Major Details
In the IT Support Technician program at Minnesota State College Southeast, you will learn to meet the challenges of an ever-changing computer-networking environment. Demand for network technicians is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks.
At MSC Southeast, students are trained in designing, planning, implementing and managing network systems with an emphasis on a "hands-on" applied approach to learning. The hands-on approach stressed throughout the program adds a dimension necessary to acquire practical troubleshooting skills to function efficiently in this complex computer field.
The 32-credit IT Support Technician diploma includes 8 credits of general college education and 24 credits of technical coursework. Hands-on computer experience covers MS Workstation, PC Hardware Support, Microsoft Server/Enterprise, Wireless Communications, Fundamentals of Security, and more. Coursework is available 100% online, offering maximum flexibility. Upon graduation, you will be ready to begin a career in this high paying, in-demand field.
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Courses
1) 1000 level (minimum) General Education courses required unless specified.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
NWAT1601
Windows Workstation I
This course will explore the MS workstation networking client. The students will learn how to plan, install and configure a MS workstation in a single and multi-domain environment. Emphasis will be placed on the managing, monitoring and optimizing of network resources. Basic troubleshooting techniques will be discussed as it relates to the Microsoft networking environment. The use of diagnostic and monitoring software will be emphasized. (Prerequisite: None) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
NWAT1602
Windows Workstation II
This course will explore the Microsoft Workstation desktop operating system environment. Students will learn how to plan, install, and configure a Microsoft workstation in a standalone and domain environment. Various system management topics will be discussed including system utilities, managing disks, file systems, users, and security. Troubleshooting techniques will be discussed as they relate to Microsoft networking environment. (Prerequisite: NWAT1601) (1 credits: 1 lecture/0 lab)
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1 cr
NWAT1607
IT Fundamentals
Students will learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot PC computer equipment, mobile devices, and various peripherals. A variety of hardware, software, and cybersecurity methods will be covered such as taking a computer apart, motherboards, processors, memory, power, storage devices, I/O devices, introduction to networks, supporting mobile devices, virtualization, cloud computing, and customer support. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA A+ industry certification and students will be prepared to take the exam upon completion of this course. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1641
Networking Fundamentals
This course will provide students with the technical skills necessary to securely establish, maintain, and troubleshoot networks that businesses rely on. Students will gain experience with networking fundamentals, network implementations, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Network+ industry certification. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1649
Windows Server I
This course will provide students with an introduction to the Microsoft Windows Server operating system and basic administration tasks. Students will gain experience with key features including active directory, creating and managing user accounts, printing, installing a network operating system, performance monitoring, and backups. (Prerequisite: NWAT1601, NWAT1602) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1650
Cybersecurity Fundamentals
This course will provide students with a basic understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals. Students will gain experience with attacks, threats, vulnerabilities, architecture, design, implementation, operations, incident response, and risk compliance. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Security+ industry certification and students will be prepared to take the exam upon completion of this course. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2100
Cisco Networking I
Begin preparing for a networking career with this introduction to how networks operate. This course introduces network architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements. You get a chance to build a simple local area network (LAN), develop a working knowledge of IP addressing schemes, foundational network security, and you will perform basic configurations for routers and switches. This is one of three CCNA courses that will help you prepare for the Cisco CCNA certification. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2673
Linux Operating Systems
This course will provide students with an introduction to the Linux operating system and basic administration tasks so they can manage everything from cars and smartphones to servers and supercomputers as a vast number of everyday technology runs on the Linux operating system. Students will gain experience with key features including hardware & software configuration, system operation & maintenance, security, troubleshooting, and automation. This course aligns with CompTIA Linux+ industry certification and will help prepare students to take the exam after completing the course. (Prerequisites: NWAT1601, NWAT1602) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2676
Wireless Communications
This course provides a survey of techniques and procedures followed in the development of business computer information systems. Topics include structured approaches to needs assessment, specification, design, system development, documentation development and implementation of new systems. Students will be introduced to various CASE tools and their uses in system analysis and design. The student will use these tools to plan and create systems based on different network scenarios. (Prerequisites: NWAT1641, NWAT1649) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
Total Credits Required for this Major: 32 Credits
Estimated Costs for this Major
| Approximate Tuition/Fees: | $6,621 |
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| Minimum Tool Cost: | N/A |
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| Books/Supplies: | $400 |
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| Estimated Total: | $7,021 |
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Career Opportunities
- Network Administration Assistant
- Microsoft Network Administrator
- Cisco Certified Network Associate
- Internet Network Assistant
- Network Administrator Assistant
- Certified Netware Administrator
- Hardware and Software Technicians
Career Information
Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, And much more in this career field.
Outcomes
Networking & System Administration program graduates will be able to:
- Analyze, plan for and support operating system maintenance.
- Evaluate, identify and implement appropriate security standards.
- Acquire technical skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level employment in the information and technology fields.
- Design, build and manage PC networks in a multi-vendor OS environment. (Microsoft, Novell or Unix etc.)
- Configure and implement routers and switches to operate in a typical LAN/WAN environment.
- Perform TCP/IP skills in using and configuring network protocols.
- Identifying, implementing and configuring security best practices.
Highlights
- Curriculum is designed to be "hands-on"
- Fast growing, challenging field
- Flexible online courses ideal for working adults
- Cisco Certified and Microsoft Certified
Instructors
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Benjamin Adank
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Ben Adank is a full-time faculty member in the Cyber Information & Security and Network Systems & Administration programs. He taught as an adjunct and part time instructor in both areas from 2011-2020. As an industry expert at Itechra, a full service IT consulting company based in Winona, Ben brings a wealth of experience to his role at the college.
Ben holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from Bemidji State University and an associate degree in Information Technology from Western Technical College. He volunteers in the community as an elected official in Milton, WI; a founding board member of the Cochrane Fountain Youth Athletic Association; and as a Winona Chamber of Commerce board member.