Reasons to Consider a Career in Computer Systems Technology Networking

A career in computer systems technology - networking may seem rewarding and exciting from outside. Undoubtedly! But on the other side, computer networking involves a lot of hard work, long hours of work and constant learning.

Though this job is not for everyone but for those who are ready to plunge in this field, it offers a plenty of job opportunities, rewards and opportunities to grow constantly. A career in networking requires deep understanding of PC hardware, operating systems and other software programs, wired and wireless networks, and computing and communicating technology. In addition, you must keep a track of ever-growing innovations of the digital revolution.

Centennial College's three-year post-secondary diploma program in computer networking training prepares you for a variety of careers in for the growing mesh of internet, intranet, extranet and telecoms. The program uniquely blends theory with practical. You will study about PC hardware, operating systems, web design, network technologies, devices and security, WAN technologies, computer forensic, wireless technology, voice and video over IP, network management, technical writing and electricity for computer systems.

The co-op component of the computer networking course gives you an opportunity to enhance your education by allowing you to work for three paid terms in the field. You not only put your classroom learning into practice but also gain relevant industry contacts. The program prepares you for a variety of careers as LAN administrators, LAN support, help desk support, network technical support specialists, network technologists, field service representatives and computer systems technologists.

Reasons for Considering a Career in Computer Networking

Here are some of the biggest reasons why you should consider a career in computer networking.

You'll be in constant demand: There is an acute shortage of computer networking professionals in Canada. This means employers will always be interested in hiring you. Computer networking plays a critical role in ensuring smooth day-to-day functioning of organizations. Network administration is a solid bet in such a scenario.

You'll be able to find employment in any industry: Computer networking, as mentioned earlier, plays an important role in ensuring smooth functioning of a company. Almost all organizations have IT departments where they need computer networking professionals to help them keep their communication networks working. This gives you an opportunity to work in the industry of your choice.

You'll have a challenging job: Innovations keep happening in this field of technology and you'll always be engaged in updating the existing systems. Therefore, it is not a monotonous job and poses new challenges in front of you.

You'll learn as you go: Graduating from a computer networking program doesn't mean that you have learnt it all. The continuous advancements in technology keep you in the learning mode constantly. You learn even while you're on the job, which in turn makes you worthier of your job.

The profession offers numerous other benefits. Generally, the individuals working in this field are highly paid and have international job opportunities. The program, therefore, not only prepares you to work in Canada but almost everywhere in the world.

Computer and Communication Networks Is Delivered in Balanced Manner

Centennial College prides itself on offering students a balance between theory and practical application and nowhere is this more important than in its Bachelor offerings. Typically, a Bachelor degree is earned through university offerings. However, Centennial College has been chosen by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to deliver a few programs that take four years to complete. As such, students obtain the practical application typical of a college course with the theory for which university-level undertakings are known.

One such bachelor program is Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences – Computer and Communication Networks, which offers computer networking training to those who are interested in becoming part of a select group of Ontario students to receive a four-year bachelor’s degree in Applied Information Sciences from the only program of its kind in the province.

Admission Process: There are different requirements for students who are applying straight out of high school compared to mature students. For example, high school applicants must have at least six Grade 12U, Grade 12M, or OAC credits with an overall average of 65 per cent or higher. Mature students, meanwhile must be: 21 years of age or older by December 31 of the program year and provide transcripts showing: English Grade 12U, OAC, or equivalent and Mathematics Grade 12U, 12M or equivalent. They must also provide a complete academic history (transcripts or international evaluation) and a resume detailing work experience.

Program Structure: The reason the program is so unique is that rather than just focusing on technology, students also attend business courses.  Each business communications course has a computer networking tie-in. Students attend lectures in lecture halls but much of their time is spent learning in labs that boast VoIP, cellular networks, wireless broadband (WiMax), advanced routing and switching as well as network management. Classes are limited in size, which allows for faculty members to spend one-on-one time with their students. Once students are comfortable with their newly acquired knowledge, they partake in a co-op work term during the summer between second and third year. It is worth noting that students can specialize in network security or wireless systems.

Learning Outcomes: Once students graduate, they may enter the field in a range of positions, among which are technical account managers, business account managers, network administrators, network analysts and more. They may also continue their education through educational partnerships that Centennial College has established with post-secondary institutions, which allow them to apply the credits students have earned towards further study.

Once they complete their Computer Networking Training, Centennial College grads have the know-how to fulfill position that include network support, network administrator, project management analyst, IT program manager, technical account manager, business account manager and network analyst.

Employment Opportunities after Completing a Bachelor Degree in Computer Networking Training

Centennial College’s bachelor degree program in applied information sciences – computer and communication networks opens doors to numerous career options. It’s a multidisciplinary course that covers technology and business subjects, preparing students for sustainable careers in the field of communication and computer networking in the ever-changing business environment.

The four-year program is offers the right blend of theory and practical, helping students develop strong technological and business fundamentals, project management, client relationship management, entrepreneurship, communication and business consulting skills. The computer networking training course at Centennial has been granted consent by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to address the critical need for networking professionals in Ontario. This means it meets all quality standards regarding program curriculum, practical experience and qualification and ability of teaching staff.

Employment Options upon Graduation

• IT Project Manager: IT project managers are professionals responsible for planning, execution and maintaining IT projects for different clients of the company. They seldom participate directly in activities related to designing, programming, developing and testing an IT application. They rather are responsible for maintaining the progress of various tasks, streamlining the interaction, ensuring the teamwork, restricting the cost and communicating with clients.
  
  
• Technical Account Manager: Technical account managers are responsible for handling technical aspects of a company’s relationship with its clients. They may also be responsible for technical sales and consultancy, ongoing technical support and monitoring product performance to ensure customer satisfaction and strengthen customer relationships.
  
  
• Network Administrator: Network administrators are the professionals who are responsible for the maintenance of computer software systems and hardware that make up computer and communication networking system of a company. They are also responsible for maintaining and monitoring the system and related equipment. They also are involved in installing and implementing security programs.
  
  
• Business Account Manager: Business account managers are responsible for the management of sales and relationships with clients. They serve as an interface between the customers and sales and technical team of the company. They are responsible for maintaining long term relationships with the clients as well as up-selling and cross-selling, and acquiring new clients.
  
  
• Network Analyst: Network analysts are responsible for planning, designing, analyzing, and providing technical support for data communication network within a company. They are also involved in evaluation of network technology and recommending the purchase of new equipment to establish to strengthen the communication network of a company.
  
  
• Security Analyst: Security analysts are responsible for maintaining the security of information within the company. They analyze the effectiveness of security measures and address the flaws in information security system of the company. They are also responsible for protecting sensitive information of the company and ensuring that the communication network of the company is secured to prevent unauthorized access.
  
  

The computer training and business communication course offers excellent employment prospects. The students are also given an opportunity to study further and seek more advanced career opportunities. The program graduates are eligible to apply their academic rewards for further studies with selected universities, colleges and institutions.

Computer Systems Technology Networking Leads to Various Industry Certifications

Did you know that some post-secondary programs not only allow you to graduate with a credential such as a diploma or an advanced diploma, but also prepares you to pursue industry standard certifications?

One such offering is Centennial College's computer networking training in Toronto - Computer Systems Technology - Networking - which allows you to pursue certifications that include: Comptia A+, Net+, iNet, Cisco CCNA, Novell CNE, Microsoft Win2000 Professional and Server.

This is made possible with the thorough training that students obtain during their three years of study, which offers a strong focus on hands-on labs and technical problem-solving aspects including hands-on experience with the latest equipment and techniques for copper/ fiber cabling certification and network troubleshooting. Here is a closer look at some of the program's varied courses.

Introduction to Programming: This introductory course into programming using the Visual C++ language offers students a hands-on opportunity to write computer programs using good programming techniques in a Microsoft Windows environment. In this course, students write and debug structured programs using the C++ language. Some of the topics include variable declarations, mathematical calculations, flow control using selection and repetition structures, writing programs with one or more functions, as well as data structures such as arrays, and strings.

Introduction to Telephony: Students examine components and standards of today's telecommunication networks, transporting voice, images, video and data to any location in the world, from traditional voice telephony to modern converged networks. As a hands-on component, students configure and test Key Systems and Avaya PBXs in several simulated business environments.

Network Design & Test: Via both theoretical lectures and hands-on labs, students develop their consulting skills through customer requirement analysis, logical and physical design documentation, product specifications and sourcing, price quotation, wiring, hardware installations, software configurations, and thorough testing and troubleshooting.

PC Hardware: Students come to understand terminology, how to perform fundamental tasks, and advanced configuration and troubleshooting, including using command line to accomplish technical tasks. As a hands-on component, students partake in labs that cover technical concepts and terminology of the PC's internal and external components and operating systems.

Once they successfully complete each computer networking course, students can either pursue further education at one of Centennial College's educational partner institutions or enter the industry in roles that include: computer systems technologists, field service representatives, network technologists, network technical support specialists, help desk support, LAN support and LAN administrators.

It is worth noting that although the program is three years in length, students have a chance to graduate before that three years is up, should their post-graduation goals change. Exit points are available to qualified students after one year (CRAM certificate) and two years (Technician diploma).

Computer Systems Technology Networking Teaches Latest Advances in the Field

Computer Systems Technology - Networking is a three-year offering at Centennial College for those who are interested in jobs in technical support for the growing mesh of Internet, intranet, extranet and telecoms. To ensure that students receive the most up-to-date information, they are taught with ever-growing innovations of the digital revolution in mind. As such, students gain hands-on experience with the latest equipment and techniques for copper/fiber cabling certification and network troubleshooting.

Here is a closer look at the computer networking training through an examination of some of its courses.

Network Technologies: As a fundamental course, this aspect of the program sees students spend time in both theoretical lectures and labs covering base information behind LANs, WANs and their technologies. The lab classes are an opportunity for students to install, configure and troubleshoot a physical network environment.

Data Communications: This is the follow-up course to Network Technologies and helps students to easily understand the concepts in data communications used in voice, video and data networks, and put them in practice in laboratory.

Network Devices: Students become familiar with the functions and impact of switches and routers, and solidify their knowledge by configuring these devices in a hands-on environment. Students also examine tools for debugging and troubleshooting network connectivity and discuss security and privacy issues.

Network Services: This overview course looks at the services offered on Windows Server 2008 and Linux platforms - from installation to configuration, to management and monitoring. As with many of the other courses in this program, hands-on application is employed as students install, configure, and administer email, Web, collaboration and data services. Through group and individual projects, students also become skilled in troubleshooting and maintaining the services and the server environment.

Technologist Project: After completing the fifth-semester Fundamentals of Project Management course, students design a project that fulfills the specs laid down to accomplish business objectives. They work in a team to handle the various aspects of the project and preserve clear and accurate project related documents, which adhere to industry standards. During the implementation process, students go through configuration and troubleshooting exercises, using a systematic approach and diagnostic tools to solve problems.

Once students successfully complete each computer networking course in the program, they are prepared to obtain their Ontario College Advanced Diploma and enter positions as computer systems technologists, field service representatives, network technologists, network technical support specialists, help desk support, LAN support and LAN administrators. Among the companies that have hired previous grads are Enbridge Consumers Gas, StorageTek, Toronto Hydro and Transport Canada.

Additionally, graduates of Centennial College are prepared to pursue industry standard certifications such as Comptia A+, Net+, iNet, Cisco CCNA, Novell CNE, Microsoft Win2000 Professional and Server.

Bachelor Degree Programs in Computer and Communication Networks

The advancement in computing, internet and networking technologies continues to transform our personal, social and business lives. There is an increased reliance on technology to exchange information and conduct business. This has resulted in a significant increase in the demand for professionals who can create an appropriate blend of computer and communications technologies and build a robust system which organizations can rely on.

However, such skills are in short supply in Canada. A bachelor degree program in applied information sciences – computer and communication networks addresses the industry needs for computer networking professionals. The program prepares students to become competent networking and computer professionals who are capable of designing, developing and implementing robust communication systems, meeting specific requirements of the organizations.

Bachelor of Applied Sciences – What Will You Study?

Centennial College’s bachelor degree program in applied sciences – computer and communication networks offers a unique blend of technology and business subjects. The college has been granted consent by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to deliver this program to address industry demand.

The four-year computer networking and business communication course covers a wide range of basic and advanced technology and business management subjects, including Computer Network Fundamentals, Computer Architecture, Website Design and Development, Logic and Problem Solving Strategies, Communication Skills, Economics, Financial Analysis, Mathematics, Operating Systems Fundamentals, LAN Switching and Routing, Software Development Programming, Statistics and Research Methods, Network Operating Systems, WAN Technologies, Applied Ethics and Database Design and Modelling.

You will also study advanced technology and business subjects, including Organizational and Client Relationships, Computer and Network Security, Communication Technology, Wireless Networks, Voice Systems and Services, System Design and Analysis, Network Management, Voice Systems and Services, Voice/IP Convergence, Management of Change and Innovation, Enterprise Network Design, Business Consulting and Advanced Troubleshooting.

Hands-on Training

The program offers a unique blend of theory and practical. Along with classroom lectures, practical hands-on computer networking training is also provided in the modern laboratories that are specially engineered for the curriculum. The college laboratories are fully equipped facilities, offering cellular networks, VoIP, wireless broadband and advanced routing and switching. The course is delivered by highly qualified and experienced faculty with strong academic and industry backgrounds.

In addition to this, the degree program also incorporates a co-op work term during the summer and between second and third year, in order to provide you with real world experience. This is an opportunity to put your classroom learning into practice, understand the competitive and ever-changing world of work and gain relevant industry contacts.

After Graduation

You may apply your academic credits towards further studies at the associated universities, institutions or professional associations upon graduation. Alternatively, you can choose to pursue your career as an IT project manager, technical account manager, business account manager, network administrator, security analyst or project management analyst.

Enrollment Guide

This program accepts applications from high school graduates as well as mature applicants. However, eligibility criteria differ. In order to apply for this program, high school graduates need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• Six Grade 12 U, Grade 12M, or OAC credits with an overall average of at least 65% (courses must include: English Grade 12U with 65% or higher, Math Grade 12U Advanced Functions, math Grade 12U Calculus and Vectors and Math Grade 12U Mathematics of Data Management or equivalent)

Mature applicants will need:

• To be at least 21 years of age by December 31 of the program year
• Transcripts – English Grade 12U, OAC or equivalent and Mathematics Grade 12U, OAC or equivalent
• Complete academic history
• A resume detailing work experience

Competencies Required for Becoming a Computer Networking Professional

As more companies are adopting advanced computer technologies and establishing superior networking systems, the need for computer networking professionals is also increasing. Practically every company today relies of computer systems technologists to ensure that all the devices are connected, and working smoothly.

The communication systems at work are quite complex and keeping them at work always is a more complex job. As the information transferring and sharing needs of each organization are different, the communication systems are tailor-made and are upgraded whenever required.

However, they can sometimes breakdown or lines can be broken or hardware and software systems may create problems. In order to keep them under control and make them perform in the expected manner, the organizations need computer technology professionals who are knowledgeable, well trained and have the ability to deal with technical issues.

Job Prospects

As mentioned earlier, the demand for computer networking professionals is constantly increasing. The growth in this field is faster than the average and higher as compared to other sectors. So, it is a good time to enter the work and build rewarding careers in the field of information technology.

Growth in this field can be attributed to many factors;

(1) computer networks are integral part of the business world as well as in personal life;

(2) keeping up with current technology is a must to survive the competition;

(3) making best possible use of technology is important to keep ahead of competition and;

(4) there is a shortage of highly knowledgeable and skilled computer networking professionals.

Therefore, professionals with strong educational background, hands-on practical and understanding of ethics in technology and the environment are in great demand. Employers, in addition to this, also look for strong customer skills while hiring them.

Prerequisites for Becoming a Computer Networking Professional

In order to become computer networking professionals, the candidates are required to gain following competencies (education and skills).

Education

A formal education in computer systems technology - networking is the minimum requirement to seek employment in the industry. A post-secondary computer networking course can help you gain the knowledge and skills required to work on the growing mesh of internet, intranet, extranet and telecoms, computers and hardware and software.

Centennial College's three-year post-secondary program in computer systems technology incorporates the latest in computer systems, offering them in-depth knowledge about operating systems, configuration and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks, in order to have full control of the computing and communicating technology.

In order to apply for this program, students will need to submit secondary school diploma certificate or equivalent and scores of English Grade 12 C or University and Mathematics 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent.

Hands-on Practical

In addition to theoretical understanding, the professionals need to have substantial hands-on experience, in order to become employable. Centennial College's program also incorporates computer networking training through hands-on lab and industry field placements. The program also offers an optional co-op component, allowing academically qualified students enhance their education by working three terms as paid employees in the field.

Skills

The professionals are also expected to possess strong technical problem solving, communication, technical report writing and project management skills along with strong technology fundamentals and hands-on experience.

Computer and Communication Networks Consists of Carefully Delivered Curriculum

During each semester of Centennial College’s Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences – Computer and Communication Networks, students attend networking, business, math and software-related courses as well as a field placement to ensure they are comfortable in real-world environments. This is essential to them obtaining a well-rounded education that will compliment the Bachelor degree they receive.

Here is a look at some of the topics that are covered within this computer networking training.

Computer Network Fundamentals: To gain a solid foundation on which to base the rest of their training, students attend this course during the first semester. It focuses on network terminology, protocols, local-area networks (LANs), wide-area networks (WANs), Open System Interconnection (OSI) models. Up to date technologies on wireless, ADSL, and cable modems technologies are surveyed and its features are explained. Through hands-on application, hardware such as router, hubs and network cabling is introduced with Internet Protocol (IP) addressing, and network standards.

Computer Architecture: Another fundamental course, it introduces the structure and operation of computers. Students learn operational methods of the hardware, with the services provided by operating system software; with the acquisition, processing, storage, and output of data; and with the interaction between computers.

Database Design & Modeling: In labs, students are exposed to core concepts related to relational databases, including the general architecture, conceptual, logical and physical design, querying techniques, and security features.

Principles of Computer & Network Security: Security and privacy are pivotal issues in today’s networking environment. The safely transmission of information relies on a proper design of computer security architecture. As such, students first obtain mathematical fundamentals and principles that provide a framework to model and analyze security. Security models, policies and implementations techniques are then explained and evaluated.

Voice Systems & Services: Today’s telecommunication networks include transporting voice, images, video and data to any location in the world. To gain a full perspective, in groups, students debate current telecommunication trends and make predictions. They also plan and design telecommunications systems in practical lab applications that cover: voice mail management, call centre practices and incorporation of wireless telecommunication devices into the telephone network. Broadband networks, ISDN, frame relay, ATM, SDH and SONET are also examined.

After students successfully complete each network, software, math and business communications course, they are prepared to launch careers as: business account managers, IT project managers, technical account managers, network administrators, security analysts, network analysts, network support and project management analysts.

Educational Requirements for Becoming a Computer Networking Professional

Students considering a career in the field of computer networking need to undergo a formal education in a computer systems technology - networking post secondary school. The program prepares them to find employment in technical support with internet, intranet, extranet and telecom companies. It's a fast-track yet intense course that allows students to learn about installing, maintaining and troubleshoot networks of computer systems. In addition, a strong emphasis is laid on hands-on-labs and technical problem solving. The program also allows students to put their classroom learning into practice by working three terms as paid employees in the field. This helps them gain real-world experience and valuable contacts that can be used as references in future. It is designed to train students in various aspects of computers such as hardware, software, operating systems, network technologies and devices, data communications, programming, routing and switching, network management and troubleshooting and database management.

Computer Networking Program in Toronto

The post-secondary computer networking program typically runs for three years and covers a wide range of subjects, combining classroom learning, hands-on-labs, technical problem solving and field placement. Students learn about operating systems as well as configuring and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks in order to have full control of the computing and communicating technology. They also learn to put together and maintain systems to ensure their smooth functioning.

The program covers a wide range of subjects including mathematics, web design, programming, technical writing, network devices, technologies and systems, telephony, statistics, network security, voice and video over IP, network security and management and wireless network.

Practical computer networking training helps students put classroom learning into practice. A strong focus is put on report writing, project management, business skills, customer skills and communication skills.

Career Options

Graduates of a computer networking course can find entry level jobs as computer system technologists, network programmers, network analysts, network technicians, field service representatives, network technologies support, network technical support specialists, help desk support, LAN support and LAN administrators in IT departments of the companies.

The professionals can find employment in almost all the sectors as most companies nowadays make use computers and other related technologies in their day-to-day operations. However, major employment opportunities exist with telecom companies, internet and extranet companies, telecomputing, electrical engineering companies, energy and power production companies, utility, engineering firms and computer software development companies.

Although job opportunities in this field are increasing but employers prefer to hire people who possess excellent technical and customer skills. This is because the professionals have to constantly deal with customers when they work in customer support departments.

Work Activities

Typical work activities of computer networking professionals include

• Fixing network-related problems
• Installing network components such as disc drives, printers, software systems, apps, etc
• Maintaining system health
• Ensuring smooth functioning of computer systems and other related networks
• Adhering to network standards
• Ensuring network connectivity
• Solving technical problems whenever they arise
• Ensuring complete security of data and information
• Providing network-related services to the customers

The exact job roles and responsibilities depend upon the employment, job title and individual experience.

Enrolling in Computer Networking Program

In order to apply for computer networking program at Centennial College, you will need:

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent
• English Grade 12 C or University or equivalent
• Mathematics Grade 11 M or 12 C or University or equivalent

Computer and Communication Networks With The Perks of a Bachelor Degree and College Training

With today’s shifting educational landscape, there is a blurring of lines in terms of how programs are taught. For example, some Canadian colleges are now offering Bachelor degree offerings in a number of areas. These are four-year degree programs that come with the added perks — namely practical training and smaller sized classes — of studying at college level.

Centennial College’s computer networking training is one of these four-year, college-level Bachelor programs. Known officially as Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences - Computer and Communication Networks, it was designed to meet an industry demand for professionals who are adept in networking. In fact, Centennial College was selected by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to deliver the program and is the only institution in Ontario to offer a bachelor’s degree program in Computer and Communication Networks.

Completed in eight semesters, the offering balances each business communications course that it offers with a technology course so that students graduate with the practical and the theoretical backgrounds for which employers are looking. Thanks to the thorough training, which also includes the opportunity for specialization in network security or wireless systems, students can launch careers as technical account or business account managers, IT project managers, network or security analysts, project management analysts, network administrators or network support.

For the practical aspects of the offering, students work in classrooms at Progress Campus that have been outfitted with everything that they need to master all the areas they study. These laboratories offer VoIP, cellular networks, wireless broadband (WiMax), advanced routing and switching as well as network management. The work in the labs is great practice not only for post-graduate possibilities but also for another preparatory aspect of the program: a co-op work term during the summer between second and third year. This co-op option is a chance for students to test out their knowledge prior to graduation while learning more about the industry and expanding their network.

Meanwhile among the specific courses that students attend during their four years at Centennial College are: Computer Architecture, Website Design and Development, Financial Analysis, LAN Switching and Routing, Communication Technology, Wireless Networks, Voice Systems & Services, Quantitative Research Methods, Enterprise Network Design, Networking: Advanced Troubleshooting.

Once they complete their Computer Networking Training, Centennial College grads have the know-how to fulfill position that include network support, network administrator, project management analyst, IT program manager, technical account manager, business account manager and network analyst.

Build a Career in IT Industry with Computer Networking Course Post Secondary School

Technology is evolving continuously, so is increasing the demand for those who can develop it, keep a pace with it and help make the most of it. Individuals with diploma in computer systems technology - networking are on the road to build rewarding careers. The job of a networking professional is creative, exploratory and generously paying. It breaks the monotony and offers variety to those who don't want to stuck with the sameness and seek variety in their jobs.

The job market for computer networking professionals is constantly expanding. They don't need to worry about job security. The field also offers a variety of career opportunities to those who want to work from home. Computer networking makes a great choice for students who have a love for computers and network technologies.

Computer Networking Program in Canada

A good computer networking course combines theory, hands-on-labs, technical problem solving and hands-on-experience, allowing students to put classroom learning into practice. The program aims at gaining a thorough understanding of computer hardware, software, network technologies, devices and security, operating systems, telephony, routing, data communications, network designing, testing and management, troubleshooting and computer forensics.

You also learn programming, technical writing and report writing and gain business and customer handling skills. The three-year diploma aims at preparing you to find entry-level jobs in technical support for internet, intranet, extranet and telecoms in companies. You are taught to configure and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks during the course. You also get practical computer networking training with the latest equipments and techniques.

Hands-on-Experience

Some good colleges in Canada also allow students enhance their education by offering them a special co-op component feature. They can work three terms as paid employees in the field. This helps them gain practical experience and sets a good foundation for a fulfilling career ahead. Moreover, it provides students with valuable contacts for future references.

After Course Completion

By the time you complete it, you are able to put together your technical knowledge, business understanding, creativity and communication and customer handling skills. Technically, you will be able to troubleshoot, repair, maintain and configure hardware and software and network operating systems.

Graduates are also positioned to pursue industry standard certifications including Net+, Comptia A+, Cisco CCNA, iNet, Novel CNE, Microsoft Win2000 Professional and Server.

Those interested in further studies can apply with selected universities, institutions and professional associations. The colleges have partnerships that allow graduates to apply academic credit towards further study.

Enrolling in a Computer Systems Technology - Networking Program

Many colleges in Canada offer computer networking program. Needless to say, not all offer students the opportunities to have hands-on-experience. There are some public colleges in the country that are dedicated t offer strong theoretical knowledge and in-field training to students.

It's crucial to carefully select a college and a program, so that you can fulfill your specific goals. Generally, you will need to submit a secondary school diploma certificate and English Grade 12 C or University and Mathematics 11 M or 12 C or University scores to apply for the course.

A computer networking program is the right choice for those who have an inclination towards technology and want to build a career in IT industry.

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.