Network Systems Technology - Associate Degree
If you find the idea of using technology to prevent and solve digital security problems exciting and engaging, then EFSC's Network Systems Technology A.S. degree might be the perfect fit for you! This two-year Associate in Science (A.S.) degree is a great starting point for a career in the highly sought-after field of cybersecurity. You'll receive training to design, administer, maintain, and support computer network systems, both locally and over a wide area.
A major advantage of the program is the opportunity to access EFSC's Center for Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics (CCDF), which provides invaluable resources that will help you to gain expert knowledge in the field.
Throughout the program, you'll develop a strong foundation in network security techniques and skills. You'll learn about computer networking, operating systems for both clients and servers, methods for security protection and testing, and elements of forensic analysis.
Upon graduation, you'll be well-prepared to take certification exams in current networking operating systems and technologies. The program opens up opportunities for employment in entry-level positions such as system administrators, network technicians, and help desk staff. Additionally, the credits earned in this program can be applied toward a bachelor's degree at Eastern Florida, specifically the Computer Information Systems Technology BAS, which includes a Cybersecurity Specialization.
Network Systems Technology - Associate Degree
Program Overview
- Degree Type
- Associate in Science (A.S.)
- Delivery Methods
- On-Campus, Hybrid
- Locations
- Cocoa, Melbourne, Palm Bay, Titusville
- Total Credit Hours
- 60
- Academic Community
- Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics
- Contact Information
-
Email Program Advisor
321-632-1111Advising Appointments
Network Systems Technology A.S. Degree - Course Curriculum
This Associate in Science degree aims to equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to set up, secure, maintain, and fix computer networks. The curriculum includes six core courses that are common to other computer programs at EFSC, such as the Computer Programming and Analysis A.S. or the Computer Information Technology A.S.
Classes for this program are offered in two formats: on-campus, which means you attend classes in person, or hybrid, which combines both in-person and online learning. This flexibility allows you to benefit from face-to-face interactions with faculty, peers, and equipment on campus, while also giving you the option to work remotely using our virtual cyber range and online simulator tools. If you're a full-time student, you can usually complete the 10 required courses in about three semesters. Part-time students may take a bit longer to finish.
If you have a current industry certification, such as Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA) or CompTIA, and you're accepted into the program, you may be eligible to receive up to 16 college credits. This means that you can earn college credits based on your existing certification. If you have any questions or want more information about this option, it's best to reach out to the program advisor for guidance.
Network Systems Technology A.S. Degree - Admissions Information
If you're interested in pursuing the Network Systems Technology A.S. degree, you should follow EFSC's general admissions process. The good news is that this degree has ongoing admissions, which means you can apply for the program or start taking classes in any term that suits you!
If you have any questions about the application process, it's a great idea to have a conversation with one of Eastern Florida's academic advisors. They're here to help you get started on your educational journey and can provide you with guidance and answer any questions you may have.
Brief Costs and Financial Aid Eligibility
The total cost of in-state tuition for this 60 credit-hour A.S. degree program is approximately $6,240. It's important to remember that this cost doesn't include any extra fees for labs or course materials that may be required.
Financial assistance is available. You may qualify for financial aid and scholarships, including Titan Scholarships funded through the EFSC Foundation. Additionally, there are community-based external scholarships that you can explore to help cover the costs of your education.
College Courses You Would Take
As you work your way through the Network Systems Technology A.S. degree program, you'll also have the opportunity to earn as many as six College Credit Certificates (CCCs) that share the degree's courses, allowing you to demonstrate your competence in various sub-disciplines of computer network system operations.
Here are a few examples of the college courses associated with this degree program:
Familiarizes students with the logical architecture of computing devices via hands-on experience with repair, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Focuses on intrusion detection while introducing concepts like information security, threats, network attacks and hacking, risk management, and malware.
Introduces RDBMS data modeling concepts, database normalization processes, entity relationship concepts, and SQL programming.
Core communications course that builds college-level composition skills for effective communication in a variety of contexts.
Why Study Network Systems Technology at Eastern Florida?
CyBER Titans Student Club
The prestigious Cyber Titans student club offers exclusive networking opportunities and collaborations with other like-minded students and professionals in the cybersecurity field.
Being a Cyber Titan can greatly enhance your learning experience and provide you with valuable connections for future career opportunities!
Prepare for industry certifications
The program's coursework is especially beneficial for students who want to obtain valuable industry certifications, which have become increasingly important in the job market because they demonstrate that individuals possess specific knowledge and skills in technical areas. Employers are actively seeking certified professionals.
EFSC serves as an approved testing site for various specialized CompTIA, Cisco, and Microsoft certifications, which can greatly enhance your résumé, increase your earning potential, and improve your job security. To get our students ready for testing, we offer free Boot Camp courses.
Build Toward an Advanced Degree
At Eastern Florida, the Network Systems Technology A.S. is specifically designed to provide a smooth transition into the Computer Information Systems Technology Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) program, which offers five specialized tracks: Cybersecurity, Data Science, Networking Systems, Program/Software Development, and Computer Project Management.
If you plan to transfer to a bachelor's program at another institution, it's important to check their A.S. degree transfer policies, including any prerequisite and general education course requirements they may have.
Related Computer Programs
EFSC's three computer A.S. degrees share common core courses, with specialization courses based on which program you choose. As you consider the Network Systems Technology A.S. degree, explore the six College Credit Certificates related to this degree that can be used as a starting point to build toward the degree or to add skills for the workplace. Plus check out the other two A.S. degrees and the BAS option you can move on to with an A.S.