Network Systems Technology, Associate in Science

The purpose of this program is to prepare students to enter the workforce as data communications analysts, network technicians, computer security specialists, network security specialists, cybersecurity specialists, network specialists, network managers, network systems analysts, network systems technicians, network troubleshooters, WAN/LAN managers; or systems administrators. Students will select from one of three degree specialties-Advanced Network Infrastructure, Network Virtualization or Cybersecurity-Network Security. Program completers will receive training that will prepare them to take the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT), Certified Cisco Networking Associate (CCNA), A+, Security+ and Network+ certification exams. These exams are not offered on campus.

PHSC offers several certificates that can be earned as students work toward AS degrees. The Associate in Science degree in Network Systems Technology includes certificates in Network Infrastructure, Network Support Technician and Network Virtualization.

Upon completion, students need to contact the Admissions and Student Records office to apply for certificate(s). Students are encouraged to complete courses in the AS degree program.

This AS degree requires the completion of 60 credit hours. It consists of 18 program core hours, 24 specialty hours and 18 General Education hours.

Program Code: AS-NST

The following 24 hours apply specifically to the Network Systems Technology/Advanced Network Infrastructure specialization:

CET 1600	Networking Fundamentals—Cisco Academy	3 cr.
CET 1610	Routing and Switching Essentials—Cisco Academy	3 cr.
CET 2615	Scaling Networks—Cisco Academy	3 cr.
CET 2620	Connecting Networks—Cisco Academy	3 cr.
CET 2793	Windows Server Administration	3 cr.
CNT 1401	Principles of Information Security	3 cr.
CTS 1109	Virtualization Essentials	3 cr.

CIS 2941	Information Technology Internship	3 cr.
	or
CTS 2123	Network Security and Intrusion Detection	3 cr.
	Total Credit Hours:	24

The following program core of 18 hours applies to all IT degree programs:

CET 1179	Microcomputer Repair Essentials	3 cr.
CGS 1000	Computer Concepts	3 cr.
CGS 2304	Managing Information Technology	3 cr.
CNT 1000	Introduction to Networking	3 cr.
CTS 1110	Microcomputer Software Essentials	3 cr.
COP 1000	Introduction to Software Development	3 cr.
	Total Credit Hours:	18

The following 18 hours meet the General Education requirements:

CGS 1100	Microcomputer Applications	3 cr.
ENC 1101	English Composition I	3 cr.
	Any Area II Mathematics course listed in the Associate in Science Degree Program Requirements	3 cr.
	Any Area III Natural Sciences course listed in the Associate in Science Degree Program Requirements	3 cr.
	Any Area IV Social and Behavioral Sciences course listed in the Associate in Science Degree Program Requirements	3 cr.
	Any Area V Humanities course listed in the Associate in Science Degree Program Requirements	3 cr.
	Total Credit Hours:	18

Any Area Mathematics course - Note: Students wishing to transfer to a bachelor program should take MAC 1105.

Note(s): Three hours of credit will be granted toward an Associate in Science degree in Networking Systems Technology for the successful completion with a "C" average or better in Web Internet Services at the Marchman Technical Center. Credit will be awarded for Computer Concepts (CGS 1000).

Students must receive a high school diploma and successfully complete 15 hours of college-level credit in classroom instruction at PHSC before credit will be given. To be awarded credit, a student must send a copy of a completed Request for Credit for Articulated Programs from Marchman Technical Center (Form SAR-50) to the director of admissions and student records after the student has completed 15 hours. This form is available in the Student Affairs office on each campus.

Total Credit Hours: 60