Computer Information Systems - Network Administration, A.A.A.S.

Suggested GRCC Program:

Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences or Associate in Arts

The Computer Information Systems program provides students with the courses needed to seek employment as local area network administrators and providers of some types of technical support; the program also prepares students for transfer into four-year baccalaureate degree programs in computer programming, leading to careers in programming, systems analysis (and development), consulting, and management in computer information systems.

The employment outlook for careers in this growing, dynamic, technologically rich field is likely to remain strong. Students seeking work immediately upon graduation from GRCC should expect to find employment in smaller organizations or in supporting roles of larger organizations. Students expecting long-term employment in programming and beyond should plan on a minimum of a four-year degree, with career opportunities thereafter dependent on job performance and perhaps additional education.

Students following a Computer Information Systems program may qualify for either the Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences degree or the Associate in Arts degree, which most transfer institutions require. Those who wish to earn the Associate in Arts should be sure to meet the communications, humanities, social science, and natural science requirements for that degree.

Strict adherence to the ethics of computer usage is expected of all Computer Applications students.

The following courses may be taken in any order and at any time they are available as long as prerequisites are met. However, students are expected to confer with their faculty advisor and to base choices on both their own goals and the strength of their previous work experience. A minimum of 62 academic credits is needed for graduation.

Network Adminitration

(Code 147)

This degree provides students with the courses needed to seek employment in the following areas: local area network (LAN) support, network administrator, telecommunications analyst. The student may seek an Associate in Arts (AA) or an Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences (AAAS).

The AA degree is a transfer degree, requiring English classes taken from the English Department (EN) rather than from the Business Department (BA). GRCC participates in a Three Plus One baccalaureate program with some universities. Under this program, students take their first three years at GRCC and the fourth year at the participating university.

Students with advanced degrees may be employed as network engineers or systems/applications security managers.

Transfer Opportunities:

The Transfer Guide for many bachelor’s degree majors offered at Michigan colleges and universities is available at the Counseling and Career Center and online at www.grcc.edu.