Online Study
Networking and Systems Administration
Program Overview
The advanced certificate program in Networking and Systems Administration consists of a five course sequence for those students with a Bachelor’s Degree and the prerequisite knowledge gained through work experience or approved course work. The program’s objective is to provide students with the knowledge and expertise needed to seek or further careers in the administration of computer networks and systems. The program will be available in an on-line format as well as the conventional on-campus format. The on-line availability of this program will provide a career-enhancing educational opportunity to those who are currently employed in a computing field. The program offers a part-time studies option, and students may begin the program during any academic quarter.
Curriculum Review
The five courses in the advanced certificate were selected to provide the knowledge to ensure graduates will be able to identify and deploy tools and techniques used in the administration of computer networks and to assume leadership roles in the administration of these networks. These courses also ensure graduates will be able to discuss and develop policies, procedures, and standards needed to enhance the security of the networks. Some of these courses will transfer into the MS in Networking and Systems Administration and the MS in Computer Security and Information Assurance. Those who complete this program will be prepared to assess and address network and systems administration issues that arise in small to medium size businesses or to continue their education through the pursuit of advanced degrees. Others will serve as bridge courses for those programs.
Required Courses
0102-740 Organizational Behavior
4055-721 PERL for Systems Administration
4055-746 Telecom Network Protocols or 4055-815 Introduction to Switching and Routing
4055-761 Principles of Systems Administration
4055-882 Enterprise Security
Admission Requirements
The proposed certificate program will be available to all students with the prerequisite knowledge and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Applicants must have a four-year baccalaureate or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited institution. Students will be expected to have a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0 (‘B’ average) in their undergraduate work. Applicants with a GPA that is less than 3.0 may be considered, but may be required to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) exam.
International applicants will be required to have prior academic performance equivalent to a 3.0 GPA or a first class diploma from an accredited four-year program. The GRE (standard examination) will be required for all foreign applicants. International applicants will also be required to submit official transcripts of undergraduate/graduate study in original form, and if not originally in English, an official, certified copy of transcripts translated into English will be required.
Applicants whose native language is other than English will be required to submit a TOEFL score to demonstrate strong English language skills. A score of at least 570 (paper based), 230 (computer based), or 88 (internet based) will be required. Students failing to meet these criteria will not be accepted until TOEFL criteria met. The Michigan test will be required for course placement, and the applicants will be required to take a prescribed program of study in English along with a reduced course load in the program if deemed necessary.
Other factors may be considered in the admission process such as strong employment history, especially in the networking or system administration.
In addition, applicants must satisfy the prerequisites of the program before matriculating in the program. These prerequisites are:
• A basic knowledge of PC and PC operating systems
• Basic knowledge in object oriented programming language