Applied Computer Technology Associate in Occupational Studies Degree

Power the digital age with an AOS program in Applied Computer Technology. Innovate with cutting-edge tech.


Overview for Applied Computer Technology AOS

Computers are important to all parts of the economy, and the number of careers that involve work with computers is constantly expanding. Students in the associate in occupational studies (AOS) degree program in applied computer technology take courses to prepare them for careers that involve maintaining computer software and hardware, installing and maintaining computer networks, and working with a variety of computer applications. This program is available for qualified deaf and hard of hearing students.

The associate in occupational studies (AOS) degree in applied computer technology, offered by RIT's National Technical Institute for the Deaf, leads to immediate entry-level positions in the computing industry. It prepares you for a career in computer support occupations that involves:

  • Installing, maintaining, upgrading and repairing computer hardware and software.
  • Networking and security that allows computers to be secured and safely communicate and share resources with one another.

Concentrations

As a student in the applied computer technology program, you will select an area to specialize in by choosing a program concentration in either computer technical support or networking and cyber security.

Computer Technical Support Concentration: If you select this concentration, you will develop skills specific to working with people to solve their computer-related problems. These skills prepare you to work at a help desk responding to client's computer problems, and perform setup, upgrades and repairs to computers and computer peripherals.

Networking and Cyber Security Concentration: If you select this concentration, you will develop skills specific to network and network security support, including server set-up, support and administration; network set-up, troubleshooting and repair; identifying and implementing security policies; and installing appropriate hardware and software to support a secure and robust network.

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Careers and Cooperative Education

Typical Job Titles

Computer Technician Computer Support Specialist
Network Technician Network Security Technician
Network Administrator Junior Web Developer

Industries

  • Computer Networking
  • Internet and Software
  • Electronic and Computer Hardware
  • Manufacturing
  • Government (Local, State, Federal)

Cooperative Education

Cooperative education, or co-op for short, is full-time, paid work experience in your field of study. And it sets RIT graduates apart from their competitors. It’s exposure–early and often–to a variety of professional work environments, career paths, and industries. RIT co-op is designed for your success.

Students in the applied computer technology program are required to complete a cooperative education work experience prior to graduation. You may schedule your co-op after completing your second-year academic requirements.

Curriculum for 2023-2024 for Applied Computer Technology AOS

Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements

Applied Computer Technology (computer technical support concentration), AOS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
NACT-150
Intro to PC Hardware
This course introduces the fundamental hardware concepts of Windows-based computers. The skills required to install, upgrade and maintain computers are presented. The course provides students with methodologies and hands-on activities related to the configuration, diagnosis, repair, upgrade, and preventive maintenance of computer hardware, input/output devices and data communications. Topics include the basic functions and use of test equipment, logical troubleshooting of internal system conflicts and faulty peripherals, and electrical safety. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-151
Windows Operating Systems
This course is designed to acquaint students with the structure and function of windows-based operating systems and to provide the skills required to install, configure and maintain them. Topics include system concepts, system level commands, and commands relating to program, file and applications management. Students perform a variety of functions, including OS installation and configuration, application program installation and management, creation and management of directories and file structures, and partitioning and preparation of storage media. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-150 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-155
Introduction to Linux
This course exposes students to the use of Linux and Mac systems for personal and professional purposes. Students will become acquainted with both the graphical interface and command line across various Linux distros. Students will learn basic Linux administration, Linux life cycles, basic network configuration, scripting, and navigation from a terminal window. Students will develop experience in management of their user environment, files, and directory structure. Students are also exposed to administering some common aspects of the operating environments such as groups, users, privileges, and process management. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-150 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-160
Networking Essentials
This course introduces students to the basics of user security on their computers as well as the basics of computer networking. Students will learn the importance of user security and some of the tools and procedures needed to protect and secure their information, computers and networks against attack. Basic concepts and terminology of wired and wireless networking including networking hardware, media, communication technologies and protocols, and network management will be covered. Lab activities will develop skills in installing, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting a basic network. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-161
Client-Server Networks
This course continues the concepts of computer networking with an emphasis on the networking client/server model. Various networking operating systems (NOS) will be examined as well as both peer-to-peer and client/server network applications. NOS hardware and software security tools are investigated and students learn how to install, configure, update/maintain and troubleshoot both the client/server hardware devices as well as the appropriate security tools. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-160 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-170
Intro to Web Development
This course introduces students to designing and coding a multipage web site. Topics include an overview of the internet and web addressing, coding valid HTML and CSS, design principles, implementation on a server, and use of web development software. The use of hyperlinks, graphics, and multimedia in web pages will be covered. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NCAR-010
Freshman Seminar
The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring).
0
NENG-212
NTID General Education Foundation – Career English: Career English I
This is the first course in a two-course sequence. It is designed to develop reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills that students need for AOS course work and for the work environment. The reading and writing components are thoroughly integrated with approximately equal time being devoted to each. Grammar and vocabulary are thoroughly integrated into the reading and writing components. Course content includes general and technical articles, memorandums, letters, electronic communication, directions, work-related forms, and short report. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NENG-113 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
NENG-213
NTID General Education Foundation – Career English: Career English II
This is the second course in a two-course sequence. It is designed to advance and refine reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills that students need for AOS course work and for the work environment. The reading and writing components are thoroughly integrated with approximately equal time being devoted to each. Grammar and vocabulary are thoroughly integrated into the reading and writing components. Course content includes general and technical articles, memorandums, letters, electronic communication, directions, work-related forms, and short reports. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NENG-212 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
 
NTID General Education Foundation – Mathematics†
3
Second Year
NACT-200
Help Desk Support
This course focuses on key information and proficiencies needed to support users, including troubleshooting, problem solving, successful communication, determining a client's needs, and using appropriate people skills. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-151 and NACT-161 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-230
Introduction to Programming
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and terminology of computer programming. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem-solving skills in designing and writing simple computer programs. The course covers such topics as developing flowcharts, algorithms and pseudocode, and introduces students to variables, operators, conditional statements, looping statements, data structures, error-handling and debugging, and user interface design. The course assumes no programming background. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 with a grade of C or better and one (1) math class NMTH-140 or above or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-235
Intro to Database Applications
In this course students will learn to create database tables, queries, forms and reports using a leading database software product for personal computers. Students will also learn how to design a database from user specifications, and to form basic SQL commands. (NTID Supported Students.) Lecture 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-240
The World of Work
The goal of the course is to provide students with the business-related skills to acquire a cooperative or permanent job, and the personal and social skills to succeed on the job. Topics related to workplace communication and relationships, as well as financial management, employer expectations, and personal goal setting will also be covered. The course will also include the development of job search skills, resume writing and interviewing, along with skills in word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software as needed in the workplace. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-155 and NACT-161 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
NACT-253
Cloud Computing Concepts
This course introduces students to basic technical and business-related principles related to cloud computing in the workplace. Students will develop an overall understanding of cloud services and platform-specific implementations of cloud computing. Additionally, students will learn key terminology and be able to demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of cloud concepts, services, workloads, security, and privacy. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-255
A+ Certification Prep
This course will prepare students to pass the two certification tests necessary to earn CompTIA's A+ Certification. Students will review material from previous courses and complete practice exams and troubleshooting exercises in preparation for the exam. In addition to text book(s), students will be required to purchase two certification exam vouchers for this course. To pass the course, students must pass both certification exams. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-200 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-295
ACT Technical Capstone
This course provides an opportunity for students to work on technical projects that integrate the skills they have developed in earlier Applied Computer Technology courses. Students will work both independently and in teams to solve "real world" networking and computer support problems in a professional manner. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 and NACT-200 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).
3
NACT-299
Co-op: Applied Computer Tech
This course provides students with a 350-hour work experience in the computer field. Students have an opportunity to gain experience on the job, to apply what they have learned in their course work, and to evaluate their own technical, communication, and interpersonal skills. Placement assistance is provided to help students find a relevant work experience. (Prerequisite: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-240 and NACT-295 or equivalent courses.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer).
0
 
NTID General Education – Perspective‡
3
Third Year
NACT-250
Computer and Data Security
This course will explore the unique computer and data security issues encountered by computer technicians. Using current computer security tools and procedures, students will develop more advanced skills in finding and eliminating security weaknesses, breaches, and malware programs. Computer security incident response procedures will also be introduced in this course. Hands-on lab activities will be used to reinforce concepts and to provide real-life situations that give students experience in handling suspected security breaches. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-151 and NACT-161 and NACT-253 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
 
ACT Program Electives§
6
 
NTID General Education – Perspective‡
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
63

Please see the NTID General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.

Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing associate degrees are required to complete one Wellness course.

† NTID mathematics course NMTH-120 or higher. It is recommended that students take NMTH-140 Mathematics in Society. Students who place above NMTH-140 can take math or a 3-credit course from any non-science perspective category.

‡ NTID General Education Perspective courses may be from any of these three Perspective categories: ASL-Deaf Cultural Studies; Communication, Social & Global Awareness; and Creative and Innovative Exploration.

§ Please see list of ACT program electives below.

Applied Computer Technology (networking and cyber security concentration), AOS degree, typical course sequence

Course Sem. Cr. Hrs.
First Year
NACT-150
Intro to PC Hardware
This course introduces the fundamental hardware concepts of Windows-based computers. The skills required to install, upgrade and maintain computers are presented. The course provides students with methodologies and hands-on activities related to the configuration, diagnosis, repair, upgrade, and preventive maintenance of computer hardware, input/output devices and data communications. Topics include the basic functions and use of test equipment, logical troubleshooting of internal system conflicts and faulty peripherals, and electrical safety. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-151
Windows Operating Systems
This course is designed to acquaint students with the structure and function of windows-based operating systems and to provide the skills required to install, configure and maintain them. Topics include system concepts, system level commands, and commands relating to program, file and applications management. Students perform a variety of functions, including OS installation and configuration, application program installation and management, creation and management of directories and file structures, and partitioning and preparation of storage media. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-150 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-155
Non-Windows Operating Systems
This course exposes students to the use of Linux and Mac systems for personal and professional purposes. Students will become acquainted with both the graphical interface and command line across various Linux distros. Students will learn basic Linux administration, Linux life cycles, basic network configuration, scripting, and navigation from a terminal window. Students will develop experience in management of their user environment, files, and directory structure. Students are also exposed to administering some common aspects of the operating environments such as groups, users, privileges, and process management. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-150 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-160
Networking Essentials
This course introduces students to the basics of user security on their computers as well as the basics of computer networking. Students will learn the importance of user security and some of the tools and procedures needed to protect and secure their information, computers and networks against attack. Basic concepts and terminology of wired and wireless networking including networking hardware, media, communication technologies and protocols, and network management will be covered. Lab activities will develop skills in installing, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting a basic network. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-161
Client-Server Networks
This course continues the concepts of computer networking with an emphasis on the networking client/server model. Various networking operating systems (NOS) will be examined as well as both peer-to-peer and client/server network applications. NOS hardware and software security tools are investigated and students learn how to install, configure, update/maintain and troubleshoot both the client/server hardware devices as well as the appropriate security tools. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-160 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-170
Intro to Web Development
This course introduces students to designing and coding a multipage web site. Topics include an overview of the internet and web addressing, coding valid HTML and CSS, design principles, implementation on a server, and use of web development software. The use of hyperlinks, graphics, and multimedia in web pages will be covered. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NCAR-010
Freshman Seminar
The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring).
0
NENG-212
NTID General Education Foundation – Career English: Career English I
This is the first course in a two-course sequence. It is designed to develop reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills that students need for AOS course work and for the work environment. The reading and writing components are thoroughly integrated with approximately equal time being devoted to each. Grammar and vocabulary are thoroughly integrated into the reading and writing components. Course content includes general and technical articles, memorandums, letters, electronic communication, directions, work-related forms, and short report. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NENG-113 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
NENG-213
NTID General Education Foundation – Career English: Career English II
This is the second course in a two-course sequence. It is designed to advance and refine reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills that students need for AOS course work and for the work environment. The reading and writing components are thoroughly integrated with approximately equal time being devoted to each. Grammar and vocabulary are thoroughly integrated into the reading and writing components. Course content includes general and technical articles, memorandums, letters, electronic communication, directions, work-related forms, and short reports. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NENG-212 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
3
 
NTID General Education Foundation – Mathematics†
3
Second Year
NACT-200
Help Desk Support
This course focuses on key information and proficiencies needed to support users, including troubleshooting, problem solving, successful communication, determining a client's needs, and using appropriate people skills. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-151 and NACT-161 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-230
Introduction to Programming
This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and terminology of computer programming. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem-solving skills in designing and writing simple computer programs. The course covers such topics as developing flowcharts, algorithms and pseudocode, and introduces students to variables, operators, conditional statements, looping statements, data structures, error-handling and debugging, and user interface design. The course assumes no programming background. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 with a grade of C or better and one (1) math class NMTH-140 or above or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-235
Intro to Database Applications
In this course students will learn to create database tables, queries, forms and reports using a leading database software product for personal computers. Students will also learn how to design a database from user specifications, and to form basic SQL commands. (NTID Supported Students.) Lecture 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-240
The World of Work
The goal of the course is to provide students with the business-related skills to acquire a cooperative or permanent job, and the personal and social skills to succeed on the job. Topics related to workplace communication and relationships, as well as financial management, employer expectations, and personal goal setting will also be covered. The course will also include the development of job search skills, resume writing and interviewing, along with skills in word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software as needed in the workplace. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-155 and NACT-161 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lecture 3 (Fall).
3
NACT-260
LAN WAN Design
This course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience with multi-protocol routers and multi-switched networks. The class includes basic router operations, architecture, and configuration; switched Ethernet networks; virtual LAN technology; configuration of switching devices; and troubleshooting. Students set up, wire, and configure expansion technologies in an internet work environment. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
NACT-261
Network Security
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of computer and data network security. Students will examine an infrastructure design process for securing computer systems and data networks, as well as methodologies and best practices for implementing security, security policies, security testing, and incident response. The underlying principles used to secure networks including security technologies, intrusion detection, authentication, and cryptography basics will be discussed. This course will also introduce students to network security planning, technology, and organization, and the legal and ethical issues associated with network security. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
3
NACT-295
ACT Technical Capstone
This course provides an opportunity for students to work on technical projects that integrate the skills they have developed in earlier Applied Computer Technology courses. Students will work both independently and in teams to solve "real world" networking and computer support problems in a professional manner. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 and NACT-200 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).
3
NACT-299
Co-op: Applied Computer Tech
This course provides students with a 350-hour work experience in the computer field. Students have an opportunity to gain experience on the job, to apply what they have learned in their course work, and to evaluate their own technical, communication, and interpersonal skills. Placement assistance is provided to help students find a relevant work experience. (Prerequisite: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-240 and NACT-295 or equivalent courses.) CO OP (Fall, Spring, Summer).
0
 
NTID General Education – Perspective‡
3
Third Year
NACT-262
Fundamentals of System Administration
This course extends students' skills at securing and managing networks and servers. Students taking the course will practice implementing and administering networked servers in multiple operating systems by managing server devices, file systems, users and groups, and application software. Students will design and test custom LAN environments, using both physical and virtual computers and servers. Students will also learn to secure shared data across platforms, securing both the physical/virtual network environment and the operating systems' shared resources. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-155 and NACT-260 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
3
 
ACT Program Electives§
6
 
NTID General Education – Perspective‡
3
Total Semester Credit Hours
63

Please see the NTID General Education Curriculum (GE) for more information.

Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing associate degrees are required to complete one Wellness course.

† NTID mathematics course NMTH-120 or higher. It is recommended that students take NMTH-140 Mathematics in Society. Students who place above NMTH-140 can take math or a 3 credit-course from any non-science perspective category

‡ NTID General Education Perspective courses may be from any of these three Perspective categories: ASL-Deaf Cultural Studies; Communication, Social & Global Awareness; and Creative and Innovative Exploration.

§ Please see list of ACT program electives below.

ACT program electives

NACC-130
Personal Finance
This course provides students with information and resources needed to understand the creation and implementation of a budget, use of credit and borrowing money responsibly, financial rights and ways to safeguard their money, and factors used to determine their readiness to buy a home or make other major purchases. Information on financial institutions such as banks, credit unions, and savings and loan organizations will also be covered. This course will provide students with basic financial literacy so they can develop sound financial management of their personal income as well as an understanding of the economic events that can influence their financial well being and society as a whole. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).
NACT-250
Computer and Data Security§
This course will explore the unique computer and data security issues encountered by computer technicians. Using current computer security tools and procedures, students will develop more advanced skills in finding and eliminating security weaknesses, breaches, and malware programs. Computer security incident response procedures will also be introduced in this course. Hands-on lab activities will be used to reinforce concepts and to provide real-life situations that give students experience in handling suspected security breaches. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-151 and NACT-161 and NACT-253 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
NACT-251
Digital Systems Integration§
This course explores the technologies of control/automated systems. Some of these technologies include, but are not limited to, the control and management of security and surveillance systems, lighting control systems, access control systems, communication systems, assistive technologies and other automated features. This course will provide a basis for connecting, configuring, testing, controlling, and maintaining these systems. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-155 and NACT-160 and NACT- 230 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NACT-252
Server Management & Security
Students taking the course will learn to implement and administer network servers by managing server devices, file systems, users and groups, and application software. Students will also learn how to monitor and fine-tune server security and performance and to implement backup and fault tolerance. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-151 and NACT-161 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
NACT-253
Cloud Computing Concepts§
This course introduces students to basic technical and business-related principles related to cloud computing in the workplace. Students will develop an overall understanding of cloud services and platform-specific implementations of cloud computing. Additionally, students will learn key terminology and be able to demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of cloud concepts, services, workloads, security, and privacy. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NACT-255
A+ Certification Prep§
This course will prepare students to pass the two certification tests necessary to earn CompTIA's A+ Certification. Students will review material from previous courses and complete practice exams and troubleshooting exercises in preparation for the exam. In addition to text book(s), students will be required to purchase two certification exam vouchers for this course. To pass the course, students must pass both certification exams. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-200 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NACT-260
LAN WAN Design†
This course is designed to provide students with hands-on experience with multi-protocol routers and multi-switched networks. The class includes basic router operations, architecture, and configuration; switched Ethernet networks; virtual LAN technology; configuration of switching devices; and troubleshooting. Students set up, wire, and configure expansion technologies in an internet work environment. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
NACT-261
Network Security†
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of computer and data network security. Students will examine an infrastructure design process for securing computer systems and data networks, as well as methodologies and best practices for implementing security, security policies, security testing, and incident response. The underlying principles used to secure networks including security technologies, intrusion detection, authentication, and cryptography basics will be discussed. This course will also introduce students to network security planning, technology, and organization, and the legal and ethical issues associated with network security. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-161 or equivalent course with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NACT-262
Fundamentals of System Administration†
This course extends students' skills at securing and managing networks and servers. Students taking the course will practice implementing and administering networked servers in multiple operating systems by managing server devices, file systems, users and groups, and application software. Students will design and test custom LAN environments, using both physical and virtual computers and servers. Students will also learn to secure shared data across platforms, securing both the physical/virtual network environment and the operating systems' shared resources. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-155 and NACT-260 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall).
NACT-265
Network+ Certification Prep
The course will prepare students to take and pass the CompTIA's Network+ Certification exam. Students will review material from previous courses and complete practice exams and troubleshooting exercises in preparation for the exam. In addition to textbook(s), students will be required to purchase a certification exam voucher for this course. Students must pass the certification exam to pass the course. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-200 and NACT-260 and NACT-261 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Fall, Spring).
NACT-266
Network Defense Technologies
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of the technologies used to defend a network against security attacks. Students will be introduced to the concepts, principles, types, and topologies of current and future defense technologies. Various defense methodologies associated with various Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and future technologies will be covered. Students will also learn best practices associated with remotely securing and accessing business resources. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-260 and NACT-261 or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 5 (Spring).
NACT-270
Web Applications
This course continues to build students' skills in developing well-designed webpages using the most current web development tools. By creating server-side scripts combined with embedded SQL students will be able to build professional-quality, database-driven websites. Accessibility issues related to website development will also be emphasized. Only limited programming experience is required. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 and NACT-230 and NACT-235 or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NACT-271
Client-Side Scripting
This course is an introduction to client-side scripting for the Internet using a common scripting language. Students will be introduced to the syntax of the scripting language, and then learn to build practical and interactive client-side applications. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-170 and NACT-230 or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall).
NACT-275
Security+ Certification Prep
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of the technologies used to defend a network against security attacks. Students will be introduced to the concepts, principles, types, and topologies of current and future defense technologies. Various defense methodologies associated with various Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and future technologies will be covered. Students will also learn best practices associated with remotely securing and accessing business resources. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students who have completed NACT-200 and NACT-250 and NACT-260 and NACT-261 or equivalent courses with a grade of C or better.) Lec/Lab 4 (Spring).
NAIS-130
Raster and Vector Graphics
This course introduces students to the skills needed for the successful production and manipulation of raster and vector images using image creation and production software. Students will work in bitmap and vector applications, producing and editing with the tools and techniques offered by the software programs such as selection techniques, basic layer controls, digital masking, image correction and enhancement. Additional topics will include the relevance of image size, resolution and file format specifications when working with raster and vector images. Comprehension and correct usage of terminology and concepts are emphasized. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).
NAIS-160
Web Design I
This course introduces students to the fundamental skills needed to create designs that work on the World Wide Web. Students are introduced to the Internet, learn basic HTML programming for graphics, and legal issues of the Internet. Text based technology is used to separate design from content using templates and cascading style sheets (CSS). Topics such as image preparation, page design, site graphic design, navigation & linking, content, usability, speed, originality and audience are discussed. Students are expected to create web pages that demonstrate their understanding and use of basic application of the above topics. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring).
NBUS-200
Orientation to Business
This course introduces students to a broad overview of the form and structure of multinational organizations. It provides students with a basic knowledge of the history, organization and operation of business and its particular vocabulary. (NTID Supported Students.) Lecture 4 (Fall, Spring).
NBUS-227
Principles of Marketing
This course introduces the field of marketing and its focus on how consumer purchasing behavior impacts the marketplace (domestically and internationally). Emphasis will be placed on understanding the customers' needs and wants, marketing mix and its impact on the external market environment. Students will demonstrate the marketing concepts, principles and strategies through the development of a marketing plan. (NTID Supported Students.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).
NGRP-220
Videography
This course provides an overview of videography for the web. This is a basic digital video course that introduces the process and procedures involved in digital video production from start to finish. Students will be introduced to videography production techniques, camera operation and formats, digital non-linear editing, titling and lighting for video. Emphasis is on development of ideas, proper operation of video and computer equipment for productions and post-production of digital non-linear edited sequences and their adaptation to different presentation formats for online delivery. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall).

§ Students taking the NCS concentration may take this course from the CTS concentration as an elective.

† Students taking the CTS concentration may take this course from the NCS concentration as an elective.

Admissions and Financial Aid

For the career-focused AOS degree

  • 2 years of math required
  • 1 year of science required
  • English language skills as evidenced by application materials determine associate degree options.

Specific English, mathematics, and science requirements and other recommendations

Successful completion of a sampling experience in applied computer technology, either through the Summer Vestibule Program or equivalent career exploration course, is a prerequisite for this program, as are the following:

  • English: Placement into Career English I (NENG-212) or above. Students successfully completing the AOS degree typically enter with reading scores of 79 or higher on the NTID Reading Test and writing scores of 39 or higher on the NTID Writing Test.
  • Mathematics: Placement into Mathematics in Society (NMTH-140) or a higher-level course. Typically, students entering this major will have completed at least three years of high school mathematics.
  • Science: Typically, students entering this major will have completed at least two years of high school science.
  • ACT (optional): The ACT middle 50% composite score is 14-17.

Learn How to Apply

Financial Aid and Scholarships

100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.

RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships

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