Is a Computer Networking Certificate Worth It?

By DeVry University

May 13, 2023

The information presented here is true and accurate as of the date of publication. DeVry’s programmatic offerings and their accreditations are subject to change. Please refer to the current academic catalog for details.
 

8 min read

This is a common question to ask yourself before enrolling in a program related to computer networking. For many people, a computer networking certificate can be worth the investment if your goal is to work toward a career in tech. An undergraduate certificate earned in computer networking can help you build essential skills that can prepare you to pursue new job opportunities. Best of all, these certificate programs may count towards an associate or bachelor's degree in the same subject area should you choose to continue your education in the future.

If you've been considering a career in computer networking but haven't decided where to begin, an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry University might be the perfect place to get started. Learn about this field and the potential plusses of earning a certificate in computer networking as we help you answer the following questions:
 

Networking involves developing and maintaining these connections in a way that facilitates both security and functionality. To do this, computer networking systems use a variety of different tools. In fact, chances are that you've already performed a basic version of computer networking. If you've ever set up a Wi-Fi network in your home or even connected several gaming consoles together for a local area network (LAN) party, you've completed a form of computer networking. When learning the basics, it may be helpful to think of professional computer networking as a more complex version of these simple networks.

An undergraduate certificate in computer networking can offer you different opportunities to pursue if you wish to have a career in the technology field. In fact, there are several different jobs that you may be prepared to pursue once you have an undergraduate certificate like DeVry’s Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials. You may also consider furthering your education at DeVry by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology and Networking to increase the range of positions for which you may be prepared to pursue.

A certificate in computer networking is an undergraduate-level credential that can help you get started within the field of networking and technology. This certificate can take less time to earn than a bachelor's degree depending on your program and schedule and can help people gain necessary skills to help pursue a career in technology.

Earning an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry can be done on your time to fit your lifestyle. This is one way to earn a credential that allows you to enter the workforce in this field so you can pursue experience within the industry. Then, you can continue on to an associate or bachelor's degree program in the future if you so choose to work toward acquiring more specialized skills and experience.

Keep in mind that some of these positions may require additional credentials on top of an undergraduate certificate. It's also worth remembering that the qualifications for similar job titles may vary from industry to industry, or even from company to company.

Yes! Certifications are awarded by professional organizations to confirm that a person has achieved a certain level of competence with a specialized tool or skillset.

A certificate is an academic credential that is given to a person after they complete an educational program at an institution of higher learning such as DeVry University.

In some instances, a certificate can help you prepare for certification exams in the same field. For instance, an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry can also help you develop the skills needed to prepare to pursue the CompTIA Network+ certification exam, among others.

At DeVry, we award certificates to those who have graduated from an undergraduate certificate program. While we do not offer certifications, we may offer reimbursements of up to $300¹ toward the cost of one certification exam attempt for qualified students.

¹Eligible programs include Bachelor in Computer Information Systems and specializations within this program including: Cyber Security Programming, Computer Forensics, Software Programming, Information Systems Security, Web Development and Administration, Database Management and Web Game Programming Specialization. Associate in Engineering Technology and Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology. Associate in Information Technology and Networking and specializations within this program including: Automation and Electronic Systems and Network Systems Administration. Associate in Information Technology and Networking with specialization in Information Systems & Programming. Bachelor’s in Information Technology and Networking and specializations within this program including: Cyber Security, Cloud Based Networking and Virtualization and Mobile and Networked Devices. Bachelor’s in Software Development and specializations within this program including: Software Design and Programming, Web and Mobile Application Development and Big Data and Analytics. Associate in Cybersecurity and Networking. Bachelor's in Cybersecurity and Networking. Speak to your Student Support Advisor for additional information.
²At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied. Future programmatic changes could impact the application of credits to a future program. Refer to the academic catalog for details.