Program Design
The Computer Network Technology associate 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 associate degree program prepares students for entry-level positions in the computer networking and system administration professions.
Students who are interested in programming should consider the Computer Science A.A. degree.
Curriculum
Students may enroll in this program full- or part-time. With full time attendance, the degree is designed to be a two-year program. The certificate is also a two-year program. Courses are offered during daytime and/or evening hours (the certificate may be completed with all night classes). For students who don’t meet the math prerequisite requirements for either the math or computer programming/networking 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. If the student so chooses, additional semesters of programming can count toward the requirement for two technical electives.
The following sequence of core 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
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.