Networking Systems
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Build, upgrade, and maintain computer systems to ensure users are connected and productive
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Design, install, and troubleshoot complex network systems
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Work in a professional network administration environment and configure cybersecurity systems that protect technology users
Recommended Course Sequence
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| Principles of Information Technology | Computer Maintenance | Networking | Practicum in Information Technology or Independent Study in Technology Applications |
Course Descriptions
Principles of Information Technology
In this course, students will develop computer literacy skills, enhance reading, writing, communication and reasoning skills and apply them to the information technology environment using TestOut Curriculum. Students demonstrate knowledge of both software & hardware systems within IT and gain employability and professional skills. Coursework includes word processing, spreadsheets, programming languages, databases, presentations, web design and portfolio development. Students will investigate the legal and ethical practices as they relate to IT. Certifications will be earned in Fundamentals Pro, Microsoft Word, and PowerPoint. Students may prepare for the CompTIA Fundamentals exam.
Computer Maintenance
Students will apply technical skills to address the IT industry and emerging technologies using TestOut Curriculum. The course will include knowledge of computer maintenance, hardware design & operation, operating systems, installation of software, evaluation of software applications and configuration of network systems. Students will work through IT maintenance simulations to troubleshoot computer software and hardware problems to diagnose issues. Course work will include certifications in PC Pro and Microsoft Excel. Students may prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam.
Networking
Students will develop knowledge and skills related to data networking technologies and practices to apply them in personal or career development using TestOut Curriculum. Course studies will include professional skills such as communication and problem solving as well as working with a customer. Students will be able to analyze telecommunications and data network services to address industry needs. Course work will include creating a network design plan with appropriate documentation and a preventative maintenance plan. Certifications will be earned in Network Pro and Microsoft Word Expert. Students may prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam.
Practicum in Information Technology
Professional skills, like critical thinking and problem solving, combined with IT experience and knowledge will be a key part of this course. The course could include an on-campus internship, off-campus internship or mentorship with an industry professional. Students will work with their mentor to identify a problem in the IT field, conduct research, create a solution, develop a strategy to address the problem, then design a product or service that solves the problem. A project portfolio will be presented to a panel of professionals using formal presentation skills. Students will also continue to develop a professional portfolio showcasing their accomplishments, knowledge and skills, certifications and artifacts. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Excel Expert and a CompTIA certification. Students will work with their teacher, mentor and coordinator to plan their year.
Independent Study in Technology Application
In Independent Study in Technology Applications, students will work in a simulated work environment in the field of IT to complete large scale projects designed by the teacher and mentor. Students will identify a problem in IT and work to research, create solutions and design a product or service that solves the problem. The final presentation will include a project portfolio presented to a panel of professionals using formal presentation skills. Certifications will be earned in Microsoft Excel Expert and a CompTIA certification. Students will work with their teacher, mentor and coordinator to plan their year.
Career Tree
Careers Listed in Career Tree
Entry-Level Careers
(with Program Completion)
- Network Cable Installer
- Helpdesk Technician
- Network Equipment Salesperson
- Data Collector
- Video System Installer
- Technology Sales Associate
- User Support Specialist
- Network Rack Installer
- Software Installer
- Computer Operator
- Data Entry
- Web Developer Intern
Technical Careers
(Apprenticeship, Associate’s Degree, Advanced Certification, Experience, etc.)
- Robotics Technician
- Audio and Video Equipment Technician
- Network Troubleshooter
- Assistant Network Administrator
- Systems Coordinator
- Biomedical Electronics Technician
- Game Designer
- Technical Support Specialist
- Cloud Architect
- Computer Electronics Technician
- JAVA Developer
- Data Center Technician
Professional Careers
(Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., Specialized Training, Experience, etc.)
- Computer Hardware Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Geographic Information Systems Technician
- Cartographer
- Computer Forensics
- Computer Information Systems Manager
- Robotics Engineer
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Chief Information Security Officer
- Digital Risk Officer
- Photonics Engineer
- IT Project Manager