Computer & Local Area Network Tech
Associate in Applied Science Degree
Curriculum code 1416
Course Requirements

This career path prepares students for entry-level positions as a data communications specialist in the information technology profession. Students will examine the installation, maintenance, repair, and management of desktop PCs and local area networks. Students receive hands-on training in network operating systems, user administration, network security, and local-area network (LAN) switching and bridging design. The program also helps students prepare for A+, N+, CAN, MCP, and ACCNA certification. Graduates of this program possess a wide range of product knowledge as well as hands-on experience in hardware and software installation and support.

The Computer and Local Area Network Technician Program is designed for individuals just beginning training to pursue a career in microcomputer servicing and LANs, as well as those already working in industry who need to upgrade their skills for on-the-job tasks, new supervisory responsibilities or career growth.

This program is intended to lead to employment. If you are considering transferring to a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor's degree using the courses from this program, make an appointment with an academic advisor to review your options.

Nature of Work—Network administrators and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization’s local-area network (LAN), wide-area network (WAN), network segment, Internet, or intranet system. They provide day-to-day onsite administrative support for software users in a variety of work environments, including professional offices, small businesses, government, and large corporations. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure its availability to system users. These workers gather data to identify customer needs and then use the information to identify, interpret and evaluate system and network requirements.

Job Related Titles—LAN technician, Cisco service representative, technical support specialist, network or computer system administrator, computer support specialist

Employment Outlook—Employment of computer support specialists is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through 2014, as organizations continue to adopt increasingly sophisticated technology and integrate it into their systems. Job growth will continue to be driven by the ongoing expansion of the computer system design and related services industry, which is projected to remain one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. economy. Employment of systems administrators is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations as firms continue to invest heavily in securing computer networks. Companies are looking for workers who are knowledgeable about the function and administration of networks. Also, demand for computer security specialists will grow as businesses and government continue to invest heavily in cybersecurity, protecting vital computer networks and electronic infrastructures from attack. The information security field is expected to generate many opportunities over the next decade as firms across all industries place a high priority on safeguarding their data and systems.

Median annual earnings of computer support specialists were $40,430 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $30,980 and $53,010. Median annual earnings of network and computer systems administrators were $58,190 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $46,260 and $73,620. According to Robert Half International, starting salaries in 2005 ranged from $26,250 to $53,750 for help-desk and technical support staff and from $44,500 to $63,250 for more senior technical support specialists. For systems administrators, starting salaries in 2005 ranged from $47,250 to $70,500. Resource: Bureau of Labor Statistics. For job and internship listings and job search assistance, contact the Job Placement Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, (708) 974-5737, www.morainevalley.edu/jpc.