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Computer Information Systems: Networking Specialist - Associate in Applied Science (075)

(075) Associate in Applied Science

This program is designed to prepare students for employment in business, industry and government. Computer network specialists are responsible to oversee the design, administration, and security of organization network infrastructure. In addition to the training provided by the certificates for networking, networking specialist and networking professional, the degree provides a stronger background in business.

Work and Employment

Computer network specialists are employed by all sectors of the economy including the communications industry. Network professionals are employed in large and small organizations with diverse responsibilities including supervision of computer network specialists. Click here for further career information: https://www.svcc.edu/academics/programs/individual/075.html

Special Considerations

Computer network specialists must have the following skills and aptitudes: communicate well, work under pressure, show good judgment, be systematic and accurate. A clear understanding of computer technology and internetworking is important.

Program Contacts at Sauk Valley Community College
Academic Advising, 815/835-6354
Kevin Megill, Associate Professor of Computer Information Systems, 815/835-6251
Greg Noack, Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems, 815/835-6434

Follow this link for career information.

Total Hours Required - 61-62 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 33 Hours

• CIS101 - Fund of Computer Info Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of computer information systems through a comprehensive study of the development, history, growth, and application of the computer as a tool of information systems. The student will gain a functional understanding of computer hardware, systems software, storage devices, telecommunications, database theory and applications, operating systems, programming languages, software development, systems analysis and design, and management information systems. Issues of computer security, Internet, and ethics will be stressed throughout the course. The student will be provided with a balance of real-world applications and technical information of information systems. The student will participate in introductory computer laboratory exercises emphasizing word processing and electronic spreadsheet. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• BUS103 - Intro to Business ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Introduction to Business provides a foundation of knowledge in business including an understanding of the basic processes of marketing, finance, production, accounting, information technology, human resource management and the relationships of business to our society and government and the global economy. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS151 - Network Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to computer networking. Students will be introduced to a variety of networking hardware and software. Students will examine the application of networking hardware and software, and install, configure, and troubleshoot end to end networks. The course will introduce the most popular and recent technologies. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA N+ network certification. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

• CIS152 - Intro to Internetworking ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the first of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, network standards, LANs, WANs, OSI models, cabling, cabling tools, routers, router programming, star topology, IP addressing, and network standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem-solving techniques in applying science, mathematics, communication, and social studies concepts to solve networking problems. In addition, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools and equipment and all local, state, and federal safety, building, and environmental codes and regulations. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

• CIS154 - Internetworking Oper Sys ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the second of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, network standards, LANs, WANs, OSI models, Ethernet, Token Ring, Fiber Distributed Data Interface, TCP/IP Addressing Protocol, dynamic routing, and the network administrator's role and function. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem-solving techniques in applying science, mathematics, communication, and social studies concepts to solve networking problems. In addition, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools, and equipment and all local, state, and federal safety, building, and environmental codes and regulations. Prerequisite: CIS 152. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS156 - Intro to Local Area Networks ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the third of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, LAN segmentation, IPX addressing, and Fast Ethernet standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of IPX access lists, full-duplex and half-duplex Ethernet operation, and the benefits of network segmentation. In addition, emphasis will be placed on Interior Gateway Routing Protocol and Virtual Local Area Networks. Prerequisite: CIS 154. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab/week for 3 credits (75 contact hours)

• CIS158 - Intro to Wide Area Networks ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the fourth of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, WAN services, Frame Relay, and High-Level Data Link Control, Point-to-Point Protocol, and Dial-on-Demand standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of Frame Relay operation, use and operation of Integrated Services Digital networks, and the operation and function of Point-to-Point Protocols. Prerequisite: CIS 156. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab for 3 credits (75 contact hours)

• CIS167 - A+ Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to microcomputer maintenance. This course will introduce a history of personal computer evolution as well as the most popular and recent technologies. Students will examine the personal computer; laptops and portable devices; current operating systems; printing & scanning techniques; basic networking; safety; and professionalism. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA A+ Essentials and A+ Technician exams. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS194 - Windows Operating Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to Windows Operating Systems and will provide an in-depth overview of the features, functions, upgrading, and configuration of Microsoft Operating Systems. Topics will include management, networking, installing and upgrading client systems in both a stand-alone and networked environment. Additional content will cover customizing the environment, optimizing performance, managing file systems, optimizing disks, performing file and folder operations, managing devices, evaluating system performance, exploring the Windows registry, using troubleshooting tools, enhancing the computer’s security, and evaluating installation issues. This hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or 109 (may be taken concurrently), or consent of instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS197 - Security + Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to network security principles. An in-depth overview of recognizing and protecting against risks and threats to an organization's electronic data will be addressed. The course will be delivered with a variety of videos, labs, text, lecture, and demonstrations. This course prepares students for the current CompTIA's Security+ Certification Exam. Prerequisite: CIS 167 or CIS 151 or CIS 152 (may be taken as co-requisite) or approval from instructor. 3 credit hours 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS250 - Beginning Linux ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to enable students to install the Linux operating system. Students will become familiar with general Linux commands and directory structures. This course will include an introduction to Linux editors and programming. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or CIS 152 or CIS 167, (may be taken as co-requisites), or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Electives - 12 Hours

** Select a minimum of 12 hours from the list below:

• ACC101 - Financial Accounting ( 4 Semester Hours)

  This course presents accounting as an information system that produces summary financial statements, primarily for users external to a business enterprise organized as a corporation. Students study the forms of business organization and the common transactions entered into by businesses. The emphasis is on understanding and applying basic accounting principles and other concepts that guide the reporting of the effect of transactions and other economic events on the financial condition and operating results of a corporation. The procedures of how to analyze and interpret historical financial statements, as well, and the limitations of using these in making forward-looking business decisions is included. The primary content emphasis will be accounting for current assets and liabilities, long-term assets and liabilities, corporations, cash flow statements, and financial statement analyses. 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 903 Lecture/Lab Hours 4 lec/week

• ACC102 - Managerial Accounting ( 4 Semester Hours)

  This course presents accounting as a system of producing information for use in internally managing a business. The course emphasizes the identification, accumulation, and interpretation of information for planning, controlling, and evaluating the performance of the separate components of a business. Included is the identification and measurement of the costs of producing goods or services and how to analyze and control these costs. Decision models commonly used in making specific short-term and long-term business decisions also are included. Prerequisite: ACC 101 4 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): BUS 904 Lecture/Lab Hours 4 lec/week

• CIS290 - Introduction to Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to servers. Topics will include server architecture, server administration, storage, security, networking, disaster recovery, and troubleshooting server hardware and software. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 194 or CIS 214, or approval from instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS291 - Install & Configure Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers an advanced hands-on approach to Microsoft Windows Server through an in-depth look at the features, functions, configuration, deployment and administration of Windows Server. Key topics will include installation and configuration, server roles and features, Hyper-V, Active Directory, Group Policy, file and share access, print and document services, core network services, DHCP and DNS. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 290 (concurrent is okay), or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS292 - Manage & Administer Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to managing and configuring Windows Server. Content Topics will include how to configure file and print services, configure network services and access, configure a network policy server infrastructure, configure and manage Active Directory, configure and manage Group Policy. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 291 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS293 - Configure Advanced Services ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers an advanced hands-on approach to Microsoft Windows Server through an in-depth look at the features, functions, configuration, deployment and administration of Windows Server. The course will focus on advanced issues including how to configure and manage high availability, configure file and storage solutions, implement business continuity and disaster recovery, configure advanced network services, configure the Active Directory infrastructure, and configure identity and access solutions. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignment Pre-requisite: CIS 292 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

General Education Requirements - 15-16 Hours

• Communications 6 Semester hour(s)
• Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s) OR Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)
• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)
• Mathematics (MAT 106 or higher required) 3-4 Semester hour(s)

SVCC Requirement - 1 Hours

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Suggested Program

First Semester - 16 Hours

• CIS101 - Fund of Computer Info Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of computer information systems through a comprehensive study of the development, history, growth, and application of the computer as a tool of information systems. The student will gain a functional understanding of computer hardware, systems software, storage devices, telecommunications, database theory and applications, operating systems, programming languages, software development, systems analysis and design, and management information systems. Issues of computer security, Internet, and ethics will be stressed throughout the course. The student will be provided with a balance of real-world applications and technical information of information systems. The student will participate in introductory computer laboratory exercises emphasizing word processing and electronic spreadsheet. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS152 - Intro to Internetworking ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the first of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, network standards, LANs, WANs, OSI models, cabling, cabling tools, routers, router programming, star topology, IP addressing, and network standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem-solving techniques in applying science, mathematics, communication, and social studies concepts to solve networking problems. In addition, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools and equipment and all local, state, and federal safety, building, and environmental codes and regulations. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

• CIS154 - Internetworking Oper Sys ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the second of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, network standards, LANs, WANs, OSI models, Ethernet, Token Ring, Fiber Distributed Data Interface, TCP/IP Addressing Protocol, dynamic routing, and the network administrator's role and function. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem-solving techniques in applying science, mathematics, communication, and social studies concepts to solve networking problems. In addition, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools, and equipment and all local, state, and federal safety, building, and environmental codes and regulations. Prerequisite: CIS 152. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS194 - Windows Operating Systems ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to Windows Operating Systems and will provide an in-depth overview of the features, functions, upgrading, and configuration of Microsoft Operating Systems. Topics will include management, networking, installing and upgrading client systems in both a stand-alone and networked environment. Additional content will cover customizing the environment, optimizing performance, managing file systems, optimizing disks, performing file and folder operations, managing devices, evaluating system performance, exploring the Windows registry, using troubleshooting tools, enhancing the computer’s security, and evaluating installation issues. This hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or 109 (may be taken concurrently), or consent of instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

  A basic course in essay writing with emphasis on exposition, ENG 101 stresses knowledge and application of the rhetorical modes. ENG 101 presupposes competence in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Prerequisite: ACT standard score in English of 22 or above; required scores on the current English placement test, or grade of C or higher in ELA 099. Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to facilitate the self-development of the student, and introduce students to the expectations of the college community. This course reviews the academic skills that promote success during their college career. Topics will include, but not limited to, identifying campus/community resources, test-taking strategies, career exploration/decision making, problem solving, literacy, and critical thinking. Students will also learn strategies for taking personal responsibility for their academic and career choices. (Students in good standing (GPA of 2.0 or higher), who have accumulated 16 semester hours or more prior to enrolling as a degree seeking student at Sauk are not required to take this class). Semester hour(s): 1 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

• CIS156 - Intro to Local Area Networks ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the third of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, LAN segmentation, IPX addressing, and Fast Ethernet standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of IPX access lists, full-duplex and half-duplex Ethernet operation, and the benefits of network segmentation. In addition, emphasis will be placed on Interior Gateway Routing Protocol and Virtual Local Area Networks. Prerequisite: CIS 154. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab/week for 3 credits (75 contact hours)

• CIS158 - Intro to Wide Area Networks ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This is the fourth of four semester courses designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technology that will empower them to enter employment and/or further education and training in the computer-networking field. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, safety, networking, network terminology and protocols, WAN services, Frame Relay, and High-Level Data Link Control, Point-to-Point Protocol, and Dial-on-Demand standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of Frame Relay operation, use and operation of Integrated Services Digital networks, and the operation and function of Point-to-Point Protocols. Prerequisite: CIS 156. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/4 lab for 3 credits (75 contact hours)

• CIS290 - Introduction to Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to servers. Topics will include server architecture, server administration, storage, security, networking, disaster recovery, and troubleshooting server hardware and software. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 194 or CIS 214, or approval from instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS291 - Install & Configure Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers an advanced hands-on approach to Microsoft Windows Server through an in-depth look at the features, functions, configuration, deployment and administration of Windows Server. Key topics will include installation and configuration, server roles and features, Hyper-V, Active Directory, Group Policy, file and share access, print and document services, core network services, DHCP and DNS. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 290 (concurrent is okay), or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• ENG111 - Bus/Technical Communication ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Provides information on principles of written and oral communication specifically applied to business and technical fields. Assignments are designed to develop skill and practice in the use of these principles and include the writing of memoranda, business letters, instructions, informal reports and formal reports. Students are encouraged to tailor assignments to the specific careers they are pursuing. (Not applicable for humanities requirement.) Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or higher. Because of emphasis on graphics and computer formatting, students are advised to complete CIS 109 or IND 105 or to have equivalent word processing skills. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

Third Semester - 15 Hours

• Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)

• CIS151 - Network Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to computer networking. Students will be introduced to a variety of networking hardware and software. Students will examine the application of networking hardware and software, and install, configure, and troubleshoot end to end networks. The course will introduce the most popular and recent technologies. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA N+ network certification. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

• CIS167 - A+ Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to microcomputer maintenance. This course will introduce a history of personal computer evolution as well as the most popular and recent technologies. Students will examine the personal computer; laptops and portable devices; current operating systems; printing & scanning techniques; basic networking; safety; and professionalism. This course is designed to prepare the successful student for the CompTIA A+ Essentials and A+ Technician exams. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

• CIS292 - Manage & Administer Servers ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to managing and configuring Windows Server. Content Topics will include how to configure file and print services, configure network services and access, configure a network policy server infrastructure, configure and manage Active Directory, configure and manage Group Policy. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Pre-requisite: CIS 291 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS293 - Configure Advanced Services ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers an advanced hands-on approach to Microsoft Windows Server through an in-depth look at the features, functions, configuration, deployment and administration of Windows Server. The course will focus on advanced issues including how to configure and manage high availability, configure file and storage solutions, implement business continuity and disaster recovery, configure advanced network services, configure the Active Directory infrastructure, and configure identity and access solutions. This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignment Pre-requisite: CIS 292 Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

Fourth Semester - 15-16 Hours

• Mathematics (MAT 106 or higher) 3-4 Semester hour(s)
• Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s) OR Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)

• BUS103 - Intro to Business ( 3 Semester Hours)

  Introduction to Business provides a foundation of knowledge in business including an understanding of the basic processes of marketing, finance, production, accounting, information technology, human resource management and the relationships of business to our society and government and the global economy. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

• CIS197 - Security + Certification ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course offers a hands-on approach to network security principles. An in-depth overview of recognizing and protecting against risks and threats to an organization's electronic data will be addressed. The course will be delivered with a variety of videos, labs, text, lecture, and demonstrations. This course prepares students for the current CompTIA's Security+ Certification Exam. Prerequisite: CIS 167 or CIS 151 or CIS 152 (may be taken as co-requisite) or approval from instructor. 3 credit hours 2 lec/2 lab/week

• CIS250 - Beginning Linux ( 3 Semester Hours)

  This course is designed to enable students to install the Linux operating system. Students will become familiar with general Linux commands and directory structures. This course will include an introduction to Linux editors and programming. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or CIS 152 or CIS 167, (may be taken as co-requisites), or consent of instructor. Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week