Computer Information Systems (AAS), Network Administration Concentration

School of Business & Information Technology (BIT)

The CIS Network Administration Concentration prepares students with the technical knowledge and skills to excel in administering complex IP networks, which are increasingly integral to the functioning of any large business, from manufacturing to finance to food service to science and government services.

Through a partnership with the Cisco Networking Academy we offer courses which provide interactive learning tools and activities to help students develop practical experience and 21st century career skills such as problem solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Educational Option Information

• This program can be completed: Part-time or full-time
• This program can be started: Fall and Spring Terms
• Primary course location: Main Campus, with some courses offered as Distance Learning

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

• Cost of Attendance
• Tuition
• Books
• Program and Course Fees

Financial Aid Considerations

• This is a financial aid eligible program.
  • Direct Subsidized Loans: 150 percent rule
  • Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.

Other costs

• Optional costs for certification exam fees are approximately $200-$300 each for the CompTIA and Cisco Certifications. However, students can qualify for discounts on the Cisco exams with scores above 75% in a qualifying course.

Educational Opportunities

Graduates that successfully complete the curriculum of this program will be eligible to sit for several industry certification exams including:

• CompTIA A+ (PC Pro)
• CompTIA Network+ (Network Pro)
• CompTIA Linux+ 
• Cisco Systems CCENT
• Cisco Systems CCNA
• Cisco Systems CCNA Security

Many of the courses in this program are transferable and some may be applied to four-year degree programs at other institutions. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.

Career Opportunities

The employment outlook should be favorable for network administration occupations as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. Growth is expected in healthcare industries as their use of information technology increases. More administrators will be required to manage the growing systems and networks found at hospitals and other healthcare institutions. Administrators with proper training will be needed to reinforce network and system security as information security concerns are increasing for many businesses and industries.

Prospects are even better for applicants with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and who are up to date on the latest technology. So students should consider transferring their AAS credits into a four-year program.