Stay on Pace: Information Technology
The Information Technology (IT) industry has transformed the structure and operation of nearly every industry, product, and service.
Whether IT is the primary function of a local computer repair business, supports the e-commerce systems that processes billions of dollars in online purchasing, or secures the network infrastructure and data of a governmental and private entities, this area of the job sector will continually require skilled and knowledgeable professionals.
Our world needs the IT experts who know how to troubleshoot security systems, write code, and manage complex networks. [Your Community College’s (YCC)] IT programs meet this ongoing employment demand.
[Your Community College] has developed a degree program that provides the skills needed to be successful in any IT career, including the growing cybersecurity field. The course offerings prepare students for various industry certifications while also providing stackable credentials and a pathway to continue their education.
The Cybersecurity Focus
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports cybersecurity occupations will grow faster than average between 2016 and 2026. For example, the BLS estimates Information Security Analyst positions are expected to grow as much as 28% by 2026. This growth is expected to add about 28,500 jobs.
[YCC’s] Information Technology – Network Management degree program not only focuses on managing networks, but securing those networks as well. This program examines cybercrime, security concepts, and security administration. The skills provided in this degree path will prepare students for the expected job growth in cybersecurity.
Industry Certifications
The progression of individuals through the Information Technology – Network Management degree will prepare students for industry certifications. Some certifications will be given at the end of courses.
Microsoft Technology Associate – These certifications demonstrate a student’s basic knowledge of the following areas and are given at the end of related courses:
- Networking Fundamentals
- Windows Operating Systems
- Security Fundamentals
- Server Administration
CompTIA – These industry certifications are recognized as standard certifications in the IT field. Upon completion of the degree program or related course, students can sit for Security+ and A+ certifications.
Cisco – Cisco certifications help launch a career in networking. Once a student completes the four Cisco courses in the program, they will be prepared to take the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) exam and the Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching exam.
Stackable Credentials
As students work their way through the Information Technology – Network Management degree program, they will earn certificates. These certificates demonstrate to current and future employers the skills and knowledge
they possess.
Information Technology Certificate – demonstrates understanding of Information Technology. Holders of this certificate would be able to provide basic troubleshooting for residential and small business computers.
Cybersecurity Certificate – exposes students to current technologies used to secure data and networks. Students will study network and security architecture as well as security administration. Holders of this certificate may enter the workforce in an entry level security position while recipients currently in the workforce may advance to first level security careers.
Cisco Network Academy Certificate – provides individuals with understanding of network management. Holders of this certificate are able to provide network management in small businesses and larger organizations.
Continuing Your IT Education
Students who wish to continue on to a university after completing the Associate degree at [YCC] can do so through East Carolina University (ECU). Most students who continue on this path do so while they work in the IT field, thanks to ECU’s online options. Individuals can transfer up to 60 semester hours to ECU for completion of a bachelor’s degree. This essentially means that a successful graduate of [YCC] can go to ECU for 2 more years (online or on campus) and complete a bachelor’s degree which can open even more doors. This is by far one of the most cost effective ways to pursue a Bachelor degree in Information Technology.
As long as computers continue to dominate nearly every industry in the world, companies will always need highly trained IT professionals to keep operations running smoothly. Robeson Community College is doing our part to train future professionals.
For more information on our program, visit [ycc.edu/information-technology]