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Networking Technology

The TelecommunicationsProgram and the Network Technologies Program are offered at The North Carolina School of Telecommunications. The NCST is located at 5910 Clyde Rhyne Drive, Sanford, North Carolina and is at the heart of the Lee County Industrial Park. The NCST, a division of Central Carolina Community College, is designed specifically for Hands-On / High-Touch learning. These converged communication programs provide needed experience and training expected by today's professionals. Additionally a strong partnership exists between the North Carolina Telecommunication Industry Association and the NCST. This partnership offers NCST students a unique connection with industry leaders and insight into emerging technologies before they enter day-to-day operations.

The Networking Program is designed for individuals desiring accelerated training. Selected students find it possible to complete all networking specific courses in two college semesters. They continue their education by completing the remaining non-discipline specific courses through distance, hybrid, day, and evening classes. This accelerated format opens the possibility of finding employment, while remaining a part-time or a full-time student.

The networking professional enjoys working with technologies and people. The Network Technology program enables people to develop and utilize networking and computing skills, as well as improve and enhance personal communication skills. Successful networkers enjoy working in a hands-on environment planning, installing and configuring equipment, and utilizing problem-solving strategies.

Students are introduced to networking technology, operating systems, computer programming and logic, and database concepts. This is followed by specialized training in network system integration, management, maintenance, and support.

Network and computer operating systems, computer diagnostics, and cabling infrastructure are studied with an accent on routing and switching. Students receive training on Microsoft, UNIX/Linux, Cisco Networking, advanced diagnostics, and A+ certification preparation. Instruction on, security, wireless networking and VoIP is available.

Although networking and computers certainly play a major role in this program, prior knowledge of computers is not necessary.

Graduates find employment in such positions as local area network (LAN) administrators, network specialists, network control operators, communications technicians, and microcomputer support specialists. As is true in the workplace, the more experience and training an employee has, the more employment opportunities will be available.

Estimates indicate graduates with an Associate in Applied Science may initially earn from $30,000 to $45,000 and up. This range varies based on regional salary estimates and willingness to travel. (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151081.htm)

In addition to the two-year Associate in Applied Science Degree, CCCC offers Security, Wireless Networking, Small Office / Home Office (SOHO), Voice over IP (VoIP), and Network Infrastructure certificates. The certificate programs focus on "career-centered" flexible education. Selected certificate programs are designed for two-semester completion.

CCCC networking students are active participants in the learning process. Through hands-on training and study, the students gain essential networking skills; plus, they may choose to sit for specific certification exams. Independent vendors, as well as hardware and software manufacturers have established industry-recognized "certification tests." Successful test candidates are recognized as having achieved a certain level of knowledge, thereby giving them an employment advantage over the non-certified candidate.

To support students seeking certifications, CCCC's Lee County campus has been approved as an authorized testing center. Networking students may register and take certification tests at reduced costs. Networking certification tests offered at CCCC include such exams as the CCNA, Network+, Security+, and A+.

For additional information via email: ncst@cccc.edu

What Students Learn

Students successfully completing the Networking Technology Program will be able to:

• To use technologies to provide reliable transmission and delivery of data, voice, image, and video communications in business, industrial, and educational settings.
• To assess need, diagram a home and/or small business network, and explain the features and benefits of the network.
• Classify, explain, and certify TIA/EIA 568a, TIA/EIA 568b, and crossover cables.
• Perform installations of Microsoft Windows(TM) client and server operation systems and selected software on small to medium computers and servers.
• Perform installations of Linux/Unix operation systems on small to medium computers and servers and demonstrate basic operating system services.
• Create and organize user(s) and group(s) on network operating systems including Microsoft(TM) and Linux/Unix.
• Evaluate and select the appropriate network devices, such as routers, switches and servers, document, and explain the associated benefits and issues.
• Listen to, evaluate, and assess network infrastructure solutions and designs resolving or supporting the client's need.
• Have a basic knowledge of security policies, concepts and terminology.