Information Technology Specialist

Associate of Occupational Studies Degree
18 months (72 weeks)

The Associate of Occupational Studies degree for Information Technology Specialist will appeal to people who want to be part of the exciting world of information technology and support. In the modern workplace, Information Technology (IT) that is effective and reliable is crucial for all aspects of business. This career path is for people who like to plan, coordinate and direct the implementation and support of the information technology systems that drive modern enterprise. Graduates of this program will work in positions where they consult with other managers to determine goals and how to create and maintain the information infrastructure necessary to meet those goals.

Graduates of the ITS program will have the skills and knowledge necessary to assemble, repair and upgrade computers and network hardware. They will be able to install and maintain complex networks that include: cabling and other forms of communication media, routers, firewalls , and switches. They will be able to integrate these systems with advanced server technologies. These systems use contemporary virtualization software, and cloud-based strategies in order to maximize the potential and productivity of modern businesses. Emphasis will be placed on Cisco and VMware technologies. This program will provide students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to obtain entry-level and advanced positions in the Information Technology field. Graduates will be able to do both frontend IT support as well as backend server administration and resource management. In addition, classes will also prepare students to take valuable industry related certification exams such as A+, CISCO, EMC, and VMware. Career College of Northern Nevada is a PearsonVue testing center, and students will be able to take their certification exams on site. Upon successful completion of this program students will receive an Associate of Occupational Studies Degree for Information Technology Specialist.

Nature of the Work

Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of an organization’s computer networks. They organize, install, and support an organization’s computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems. Network and computer systems administrators work with the physical computer networks of a variety of organizations and therefore are employed in many industries.

Job Outlook

Employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow 28 percent from 2010 to 2020, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for these workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks.

OCCUPATIONAL TITLE NETWORK AND COMPUTER SYSTEM ADMINISTRATORS SOC CODE 15-1142

SOURCE: BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK HANDBOOK, 2012-13 EDITION, COMPUTER NETWORK, SYSTEMS, AND DATABASE ADMINISTRATORS, ON THE INTERNET AT http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm