Major in Computer Networks and Security

Students may seek an academic major in computer networks and security.

The computer networks and security major prepares students to enter or advance in computer networking fields where industry-standard certifications are commonly used to show skills or knowledge level and are considered essential in hiring and promotion decisions. The curriculum focuses on the techniques, policies, operational procedures, and technologies needed to design, implement, administer, secure, and troubleshoot enterprise-level networks. The major prepares students for careers as network managers, systems administrators, and network security analysts. It is designed to combine the benefits of a traditional college education with the benefits of hands-on training in state-of-the-art computer technology. The computer networks and security curriculum integrates technical skill with communication skills, superior general education knowledge, and breadth of knowledge in the information technology field, particularly in networks and security.

Intended Program Outcomes

The student who graduates with a major in computer networks and security will be able to

• Design, implement, and administer local-area and wide-area networks to satisfy organizational goals.
• Resolve information technology (IT) system problems and meet the needs of end-users by applying troubleshooting methodologies.
• Apply relevant policies and procedures to effectively secure and monitor IT systems.
• Meet organizational goals in completing individual and team assignments using effective workforce skills, best practices, and ethical principles.
• Effectively communicate IT knowledge to diverse audiences using a wide range of presentation modalities.

Degree Requirements

A degree with a major in computer networks and security requires the successful completion of 120 credits of coursework, including 33 credits for the major, 41 credits in general education requirements, and 46 credits in the minor, electives, and other degree requirements. At least 17 credits in the major must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above), and 18 credits in courses designated CMIT.

Requirements for the Computer Networks and Security Major

Coursework for a major in computer networks and security includes the following:

• Required foundation courses (6 credits): CMIT 202 and 265
• Required core courses (9 credits): CMIT 320, 350, and 368
• Supplemental major courses (9 credits): Any upper-level CMIT courses (Note: Taking courses within a single topic area—Microsoft, Cisco, or security—is highly recommended.)
• Supplemental computing courses (6 credits): Any CMIS, CMIT, CMSC, CMST, CSIA, and IFSM courses
• Required capstone course (3 credits): CMIT 495

Recommended Sequence

The following course sequence will fulfill all the requirements for the BS in computer networks and security. Coursework for the major is indicated by . Since some recommended courses fulfill more than one requirement, substituting courses for those listed may make it necessary to take additional courses to meet degree requirements. Students should consult an advisor whenever taking advantage of other options.

Computer Networks and Security Degree Courses

First Courses (to be taken within the first 18 credits)

Note: Placement tests are required for math and writing courses.

• EDCP 100 Principles and Strategies of Successful Learning (3)
  (strongly recommended as first course)
• LIBS 150 Introduction to Research (1)
• WRTG 101 Introduction to Writing (3)
• MATH 106 Finite Mathematics (3)
  or a higher-level math course

Introductory Courses (to be taken within the first 30 credits)

• IFSM 201 Concepts and Applications of Information Technology (3)
  or CMST 303 Advanced Application Software
• PHIL 140 Contemporary Moral Issues (3)
  or ENGL 240 Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama or other arts and humanities course
• Both BIOL 101 Concepts of Biology (3)
  and BIOL 102 Laboratory in Biology (1)
  or BIOL 103 Introduction to Biology or other biological and physical sciences lecture and laboratory course(s)
• CMIS 111 Social Networking and Cybersecurity Best Practices (3)
  or other interdisciplinary issues/computing course
• WRTG 291 Research Writing (3)
  or other communications/writing course
• CMIT 202 Fundamentals of Computer Troubleshooting (3)
• GVPT 170 American Government (3)
  or other behavioral and social sciences course

Foundation Courses (to be taken within the first 60 credits)

• CMIT 265 Fundamentals of Networking (3)
• PSYC 100 Introduction to Psychology (3)
  or SOCY 100 Introduction to Sociology or other behavioral and social sciences course (discipline must differ from first)
• NSCI 100 Introduction to Physical Science (3)
  or ASTR 100 Introduction to Astronomy or other biological and physical sciences lecture course
• HIST 142 Western Civilization II (3)
  or HIST 157 History of the United States Since 1865 or other arts and humanities/historical perspective course (discipline must differ from other humanities course)
• SPCH 100 Foundations of Oral Communication (3)
  or WRTG 293 Introduction to Professional Writing or other communication, writing, or speech course

Additional Required Courses (to be taken after introductory and foundation courses)

• CMIT 320 Network Security (3)
• CMIT 350 Interconnecting Cisco Devices (3)
• CMIT 368 Windows Server Administration (3)
• WRTG 393 Advanced Technical Writing (3)
  or other communications/upper-level advanced writing course
• CMIT 364 Windows Desktop Operating Systems (3)
  or other supplemental major course
• CMIT 376 Windows Network Infrastructure (3)
  or other supplemental major course
• CMIT 377 Windows Directory Services Infrastructure (3)
  or other supplemental major course
• CMIT 378 Windows Server Applications Infrastructure (3)
  or other supplemental computing course for the major
• CMIT 471 Windows Server Enterprise Administration (3)
  or other supplemental computing course for the major

Capstone Course for Major (to be taken in the last 15 credits)

• CMIT 495 Current Trends and Projects in Computer Networks and Security (3)

Minor and/or Elective Courses (43)
(to be taken in the last 60 credits along with required major courses)

Recommended Minors

Computing or English

Recommended Electives

• IFSM 304 Ethics in Information Technology
• MATH 140 Calculus I
  or other calculus course (for students planning to go on to graduate school: students should note prerequisites)

Total credits for BS in computer networks and security: 120

• Computer Networks and Security Degree Planning Worksheet