North Central State College’s Information Technology Networking Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree prepares students for careers in networking, server administration, cybersecurity, hybrid infrastructure, and data center support.
Students gain hands‑on experience working with the technologies used in modern enterprise and hybrid (on‑premises and cloud‑connected) IT environments. Coursework focuses on how networks and systems are designed, secured, maintained, and supported in real‑world organizations.
Graduates are prepared to work in small‑ to mid‑size businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, and technology service providers.
Industry‑Aligned Certifications
Students develop skills aligned with industry‑recognized certifications through coursework and approved certification preparation electives, including:
Cisco
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) (Enterprise Networking, Switching, Routing, and Wireless)
CompTIA
- A+
- Linux+
- Security+
- Cloud+
Wireless Networking
- Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA)
Microsoft Server and Hybrid Infrastructure
- Microsoft AZ‑800: Administering Windows Server Hybrid Core Infrastructure
- Microsoft AZ‑801: Configuring Windows Server Hybrid Advanced Services
The AZ‑800 and AZ‑801 exams together lead to the Microsoft Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate certification, which validates skills used in modern Windows Server environments.
Certification preparation opportunities vary by course selection.
Server Administration and Hybrid Infrastructure
The IT Networking AAS includes extensive hands‑on server administration labs that emphasize practical skills used in enterprise environments.
Students gain experience in areas such as:
- Managing Windows Server roles and workloads
- Identity services and directory management
- Networking, DNS, and name resolution
- Storage, file services, and virtualization
- High availability, backup, and disaster recovery
- Securing, monitoring, and troubleshooting hybrid server environments
Career Preparation
Graduates of the IT Networking program develop strong technical problem‑solving, communication, and documentation skills needed to work effectively with users, technical teams, and supervisors.
The program emphasizes adaptability and lifelong learning, helping students stay current in a rapidly changing technology field.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Information Technology Networking AAS may pursue positions such as:
- IT Support Specialist / Help Desk Technician
- Network Support Specialist
- Network and Computer Technician
- Systems Administrator (Windows and Linux)
- Wireless Network Technician
- Data Center Technician / Infrastructure Support Technician
Graduates work in local and regional businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and technology service organizations.
Admission and Academic Requirements
Students entering the Information Technology and Engineering Technologies (ITEC) programs are expected to demonstrate basic computer competency, evaluated through a Computer Literacy assessment.
Students who do not meet minimum standards may be required to complete preparatory coursework.
A minimum grade of C‑ or higher is required in all technical courses.
Courses not meeting the minimum grade must be repeated.
The Associate of Applied Science degree is awarded upon successful completion of all program requirements.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Information Technology Networking Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program are prepared to support modern enterprise and hybrid IT environments through hands‑on experience in networking, server administration, security, and troubleshooting.
Students who successfully complete the program will be able to:
- Design, implement, and administer small‑ and mid‑size business (SMB) networks, including wired and wireless networks
- Install, configure, and manage server and workstation operating systems
- Implement and administer network and system security controls
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, networking, and communications issues
- Administer Windows Server in on‑premises and hybrid environments
- Apply advanced server administration concepts such as high availability, backup, disaster recovery, and system monitoring
- Communicate technical information clearly through documentation and collaboration
- Prepare for industry‑recognized certifications including Cisco®, CompTIA®, Microsoft®, and CWNA®
Why This Program Matters
Ohio’s continued growth in enterprise IT, hybrid server environments, wireless infrastructure, and data centers has increased demand for skilled IT professionals.
The Information Technology Networking AAS provides a direct pathway into the IT workforce while supporting long‑term career growth and certification opportunities.
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