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, 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, and Network Support Technician.
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 27 hours apply specifically to the Network Systems Technology/Advanced Network Infrastructure specialization:
| CET 1020C | Introduction to Networks (CISCO Academy) | 3 cr |
| CNT 1700C | Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (Cisco Academy) | 3 cr |
| CNT 2211C | Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation (Cisco Academy - ENSA) | 3 cr |
| CET 2793 | Windows Server Administration | 3 cr. |
| CNT 1401 | Principles of Information Security | 3 cr. |
| CTS 1109 | Virtualization Essentials | 3 cr. |
| CTS 2123 | Network Security and Intrusion Detection | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2393 | Network Forensics and Incident Response | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2941 | Information Technology Internship | 3 cr. |
| | or | |
| CET 2880 | Introduction to Computer Forensics | 3 cr. |
| Total Credit Hours: | 27 |
The following 27 hours apply specifically to the Network Systems Technology/Cybersecurity specialization:
| CET 1020C | Introduction to Networks (CISCO Academy) | 3 cr |
| CNT 1700C | Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (Cisco Academy) | 3 cr |
| CET 2793 | Windows Server Administration | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2352 | Ethical Hacking | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2354 | Introduction to Cyberwarfare and Cybersecurity | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2393 | Network Forensics and Incident Response | 3 cr. |
| CNT 1401 | Principles of Information Security | 3 cr. |
| COP 2040 | Programming for Cybersecurity | 3 cr. |
| CTS 2123 | Network Security and Intrusion Detection | 3 cr. |
| Total Credit Hours: | 27 |
The following program core of 15 hours applies to all IT degree programs:
| CET 1179 | Microcomputer Repair Essentials | 3 cr. |
| CIS 2520 | Project Management in IT | 3 cr. |
| CNT 1000 | Introduction to Networking | 3 cr. |
| CTS 1110 | Microcomputer Software Essentials | 3 cr. |
| COP 1000 | Introduction to Computer Programming - Python | 3 cr. |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
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