Associate Degree Specialization in Network Systems Administration
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-05-05 | - |
Program Overview
DeVry University's Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking with a Specialization in Network Systems Administration equips students with skills in network design, security, and management for a wide range of career opportunities in network administration and support. Offered in online and hybrid formats, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary skills relevant to the IoT economy and provides students with a complimentary laptop and potential reimbursement for certification exam attempts. Graduates may pursue careers as Computer Network Support Specialists, Local Area Network Administrators, and more.
Program Outline
The program emphasizes a foundation in interdisciplinary skills relevant to the Internet of Things (IoT) economy. It's offered in a 100% online format or a hybrid format, allowing for flexible scheduling. The program covers fundamentals of network design, security, and management best practices, exploring network protocols (LAN, VLAN, VoIP, WAN, and cloud-based networks), and the interface, connection, and security of multiple computing systems and software platforms. Additional topics include business continuity and disaster recovery, firewall architecture, and an introduction to cryptography. The program offers a minimum completion time of 1 year and 4 months and a normal completion time of 2 years. A complimentary laptop is provided to students (certain restrictions apply). Qualified students may receive up to a $300 reimbursement for the cost of one certification exam attempt (CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Cloud Essentials+, and potentially others).
Outline:
The curriculum includes modules covering:
- Network Protocols: Examines protocols, internetworking, routing/congestion, network topologies, and performance analysis related to technologies like wireless networking and VoIP.
- LAN, VLAN, and WAN Network Design: Covers the underlying technology of LANs, VLANs, WANs, and the internet.
- Wireless Routers and Clients: Focuses on establishing and administering a network by installing, configuring, securing, testing, and troubleshooting clients and hardware like network servers and routers.
- Identify and Mitigate Network Risk: Explores analyzing internal and external security threats and implementing security mechanisms; evaluating network and internet security issues; designing information systems security policy; troubleshooting networks; and implementing digital signatures.
- Data Analysis: Teaches drawing conclusions by finding patterns and relationships in numerical data using statistical analysis tools and applying data analysis to create more efficient databases.
- Digital Literacy: Covers applying appropriate technologies to solve digital issues and problems within databases.
- Communicate Methods and Findings: Focuses on communicating the rationale behind research methods and recommendations, presenting performance objectives, issues, and solutions.
- Collaborate in Dynamic Work Environments: Emphasizes collaboration with colleagues in various locations and environments to coordinate and share information.
- Complex Problem-Solving: Develops critical and analytical thinking to identify complex problems, evaluate options, and implement solutions.
Teaching:
The program utilizes a "tech-powered learning approach."
Careers:
Graduates may pursue careers such as Computer Network Support Specialist, Local Area Network Administrator, Network Technical Analyst, and Computer Systems Analyst.
Other:
The program starts on May 5, 2025. The program, course, and extended classroom availability vary by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program. The complimentary laptop is issued during the student’s second session. At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur, and the most beneficial outcome will be applied. Future programmatic changes could impact the application of credits to a future program.
Overview:
DeVry University is a private, for-profit university that offers online and on-campus degree programs in various fields, including business, healthcare, and technology. It is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and holds specialized programmatic accreditation or recognition for many of its offerings.
Services Offered:
DeVry University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Online and on-campus degree programs:
Associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, as well as undergraduate and graduate certificates.Financial aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and payment plans.Career services:
Career resources, career services, and career field exploration.Student support:
Online tutoring, virtual library, and student support services.Prior learning assessment:
Credit for prior work experience or training.Transfer credit evaluation:
Assistance with transferring credits from previous schools.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
Flexible learning options:
Online and on-campus programs cater to diverse student needs.Career-focused curriculum:
Programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers.Accreditation and recognition:
Ensures quality education and meets industry standards.Financial aid and scholarship opportunities:
Makes education more affordable.Dedicated student support:
Provides resources and guidance throughout the academic journey.Academic Programs:
DeVry University offers a variety of academic programs, including:
Business:
Accounting, Business, Human Resource Management, Management, Sales and Marketing, Project Management, Master's of Project Management (MPM), Master's of Business Administration (MBA).Healthcare:
Health Administration, Health Information Technology, Health Information Management, Medical Billing and Coding.Technology:
Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Engineering Technology, Information Technology and Networking, Media Arts and Technology, Software and Information Systems, Website Design.Keller Graduate School of Management:
Master's of Business Administration (MBA), Master's of Accounting and Finance, Master's of Human Resources, Master's of Information Technology, Master's of Project Management.Other:
DeVry University is committed to accountability, transparency, and equitable access to technology education. It has a strong focus on student success and provides a variety of resources to help students achieve their academic and career goals.
