Network Technology Associate in Applied Science (2076)
The Network Technology Associate in Applied Science degree is a comprehensive 64-credit hour program designed to prepare students for professional careers in network administration, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure management. This degree combines technical expertise with essential communication and workplace skills, providing graduates with a well-rounded foundation for success in the technology industry. Students develop proficiency in multiple operating systems including Windows and Linux, master networking fundamentals from basic concepts through advanced routing and wireless technologies, and gain hands-on experience with virtualization, database management, and network security protocols. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through laboratory exercises, programming logic, and real-world experience via work practicum or workplace simulation projects. Graduates are prepared for multiple industry certifications including CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and various Microsoft and Cisco credentials. The program emphasizes current industry practices in hybrid cloud environments, cybersecurity, and emerging networking technologies, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the evolving demands of modern IT infrastructure.
Sample Jobs
Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, Network Engineer, IT Infrastructure Specialist, Technical Support Technician, Network Operations Center (NOC) Manager, IT Project Coordinator, IT Consultant, Cloud Infrastructure Specialist, Enterprise Network Technician
This comprehensive degree program provides the advanced technical skills, professional communication abilities, and practical experience needed for leadership roles in network technology and prepares graduates for career advancement in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and systems administration across all industries.
Graduation Requirements
- Total Credit Hours: 64 credit hours in courses numbered 100 and above
- Cumulative Grade Point Average: 2.00 ('C') or better for all work applicable toward the degree that was completed at Richland
- Residency: 15 credit hours or more at Richland Community College
Curriculum Requirements
Required Courses
| COMM 120 | Business & Professional Speaking | 3.0 |
| Or | |
| COMM 101 | Public Speaking | 3.0 |
| CS 105 | Foundations of Info Technology | 3.0 |
| ENGL 105 | Technical Writing in the Workplace | 3.0 |
| Or | |
| ENGL 101 | Composition 1 | 3.0 |
| IT 116 | Windows Client Operating Systems | 3.0 |
| IT 131 | Programming Logic | 3.0 |
| IT 140 | Introduction to Networking | 3.0 |
| IT 141 | Networking Fundamentals | 4.0 |
| IT 173 | A+ Computer Technologies | 4.0 |
| IT 221 | Database Design Using SQL | 3.0 |
| IT 241 | Network Routing Technologies | 4.0 |
| IT 242 | Wireless Networking | 3.0 |
| IT 245 | Network Security | 3.0 |
| IT 247 | Virtualization Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| IT 271 | Windows Server Operating Systems | 3.0 |
| IT 272 | Linux Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| IT 273 | Managing Windows Networks | 3.0 |
| IT 290 | Work Experience Practicum | 3.0 |
| Or | |
| IT 295 | Workplace Simulation & Projects | 3.0 |
| MATH 104 | Technical Mathematics | 4.0 |
| Or | |
| MATH 116 | College Algebra | 4.0 |
| P REL 100 | Human Relations | 3.0 |
| General Education Elective | 3.0 |
Suggested Course Sequence
Fall Semester
| CS 105 | Foundations of Info Technology | 3.0 |
| IT 116 | Windows Client Operating Systems | 3.0 |
| IT 131 | Programming Logic | 3.0 |
| IT 140 | Introduction to Networking | 3.0 |
| IT 173 | A+ Computer Technologies | 4.0 |
Spring Semester
Summer Semester
Fall Semester
| IT 221 | Database Design Using SQL | 3.0 |
| IT 241 | Network Routing Technologies | 4.0 |
| IT 242 | Wireless Networking | 3.0 |
| IT 247 | Virtualization Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| IT 273 | Managing Windows Networks | 3.0 |
Spring Semester
| General Education Elective | 3.0 |
| IT 245 | Network Security | 3.0 |
| IT 272 | Linux Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| IT 290 | Work Experience Practicum | 3.0 |
| Or | |
| IT 295 | Workplace Simulation & Projects | 3.0 |
| P REL 100 | Human Relations | 3.0 |
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