Online Degree in Computer Networking – First Step Towards a Rewarding Career

Most of the online computer networking degrees available are at a Bachelor’s or Associate’s Degree level, since one is allowed to specialise only at Master’s level courses. Bachelor’s and Associate’s degrees are offered online because they provide students with the foundation for more complex computer networking. That is why these degree programmes are appropriate for the online or distance learning format. Computer networking has become more and more important with the increase in globalisation and the need to network systems, for the effective functioning of most industries. That is why the need for skilled individuals possessing specialised knowledge of maintaining secure network infrastructures are required among job sectors.

The different types of online degrees available are:

• Undergraduate certificate in Computer Networking
• Associate of Science in Computer Networking and Security Management
• Associate of Arts in Computer Networking
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Network Technology
• Master of Science in Information Technology and Network Design

Some of the subjects that constitute these degree programmes are:

• Local and wide area networking
• Authentication schemes
• Network security
• Directory services
• Various operating systems

Apart from these, most of the courses enable hand-on training by creating virtual lab environments for the students, in an effort to maximise their skills and learning potential.

A computer networking graduate will have skills such as designing and installing a computer network, as well as evaluating and analysing the network systems, and attending to troubleshooting problems and other related issues. The emphasis of most online computer networking degree programmes will be not only on designing new systems, but also on modifying and upgrading existing computer systems. Students will be provided with the opportunity to work wit a host of computer networking programmes so as to enable them to make the best possible use of their practical as well as theoretical knowledge in computer networking.

Online degrees offered:

Strayer University Online offers an Associate’s Degree in Computer Networking, while Keiser University offers an Associate’s Degree in Computer Networking and Security Management. Westwood College also offers online Associate’s Applied Science degree in Computer Network Engineering. Other online computer networking degrees are offered by Iowa Central College Online, Regis University, Kaplan University, and Virginia College, among many others. Capella University offers an MS in Network Architecture, South University offers a Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology, University of Phoenix offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology. Other universities offering online computer networking degrees include Bryant and Stratton College, Bellevue University, ECPI College of Technology, Lincoln College Online and Rasmussen College.

Some of the various professions in which such computer networking graduates are eventually absorbed are:

• Computer systems design
• Teaching or supervision in colleges and Universities
• Telecommunications
• Postal Service
• Natural gas distributors
• Rail transportation

A degree in computer networking can, as is mentioned above, open up a plethora of possible occupations to choose from, and can prove to be a highly lucrative career, if the appropriate skills are put into use.