Cisco Networking Specialist
Associate in Applied Science
This degree prepares you for careers in computer networking through education and training on real-world networking equipment by specializing in areas of cabling, network design, security concepts, core routing and switching technologies, as well as telephony and wireless technologies.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
The program offers real-world, hands-on labs using physical enterprise-level equipment, with access to extensive tools designed to help students reinforce complex concepts and configurations through simulation, visualization, and collaboration capabilities outside of the classroom.
Admissions Office
The program is aligned to several highly sought-after Cisco certifications including the CCNA and the CCNP.
Students have the opportunity to showcase their knowledge through hands-on events like SkillsUSA and Cisco All-Academy Day.
Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Architect, LAN Technician, Network Technician, Help Desk Technician, Bench Technician, Security Analyst, Network Analyst, Technical Support Engineer
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
5 Semesters
62 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,610
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
15 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
One of the greatest rewards for us is that our former students are now in positions to hire our current students.
Kim Hawthorne, CCNA, CCAI, Professor – Business, Legal & Information Systems
How Do I Get Into the Cisco Networking Specialist Program?
Get your geek on with the Cisco Networking Specialist Associate in Applied Science degree. Talk to an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- Coding, math, and science classes are beneficial for a career in computer networking.
- Participation on robotics teams or in STEM clubs is encouraged.
What Can I Expect As A Cisco Networking Specialist Student?
- Certification training for the Professional-level or Enterprise-level Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) that further develops networking skills.
- Program is career-focused and certification-aligned, aimed at helping students prepare for computer networking opportunities.
- Graduates of the program go to work at Cisco, Caterpillar, State Farm, RLI, ATS, Pearl Technologies, Pekin Insurance, OSF, UnityPoint Health, Rivian
- Graduates have transferred to Illinois State University, Western Governors University, Bradley University, University of Illinois, Eastern Illinois University, and Western Illinois University.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
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What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
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What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.