Computer network operations is the study of computer hardware, software, and networks. Read on to learn more about associate's degree programs in computer network operations. See about online and campus-based program options and what you'll study. Learn what education programs and professional certifications this degree will prepare you for.
What's an Associate's Degree in Computer Network Operations?
If you want to study computer network operations at the associate's level, you can enroll in an associate's degree program in networking technology. This is a two-year course of study that can prepare you to apply for entry-level information technology (IT) positions in networking, such as network control technician, local area network (LAN) technician or data communications support specialist. You can find this degree on traditional college campuses and in distance-learning formats; if you choose to enroll in an online program, you'll need a computer that meets minimum technical requirements and has access to the Internet.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Information</b></td><td>Available on-campus and online, two-year course of study</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>Wireless network administration, project management, technical writing, network security, computer repair</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Continuing Education</b></td><td>Bachelor's degree, professional certifications in the field</td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Median Salary (2020)*</b> </td><td>$84,810 (<i>for all network and computer systems administrators</i>) </td></tr>
<tr><td><b> Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td>4% growth (<i>for all network and computer systems administrators</i>) </td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>In an associate's degree program in network technology, you can expect to learn about industry-standard networking technology and practices. Most courses of study require you to take general education classes as well. You could also learn about other areas of computer science, such as hardware repair, software development, programming or information security. Some programs allow you to specialize in a particular kind of network or to sit for a certain professional networking credential exam. The following are examples of classes you might find in the curriculum:
</p><ul><li>Technical writing
</li><li>Cisco networking
</li><li>Network security and preventative measures
</li><li>Windows networks
</li><li>Wireless network administration
</li><li>Project management
</li><li>Routing and switching
</li><li>Network design
</li></ul><h3 id="section---CanIContinueMyEducation">Can I Continue My Education?</h3><p>After you graduate from an associate's degree program in network technology, you can continue your education at the bachelor's level. Bachelor's degree programs are four-year courses of study and may allow you to transfer credit you earned in your associate's degree program. An associate's degree in networking could make you eligible for bachelor's degree programs in computer science, software engineering, computer programming, network administration or hardware engineering, among others.
</p><p>You could also earn professional certifications in networking. Many large IT corporations offer professional certifications that show you can manage their networks proficiently. For example, you could earn a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) credentials.</p>
