Computer Network Technology*

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Program Design

The Computer Network Technology Certificate Degree program provides students with both a broad and in-depth background in computer networking concepts and technologies. It covers the fundamentals of computer network theory as well as practical network connectivity device configuration, administration of networked client-server computer operating systems, computer hardware design and maintenance and computer programming.

Students will have hands-on access to HP and CISCO networking equipment. Advanced high-end computer labs allow each student to build individual VMware based virtual networks comprised of large scale client-server configurations.

The Computer Network Technology Certificate program prepares students for entry-level positions in the computer networking and system administration professions.

Students who complete the Computer Network Technology Certificate program and then decide to pursue an Associate in Science degree may apply all of their certificate credits towards the Computer Network Technology A.S. degree program.

Students who are interested in programming should consider the Computer Science A.A. degree.

Curriculum

The certificate is designed to be a two-year program (students may take longer if they wish) and can be completed with all night classes. For students who don’t meet the math prerequisite requirements for either the networking or computer programming courses in the program, MCC offers a wide range of preparatory courses. Math courses are offered fall, spring and summer.

Students have the choice of several programming languages for the one semester of required programming. However, Python is the preferred language and is strongly recommended.

The following sequence of courses is recommended:

1st Semester (FA & SP) CST*131 Networking Theory & Application

2nd Semester (SP) CST*237 SysAdmin I - Client/Server

3rd Semester (FA) CST*238 SysAdmin II - Client/Server

4th Semester (SP) CST*132 Networking Infrastructure

Varies (FA or SP) CST*141 Computer Hardware

Fall and Spring Programming

Note:

Four of the five core courses are only offered once a year in either the fall or spring semester.

CST*131 is a prerequisite for the other four core courses in the program and must be taken first.

CST*237 and CST*238 can be taken in any order, but at least one of them must be taken before CST*132.

Students may wish to consult with a computer science/networking faculty advisor (Richard Gnall rgnall@manchestercc.edu) to plan their program and schedule of classes, and to discuss required course prerequisites.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all Computer Network Technology degree program requirements, graduates will

Differentiate and understand the role and function of various current and emerging technologies, including, but not limited to computer networking, system administration, computer hardware, programming and related Internet technologies.
Implement basic switching and routing technologies used in computer networks.
Demonstrate and implement advanced networking infrastructure concepts.
Demonstrate skill in the installation, configuration, maintenance, upgrading and troubleshooting of computer operating systems at both the workstation and server levels in both stand-alone and networked environments.
Describe basic computer organization and the relationship between hardware components and the operating system.
Demonstrate the ability to understand a problem and develop logically structured solutions through the use of a modern programming language such as Python, Java, C++ or C#.

Required Courses

CST* 131: Networking Theory & Application 4 Credits
CST* 237: SysAdmin I - Client/Server 4 Credits
CST* 238: SysAdmin II - Client/Server 4 Credits
CST* 132: Networking Infrastructure 3 Credits
CST* 141: Computer Hardware 4 Credits
CSC* 124: Programming Logic and Design with Python 3 Credits or
CSC* 127: Java I 3 Credits or
EGR* 230: C++ For Engineers 3 Credits or
CSC* 125: Programming Logic and Design with C++ 3 Credits

Total Credits Required: 22

Note:

*Becoming Connecticut State Community College

A merger of Connecticut’s 12 community colleges is underway. As a part of this merger, modifications will be made to academic programs. Students who do not complete their programs by the end of the Spring 2023 term will be matched with the Connecticut State Community College (CT State) program that most closely aligns with the student’s Spring 2023 program and is offered at the current Manchester Community College location. The College is committed to students completing their education with a minimum of disruption. Further details can be found and will be updated on the Frequently Asked Questions page: www.ct.edu/ctstate/academics.