Computer Systems Networking

Computer Systems Networking is a growing field that will only get bigger as businesses embrace and rely on remote communications and wireless technology. A Computer Systems Networking degree from HCC is a great way to get started in the Networking field.

The Computer Systems Networking program has three tracks to give students the specific knowledge and skills needed for today’s job market:

• Network and Computer Systems Administration (MCITP)
• Network Systems and Cyber Security
• Network Systems and Unified Communication (cisco)
• Linux Server Administrator

In addition, Computer Systems Networking offers the PC Support certificate and AAS degree, the UNIX/Linux AAS degree and the UNIX/Linux certificate.

TSI testing is required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

Outcomes:

Computer Systems Networking Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

1. Personal Computers - Install, configure, upgrade, and troubleshoot personal Computer operating systems.
2. Networking - Install, configure and troubleshoot networking hardware, protocols and services.
3. Microsoft Windows Server - Manage and Maintain a Microsoft Windows Server 2019/Linux Distro Environment/Network Infrastructure.
4. Cybersecurity - Demonstrate knowledge in General Security Concepts, Communication Security, Infrastructure Security, and Unified Communications.

Students will be able to:

The goal of the Computer Systems Networking and Cyber Security program is to train and educate students in the various technical areas associated with Computer Network Operations that encompasses Computer Network Defense, Computer Network Exploitation, and Computer Network Attacks.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

Outcomes:

Computer Systems Networking - Cybersecurity Specialization Outcomes

1. Implement a secure network architecture design using segmentation in Computer Network Operations.
2. Use the correct cybersecurity tools; cryptography, firewalls, segmentation, etc., to provide Computer Network Defense.
3. Examine Computer Network Exploitation methods and identify common network vulnerabilities.
4. Understand DNS poisoning, ARP poisoning, Man-in-the-middle, Social Engineering and other common Computer Network Attacks.

The AAS in Network Systems and Unified Communication encompasses several communication systems or models including the handling of voice, fax, and regular text messages as objects in a single mailbox that a user can access either with a regular e-mail client or by telephone collaboration, and interaction systems; real-time and near real-time communications; and transactional applications.

TSI testing required prior to first enrollment for all AAS degrees and Level II certificates.

There are 13,356 Computer Systems Analysts employed in the Greater Houston Area. This number is expected to increase by 10.6% over the next four years.

• The estimated annual job openings is 638 jobs a year.
• Median Wages - $44.17 hourly, $92,000 annually

Hybrid programs allow students to take a mix of online and face-to-face courses. Hybrid programs offer 50% to 85% of their courses online and the remainder of the curriculum is taken in-person on one of HCC’s campuses. Please contact your advisor for more information about specific program requirements.

Language Option Restrictions

Some hybrid programs require students to participate in foreign language courses as part of the program’s required curriculum. Please contact your advisor for more information about specific program requirements and available language options. If you would like to take courses in a language that is not offered online, you would have to do so on campus.

Elective Course Restrictions

Some hybrid programs may have a limited number of elective options available, based on which of the designated electives are currently offered online.  Please contact your advisor for more information about specific program requirements.

Required Course Restrictions

Hybrid programs require students to participate in campus-based courses as part of a given program’s required curriculum. Please contact your advisor for more information about specific program requirements. 

Potential Course Restrictions

Some online courses may have face-to-face requirements for exams, laboratory sessions, and other activities. Please review your course syllabus to determine if your online course has an on-campus laboratory or examination requirement.