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Associate Degrees

Prepare to Pursue a Career in IT – Learn Networking Essentials

Online Undergraduate Certificate Program in Networking Essentials

At DeVry University, our goal is to meet you where you are – whether you are already a part of the workforce or are a prospective student looking to drive tomorrow’s workplace. If your future goals are in the networking field, we can help you build your understanding of the tools and technologies that qualified computer networking professionals must know.

Our 100% online computer Networking Essentials Certificate program can help get you started. This program can teach you how organizations and businesses are networked to exchange secure information in wireless and hardwire formats. You’ll also gain hands-on experience with Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and projects.

Elements of our curriculum will also help you prepare to pursue industry certifications like:

  • CompTIA Linux+:

    An industry certification that proves your proficiency with the Linux operating system. It is especially useful for those who want to work with devices or operating systems.

  • CompTIA Network+:

    A certification that verifies your capability to understand and interact with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things and cloud computing.

  • CompTIA Cloud Essentials+:

    A certification that proves you are capable of working with cloud technologies. People with this credential can set up, maintain and manage cloud-computing systems. It's recommended to pursue this certification as cloud technology becomes more prevalent.

  • CCNA:

    The Cisco Certified Network Associate is awarded by Cisco Systems to those who are capable of troubleshooting small to medium enterprise networks. It also touches on network access, security fundamentals, IP services, programming and automation.
     

Tech Essentials Grant for Computer Networking Certificate Students

This program is eligible for a Technical Essential Grant, which is available to qualifying new and readmitted undergraduate students.1 This grant offers $2,400 toward the cost of your networking essentials certificate program upon successful completion of the program.

Please refer to the catalog for complete admissions requirements.

Classes Start Every 8 Weeks
Request Info
Minimum Completion Time*
12 months
OR
Normal Completion Time**
1 year
4 months

ACCELERATE ON YOUR SCHEDULE

Choose the schedule that best fits your goals and commitments. You can earn your Undergraduate Certificate in as few as 12 months.*

Or, follow a normal schedule and complete your program in 1 year, 4 months.**

*Minimum completion time does not include breaks and assumes 3 semesters of year-round, full-time enrollment in 6-10 credit hours a semester per 12 month period.
 

**Normal completion time does not include breaks and assumes 2 semesters of enrollment in 6-10 credit hours per semester per 12 month period.

  • 01 Knowledge & Skills
  • 02 Stackable Programs
  • 03 Career
  • 04 Program Courses
  • 05 FAQs
  • 06 Catalog Download
Knowledge & Skills

Online Networking Essentials Certificate Program – What You Can Learn

This program will help you develop the essential skills needed to find your place in the broad field of wireless and hardwired networking. To facilitate your development, DeVry’s Networking Essentials Certificate program covers the following topics:

Networking

Gain working knowledge of the underlying technology of local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and the internet. Explore concepts related to networking media, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP), routing and switching, and small network configuration and troubleshooting.

Problem-Solving

Apply critical and analytical thinking to identify problems, evaluate options and implement solutions. Learn new ways to approach complex problems and present coherent solutions to a group.

Data Analysis

Learn to draw conclusions by finding patterns and relationships in numerical data with pertinent tools. Develop your ability to present findings through both presentations and written formats.

Digital Devices and Digital Literacy

Explore digital concepts, devices and connectivity within the realm of the IoT. Topics include networking, securing and deploying digital devices and applying appropriate technologies.

Networking Essentials Certificate Program Admissions Requirements

Students must place in MATH062 and BUSN062 or above. To begin program coursework, you must first complete transitional studies courses, if applicable.2 Please see the catalog for complete admissions requirements.

Networking Essentials Certificate Program and Financial Aid and Grants

We can help make pursuing your Undergraduate Networking Essentials Certificate more affordable for eligible students.1 For example, during the 2022–2023 award year, DeVry University has assisted students by awarding more than $71 million in student financial assistance3 through Partner Tuition Savings, Institutional Scholarships and University Grants.

Explore Financial Aid Opportunities

3Data is inclusive of all partner tuition savings, institutional scholarships and grants for the period for July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.

Stackable Programs

Build Skills with Stackable Degrees

Earn a Credential at Every Step

You don’t have to wait four years to show a credential on your resume. At DeVry, several programs are designed to stack.

 

  • Start by earning a credential on a flexible schedule to fit your lifestyle

  • Convenient online or hybrid classes build your professional skills right away4

  • Qualifying courses count toward the next related degree5

     

How Do Credentials Stack?

Here’s an example: When you earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials, every course you complete in the program applies to an Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking with a Specialization in Network Systems Administration or any specialization of a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and Networking.6

Find Out More
Bachelor's
+60
Credit hours remaining
120
Credit Hours*
Associate
+37
Credit hours remaining
60
Credit Hours*
Certificate
23
Credit Hours*

 

*The figures displayed represent the minimum credit hours required for graduation. Additional coursework may be necessary to complete program requirements.

Career

Job Opportunities in the Computer Networking Field

From industry-relevant insights to professional development services designed with your career goals in mind, our Networking Essentials Certificate program can help you pursue your goals. Graduates of our online Networking Essentials Undergraduate Certificate program may consider entry-level opportunities in positions such as:

  • Computer Network Support Specialist

    Also called technical support specialists, they analyze, troubleshoot and evaluate computer network problems. Often, network support specialists combine technology skills with communication skills in order to better convey concepts to customers. In special cases, a network support specialist will remotely take over a computer in order to troubleshoot complex issues.

  • Local Area Network Administrator

    A LAN administrator spends most of their time upgrading computers and helping the system administrator coordinate software updates. They ensure an organization’s technology is up to date to help prevent breaches in security. Additionally, LAN administrators perform basic upkeep on the local area network of their organization using a server.

  • Network Technician

    Network technicians are responsible for supporting end users of data communications networks. They do this by installing, troubleshooting and maintaining computer hardware. Technicians also manage software and data communications equipment to ensure that it is all functional and up to date.

  • Network System Administrator

    A network system administrator designs, deploys and administers wireless and wired infrastructure and supporting network systems. They are responsible for keeping systems within a company functioning and also play a vital role in keeping those systems secure.


Employers may require years of relevant experience or additional certifications.

 

Program Courses

Networking Essentials Courses

Mathematics
MATH114
Algebra for College Students
Tech Core
CEIS101C
Introduction to Technology and Information Systems
CEIS106
Introduction to Operating Systems
NETW191
Introduction to Information Technology & Networking

NETW212
Introduction to Cloud Computing
Network Systems Administration
NETW260
Intermediate Information Technology and Networking I
NETW270
Intermediate Information Technology and Networking II
Career Preparation
CEIS297
Technology Career Foundations

Computer Networking FAQs

What is computer networking?

Computer networking is the act of setting up, maintaining and troubleshooting connected devices. In the past, computer networking almost exclusively referred to computers that were connected to one another. But as technology has improved, the definition now encompasses phones, laptops, servers, tablets and even smart devices.

How is computer networking used?

Computer networking is used to support applications and services, but a computer network can be set up in a way that supports numerous functions. Common uses for a computer network include running servers, accessing the internet, creating and sharing video and audio files, and running email functions.

Is the job market for computer networking growing?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for network and computer systems administrators is growing, on a national level, at the average rate of 2%, which may lead to more than 19,800 new jobs in the field between 2022 and 2032.7 It's also worth noting that the skills needed to be a successful computer networking professional may lend themselves to other industries including cyber security. 

7Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level.

What is a computer networking certificate?

At DeVry, our Certificate in Networking Essentials is an undergraduate-level credential that can help prepare you to pursue a tech career in a broad range of industries. Earning your certificate is one way that you can add a credential to your resume while demonstrating to employers that you have developed core skills and knowledge in the networking field.

What can I do with a certificate in computer networking?

Our Certificate Program in Networking Essentials can help prepare you to pursue entry-level networking jobs and industry certifications, whether you are just getting started in the industry or looking to advance in your current role. Better yet, when you earn your online networking certificate at DeVry, you may be able to apply your qualifying credits toward an Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking with a specialization in Network Systems Administration or a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and Networking should you choose to continue your education.6

How do I get a computer networking certificate?

To earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials at DeVry, you will complete eight courses that total a minimum of 23 credit hours. This includes classes like Introduction to Technology and Information Systems and Introduction to Operating Systems.

What type of job can I pursue with a computer networking certificate?

Graduates of DeVry’s Networking Essentials Undergraduate Certificate program may consider, but are not limited to, the following careers:

  • Network System Administrator

  • Computer Network Support Specialist

  • Local Area Network Administrator

  • Network Technician

What are the benefits of computer networking?

Businesses need computer networking to grow, share resources, increase flexibility, cut costs and more. There are essentially no limits to problem solving and creativity thanks to the multitude of uses for computer networking and programming. Understanding network essentials, operating systems and cloud computing can help you pursue a wide variety of roles in various industries.

Academic Catalog
2023-2024 Academic Catalog
View Academic Catalog
Program Guides
Program Overview
View Program Guides

1Students may participate in only one DeVry University-based scholarship, grant or group tuition benefit program at a time. Those who qualify for more than one program will be presumed to accept the program with the highest reduction in by- session cost. Students who qualify for and prefer a different tuition benefit program must confirm, in writing, the alternate program in which they wish to participate prior to starting classes at DeVry. Scholarship and grant terms and eligibility conditions are subject to change. Scholarships are available to those who apply and qualify. Click here for more information.

2Transitional studies coursework may affect program length and cost.

3Data is inclusive of all partner tuition savings, institutional scholarships and grants for the period for July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.

4Program, course, and extended classroom availability vary by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.

5The figures displayed represent the minimum credit hours required for graduation. Additional coursework may be necessary to complete program requirements. At 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. 

6At 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.

7https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm. Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates  and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level.

 

 

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