Networking Technology Certifications

CompTIA A+

The coursework is developed by the Cisco Learning Institute to educate students in the basic principles of PC upgrade, troubleshooting, and repair. If you have always wondered how computers work or wanted a job working on computers, then this is the certification to obtain. In addition, this is a great place to start your certification journey since most of the skills learned are required in the other certification tracks.

Basics:

• 1 course: CET1171C
• Focuses on the repair and/or upgrade of Personal Computers
• Preps students for careers as PC Support Specialists
• 2 certification exams: 220-301 and 220-302
• Estimated cost for certification: $600 (books, tuition, fees, exam)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The coursework is developed by the Cisco Learning Institute to educate students in the basic principles of networking, develop their design and configuration skills, and prepare them for careers in the IT field. The four courses MUST be taken in sequence. CET1600C and 1610C are also offered in a Blended Distance Learning format where most course-work is completed independently and hands-on labs are accomplished on scheduled Saturday meetings.

Basics:

• 4 courses: CET1600C, 1610C, 2615C, & 2620C
• Focuses on the ‘hardware’ end of networking – design and construction of data networks
• Preps students for careers as Network Engineers or Designers
• 1 certification exam: 640-801
• Estimated cost for certification: $1000 (books, tuition, fees, exam)

CompTIA Network+

This is an optional certification for students who have successfully completed the CCNA program of study. This certification covers the same general principles of networking but in a vendor-neutral format.

Basics:

• CCNA courses prep for this certification also
• 1 certification exam: N10-002
• Estimated cost for certification: $200 (exam)

CompTIA HTI+

This is one of the newest certifications aimed at students seeking jobs in the residential construction industry. Coursework developed by the Cisco Learning Institute to educate students in the basic principles of the sub-contracting areas listed below, and give them the skills necessary to integrate these sub-networks into a home equipped to handle the technology of the 21st century.

Basics:

• 1 course: to be announced – contact instructor John Sirmon at (850) 973-9495 for more information.
• Focuses on the construction of integrated networks in homes – telecomm, data, video, audio, security, surveillance, HVAC, and other residential systems
• Preps students for careers as Home Technology Integration Installers
• 2 certification exams: HT0-101 & HT0-102
• Estimated cost for certification: $750 (books, tuition, fees, exams)

Related Programs of Study

Students also have the option of seeking degrees to complement their IT certifications:

1. Associate in Arts with concentration of electives in 
    Networking Technology courses

• Recommended for students transferring to 4-year university with unknown major

PROGRAM INSTRUCTOR:

John Sirmon
Office - Technology Center (Bldg. 5)
Telephone: (850) 973-9495
Email: sirmonj@nfcc.edu

Programs of Study