Critical thinking skills are emphasized, and learning activities include applying sociological theory to current issues in society. The focus is on how social factors and forces influence beliefs and behaviors, both in our personal lives and at work.
809-271Introductory Sociology3Defines and examines concepts and realities of social structure, the social processes that shape behavior, culture, socialization, social groups, and social change. Analyzes concepts and phenomena such as complex organizations, roles, stratification, class, inequality, deviance, and race. Examines institutions such as the family, religion, education, politics, economics and the media.
809-198Intro to Psychology3This introductory course in psychology is a survey of the multiple aspects of human behavior. It involves a survey of the theoretical foundations of human functioning in such areas as learning, motivation, emotions, personality, deviance and pathology, physiological factors, and social influences. Additional topics include research methods, biological and environmental impacts, development, sensation and perception, consciousness, intelligence and stress. This course directs the student to an insightful understanding of the complexities of human relationships in personal, social, and vocational settings.
809-251General Psychology3The course will encompass all aspects of the field of psychology from basic research to psychological disorders and treatments. This course will explore the areas of psychology through psychological, environmental, and biological perspectives. The course directs the student to be able to understand and analyze human behavior in everyday life. This is a two hundred 200-level psychology course designed to transfer to the university system, and it includes greater emphasis on psychological theory and research as compared with the 100-level Introduction to Psychology course.
TOTAL CREDITS:15
Minimum Program Credits Required: 62
A Grade of "C-" or Higher is Required in All Courses..
2.0 Minimum Program Cumulative GPA Required for Graduation
If a student does not enroll in any courses at CVTC for two or more consecutive semesters, the student will be required to reapply with Admissions. Students must abide by any changes in admission requirements and degree requirements.
Updated: 6/19/2024 9:46 a.m. | Printed: 12/10/2024 9:12 a.m.
Print Page