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Computer Information Systems: Networking Specialist

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Academic Programs

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

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.

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.

Follow this link for career information.

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

Total Hours Required - 61-62 Hours

Major Field Requirements - 36 Hours

  • 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • 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. 3 Semester hour(s) 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

  • CIS152 - Introduction to Networks (ITN) ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the first of three 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 LANs, OSI model, cabling, cabling tools, switching, routing, IP addressing, and network standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or approval of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

  • CIS154 - Switching/Routing/Wireless Ess ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the second of three 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 Switching Concepts, VLANs, STP, DHCP, LAN and WLAN Concepts, Routing and Troubleshooting Networks. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 152 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS156 - Enterprise Netw/Sec/Automation ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the third of three 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 Single-Area OSPFv2 Concepts and Configuration, ACL Concepts, NAT, WAN Concepts, VPN, IPSec, Network Design, Network Troubleshooting, Network Virtualization, and Network Automation. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 154 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week for 3 credits

  • 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

  • CIS186 - Intro to Virtualization ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This introduction to Virtualization course will prepare students with the skills required to evaluate and implement standard virtualization technologies. Students will explore creating a virtual machine, its benefits, and be able to describe types of virtualization used for data centers. Additionally, students will be able to describe virtualization, virtual machines, hypervisors, and various standard virtualization platform components and describe the concepts of server, network, storage, and desktop virtualization. Students will understand how individuals and businesses benefit from virtualization. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS194 - Managing Modern Windows Device ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to teach you the foundation knowledge to accomplish the following technical tasks: deploy Windows; manage devices and data; configure connectivity; and maintain Windows. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 167 or instructor consent 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 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. 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 Semester hour(s) 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS250 - Beginning Linux ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course will provide a comprehensive look at common tasks performed by Linux system administrators. This includes installation, management of Linux systems from the command line and the GUI, user administration, file permissions, customization, software configuration, management of Linux-based clients, troubleshooting, and more. Expanded coverage of networking and security are covered. This course covers all the objectives, and will prepare the student for the current CompTIA's Linux+ Certification Exam. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or CIS 152 or CIS 167, (may be taken as co-requisites), or consent of instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • CIS257 - Cyber Security Analysis ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides the knowledge and skill required to configure and use threat detection tools, perform data analysis and interpret the results to identify vulnerabilities, threats and risks to an organization, with the end goal of securing and protecting applications and systems within an organization. This course is aligned with the CompTIA CySA+ certification and prepares the student for the CompTIA CySA+ exam. Prerequisite: CIS 151 and CIS 197 (CIS 197 can be taken concurrently) Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab hours:2 lec/2 lab/week

Electives - 6 Hours

CIS 231 and CIS 235 are strongly recommended

  • 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

  • CIS187 - Intro to Cloud Computing ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This introduction to Cloud Computing course will prepare students with the skills required to evaluate and implement standard cloud technologies. Students will implement, maintain, and deliver cloud technologies including network, storage, and virtualization technologies to create cloud solutions. This course will also teach students to manage workload migrations, manage cloud vendors to control costs, use automation and orchestration to bring business value from cloud solutions, and ensure security of cloud implementations using cybersecurity best practices. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 (may be taken concurrently) Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS231 - Occupational Seminar I ( 1 Semester Hours)

    A seminar designed to complement the student's initial placement in an approved working situation. Prerequisite: Completion of 12 hours in major field courses. Concurrent enrollment in CIS 235. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

  • CIS235 - Occupational Internship I ( 3 Semester Hours)

    An occupational experience utilizing on-the-job training. All students are required to spend a minimum of 15 hours each week on the job. Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in CIS 231. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 15 lab/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. Prerequisite: CIS 194 or CIS 214, or approval from instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS291 - Intro to Windows Server Admin ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is intended to provide an introduction to the Microsoft Server operating system. Topics will include how to install, configure, monitor and maintain Microsoft Servers. Additional topics will focus on how to deploy and configure Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) in a distributed environment, how to implement Group Policy, how to perform backup and restore, and how to monitor and troubleshoot Active Directory-related issues with Windows Server 2016. Additionally, this course teaches students how to deploy other Active Directory server roles, such as Active Directory Federation Services (AD FS) and Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS). This accelerated, hybrid course will combine lectures, labs, videos, simulations, and group and individual assignments. Prerequisite: CIS 290 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

General Education Requirements - 18-19 Hours

  • Communications 6 Semester hour(s) - (ENG 101 and ENG 111 required)
  • Humanities/Fine Arts 3 Semester hour(s)
  • Social/Behavioral Sciences 3 Semester hour(s)
  • Physical/Life Sciences 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)

    The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Suggested Program

First Semester - 16 Hours

  • 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • 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. 3 Semester hour(s) 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. 3 Semester hour(s) 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec, 2 lab/week

  • ENG101 - Composition I ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course (1) develops awareness of the writing process; (2) provides inventional, organizational, and editorial strategies; (3) stresses the variety of uses for writing; and (4) emphasizes critical skills in reading, thinking, and writing. Prerequisite: Required placement score on approved English placement test, high school unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher, or a grade of C or higher in ELA 099. 3 Semester hour(s) Illinois Articulation Initiative (IAI): C1 900 Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • FYE101 - First Year Experience ( 1 Semester Hours)

    The focus of this course is how to be successful in college. Study skills, goal setting, academic planning, time and money management, and information research skills are among the core topics included in this course. Within a supportive environment, students will share their college experiences and develop connections with fellow students and SVCC staff. 1 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 1 lec/week

Second Semester - 15 Hours

  • Physical/Life Science 3 Semester hour(s)
  • Social/Behavioral Science 3 Semester hour(s)
  • CIS186 - Intro to Virtualization ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This introduction to Virtualization course will prepare students with the skills required to evaluate and implement standard virtualization technologies. Students will explore creating a virtual machine, its benefits, and be able to describe types of virtualization used for data centers. Additionally, students will be able to describe virtualization, virtual machines, hypervisors, and various standard virtualization platform components and describe the concepts of server, network, storage, and desktop virtualization. Students will understand how individuals and businesses benefit from virtualization. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 109 or consent of instructor Semester hour(s): 3 Lecture/Lab hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

  • CIS194 - Managing Modern Windows Device ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course is designed to teach you the foundation knowledge to accomplish the following technical tasks: deploy Windows; manage devices and data; configure connectivity; and maintain Windows. Prerequisite: CIS 101 or CIS 167 or instructor consent 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 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. 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 Semester hour(s) 2 lec/2 lab/week

Third Semester - 15-16 Hours

  • Mathematics (MAT 106 or higher) 3-4 Semester hour(s)
  • Electives - 3 Semester hour(s) (see elective options)
  • Humanities/Fine Arts - 3 Semester hour(s)
  • CIS152 - Introduction to Networks (ITN) ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the first of three 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 LANs, OSI model, cabling, cabling tools, switching, routing, IP addressing, and network standards. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or approval of instructor 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab

  • CIS154 - Switching/Routing/Wireless Ess ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the second of three 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 Switching Concepts, VLANs, STP, DHCP, LAN and WLAN Concepts, Routing and Troubleshooting Networks. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 152 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week

Fourth Semester - 15 Hours

  • Electives - 3 Semester hour(s) - (see elective options)
  • CIS156 - Enterprise Netw/Sec/Automation ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This is the third of three 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 Single-Area OSPFv2 Concepts and Configuration, ACL Concepts, NAT, WAN Concepts, VPN, IPSec, Network Design, Network Troubleshooting, Network Virtualization, and Network Automation. Particular emphasis is given to the use of decision-making and problem solving techniques to solve networking problems. Prerequisite: CIS 154 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 2 lec/2 lab/week for 3 credits

  • CIS250 - Beginning Linux ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course will provide a comprehensive look at common tasks performed by Linux system administrators. This includes installation, management of Linux systems from the command line and the GUI, user administration, file permissions, customization, software configuration, management of Linux-based clients, troubleshooting, and more. Expanded coverage of networking and security are covered. This course covers all the objectives, and will prepare the student for the current CompTIA's Linux+ Certification Exam. Prerequisite: CIS 151 or CIS 152 or CIS 167, (may be taken as co-requisites), or consent of instructor. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week

  • CIS257 - Cyber Security Analysis ( 3 Semester Hours)

    This course provides the knowledge and skill required to configure and use threat detection tools, perform data analysis and interpret the results to identify vulnerabilities, threats and risks to an organization, with the end goal of securing and protecting applications and systems within an organization. This course is aligned with the CompTIA CySA+ certification and prepares the student for the CompTIA CySA+ exam. Prerequisite: CIS 151 and CIS 197 (CIS 197 can be taken concurrently) 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. 3 Semester hour(s) Lecture/Lab Hours: 3 lec/week