Part-time Study
Applied Networking and System Administration
Program Overview
Networking is the technology of interconnecting multiple computers so that information can flow between them. As the number of computers in the network scales up, the task becomes more difficult, involving design tradeoffs, performance considerations, and cost issues. Applied networking refers to the design, construction, and operation of computer networks using “off the shelf” components.System administration refers to the installation, configuration, and operation of a computer system. This includes the specification and implementation of server hardware and software. System administration is also concerned with system security and the privacy of the information that the server maintains. In today’s information-rich environment, servers exist in a network and often work together to perform a common function.The BS degree program in applied networking and system administration is designed to teach students how to be the designers, implementers, and operators of computing networks and networked systems (both clients and servers). Graduates of the program will be able to evaluate existing networks and computing systems, suggest improvements, monitor such systems for faults, and plan for growth. They will work in small- to largescale companies. Any place that computers and networks are employed will need graduates of this program.
An important goal of the program is to provide students with a level of specialization in this area beyond that provided by information systems or information technology programs. Focusing specifically on the network or the computing system, and forsaking the application domain that such programs address, accomplishes this. That is, the program favors depth over breadth. It is this depth that allows the faculty to impart the appropriate level of detail to the student.
Program overview
To graduate with a BS in applied networking and system
administration, you must complete 181 credit hours. Entering
freshmen will earn most (if not all) of those credits at RIT.
For transfer students, some of those credits will be transferred
into RIT from a previous school(s).
The 181 credits that you need to graduate are broken down a follows:
• 80 credits of Networking and System Administration
(60 credits core, 20 credits advanced track)
• 36 credits of Liberal Arts
• 24 credits of Math and Science
• 18 credits of General Education Electives
• 23 credits of Free Electives
The networking and system administration courses are of two types: required core courses and the advanced track. The core includes a programming sequence, a competency course in multimedia, a competency course in database, and a sequence in user-centered deployment. These are in addition to fundamental courses in computer networking and system administration. In addition to 60 credits of core courses, you will select 20 credits of advanced work.
Cooperative education
The BS in applied networking and system administration
requires that the student complete three quarters of co-op.
Typically, the first of these is completed during the summer
following the second year and the others are in the spring and
summer of the third year.
Part-time study
The BS in applied networking and system administration is
available on a part-time basis. Courses are available both during
the day and in the evening, to accommodate those who work,
regardless of their schedules. The typical evening student requires
25 quarters to complete the BS degree.
Curriculum Review
Sample course sequence:Year 1
1016-204 Algebra and Trigonometry
4002-217 IT Programming I
1016-205 Discrete Math for Technologists I
4002-218 IT Programming II
1016-206 Discrete Math for Technologists II
4002-219 IT Programming III
4050-341 Data Communications
4050-340 Computer Platform Fundamentals
Year 2
4050-342 Principles of Networking
Liberal Arts
4050-402 Operating System Scripting
4050-403 Concepts of Wireless Networking
4050-515 Introduction to Routing and Switching
Year 3
4050-516 Network Services
Lab Science Electives
Liberal Arts
4050-421 System Administration I
4002-320 Introduction to Multimedia: Internet and the Web
Year 4
4002-455 Needs Assessment
1016-319 Data Analysis
Liberal Arts
4002-360 Database and Data Modeling
Year 5
Advanced Track and
Free Electives
General Education Electives
Year 6
4002-460 Technology Transfer
General Education Electives
Free Electives