Thursday, March 13, 2014

Prerequisites for Building a Career in Computer and Communication Networking


Businesses today rely on computer and communication networks. As communication systems continue to grow complex and computer applications multiply, the demand for technology professionals is growing significantly. Not only this, career options are also broadening, opening doors for computer networking professionals to unique and more creative jobs.

The best part is that practically every industry needs communication networking professionals to establish, manage, troubleshoot, maintain and upgrade their computer and communication systems. Career prospects are already bright in this field and are expected to increase further in the coming years.

Below are competencies (education, skills and abilities) requirements for aspiring computer networking and communications professionals.
  • Educational Requirements
Aspiring technology professionals need to earn a degree of diploma in computer and communication networking to enter the world of work. By this, they will build a strong foundation in computer networking fundamentals, computer architecture, software design and development, operating systems fundamentals, network operating systems, database design and modelling, network management, systems analysis and design, switching and routing, enterprise network design, and advanced networking troubleshooting.
  • Hands-on Training
Along with a strong foundation in technology fundamentals, they are also expected to know how to put them into practice. They can gain computer networking training by working on individual and team projects in college labs and through industry field placements.  They must be comfortable in website design and development, software programming, working on and managing and troubleshooting wireless networks. Having hands-on training or practical experience enhances the likelihood of finding a decent paying job.
  • Business Acumen
Technologists, in constantly changing business environment, are also expected to possess strong business acumen. They may be expected to communicate with the clients, vendors and other associated parties, or market technology products and services. Therefore, it becomes necessary for aspiring computer and communication networking professionals to develop business communication and consulting skills and analytical skills and the ability to build and implement logic and problem solving strategies. For this, they may have to consider completing a business communication course.

Selecting the Right Program

There are a number of network and communications programs offered by the colleges in Canada. However, ‘they differ in content, duration and practical training. Although both diploma and degree programs are available in communication and computer networking but a degree program can help students find better and more advanced and high paying jobs. Moreover, they can enter into teaching profession if they wish to.


Centennial College’s four year bachelor degree program in applied information sciences – computer and communication networks is a comprehensive program. In fact, the college was selected by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to deliver a program to address the critical industry demand for networking professionals.

The college has state-of-the-art computer laboratories equipped with VoIP, wireless broadband, cellular networks, advanced routing and switching and network management. With this, the program also includes a co-op work term between second and third year.


The best part is that the course creates a unique balance between technology and business subjects. You do not need to enroll into a separate business communication program.


Admission Prerequisites


In order to apply for this program, high school students need to submit secondary school diploma or equivalent, and scores of English Grade 12 University with scores 65 % or higher, one Grade 12 Mathematics (Math Grade 12U Advanced Functions or Math Grade 12U calculus and Vectors or Math Grade 12U with Mathematics of Data Management or equivalent) with grade 60% or higher and six Grade 12 U, Grade 12M, or OAC credits with an overall average of 65% or higher.

Mature applicants can also apply for this program. They need to provide transcripts showing English Grade 12U, OAC or equivalent and Mathematics Grade 12U, 12M or equivalent, and a resume detailing work experience.

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