Objectives
This three-year diploma program prepares students to fill critical positions in Networking Technology solution design, management and support. The program is designed to give students a strong understanding in troubleshooting procedures, practical knowledge in implementing various advanced networking technology solutions, implementing and managing network security measures. Students also learn more practical skills on how to implement structured cabling designs, network management and administration solutions, as well as some small business and project management skills. In preparation for careers in information technology, applicants should be aware that success in this program requires a high level of commitment and dedication, as well as a willingness to go beyond the material presented in class and in labs. This program focuses on technical aspects of advanced networking technologies, wireless technologies, administration and support components, structured cabling theory and technologies, advanced security concepts, enterprise-level *NIX and wireless technologies. An introduction to small business management and IT project management is also included in the curriculum. Some of the requirements and subject matter found in certifications such as BICSI Level 2/Technician, CompTIA's DHTI+ and Project+, Cisco CCNP, CWNA and Cisco Fundamentals of Wireless LAN, ISC2 CISSP, SANS GCIA/GCIH, and CEH are included in this program. Although actual certification is not a part of this program, students are well prepared to write several of the related certification exams. Students have access to modern computing facilities, running Windows and Linux/UNIX-based Operating System (O/S) platforms, both in labs and Access Centres, supporting a wide variety of pre-installed software. Specialized networking, Cisco, and hardware labs, along with several network-based O/S servers, are used in the program to afford students exposure and access to some of the same technologies they encounter in the real world. Licenced versions of selected Microsoft O/S and development tools are also made available to students through a departmental agreement with Microsoft (MSDNAA) for academic and home use. Current Novell Netware and SUSE Enterprise licences are also available for student use in the labs. A corporate high-bandwidth network, with both wired and wireless capabilities, provides campus-wide access to the academic resources and the Internet. The third year of the program is only offered once a year, starting in the Fall term. Students who have completed all of the course requirements for the Computer Systems Technician (0150XWO) program, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better, are eligible to apply to the three-year Computer Systems Technology (0155XWO) program. Applicants who are not flowing directly from the Computer Systems Technician (0150XWO) program OR who have not completed a qualifying version of Algonquin's Computer Systems Technician program but with similar or equivalent knowledge/experience, can apply through an Advanced Standing application to the program's Level 05.
