Networking

Solve problems and stand out in the business world.

Learn what it takes to build and maintain enterprise-level networks and apply your skills to solve technical problems as a networking professional.

Organizations cannot remain competitive today without cutting edge computer networks. Networks facilitate communication and collaboration for both individuals and businesses on a global scale. Networks, and computer networking professionals, directly impact day-to-day business operations and allow companies to be more efficient through enhanced connectivity, security, and data management.

Because networks play such a critical role in the modern business landscape, it’s no surprise that the networking field is booming, and demand for skilled networking professionals remains constant.

Are you ready to join a fast-growing profession and make your mark on the business world? Then consider a career in networking. A career in networking can offer you:

  • Career Flexibility
  • Job Security
  • Learning Potential
  • Professional Development Opportunities

Earn the degree, technical expertise, and industry certifications you’ll need to signal to employers you have what it takes to build, maintain, and troubleshoot enterprise-level networks.

Are you interested in Networking?

At CIAT, we are here for you on your journey to success, and it starts with answering your questions. Let us connect you with the information you need to navigate your next steps.

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Is Networking right for me?

Take our career quiz to discover career paths that match your style and interests.

Growth Opportunities
Growth Opportunities

Nearly every industry now utilizes computer networks to communicate and collaborate. Networking professionals today possess highly marketable skills that are transferable across industries and organizations, giving them the access to a wide range of career and professional development opportunities.

Continuous Learning
Continuous Learning

Network professionals are rich in professional development opportunities: with the rapid development cycle of technology, there is always something new to learn to stay abreast of cutting-edge innovations.

Job Security
Job Security

As business becomes increasingly digitized, companies will rely more and more on computer networks to operate, communicate, and collaborate. Companies of all kinds will demand networking professionals to help build and maintain their enterprise network infrastructures.

Explore Networking Programs

Certificate Program

Certificate In Computer Information Systems

  • Program Length: 45 Weeks

  • Courses: 9

  • Credits: 36

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Associate's Program

AAS in Computer Information Systems

  • Program Length: 1 - 2 Years

  • Courses: 17

  • Credits: 64

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Bachelor's Program

Applied Bachelor’s Degree In Computer Information Systems

  • Program Length: 3 - 4 Years

  • Courses: 35

  • Credits: 130

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Certificate Program

Certificate as Network Technician

  • Program Length: 20 Weeks

  • Courses: 4

  • Credits: 16

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Certificate Program

Cisco Certified Network Associate

  • Program Length: 10 Weeks

  • Courses: 2

  • Credits: 8

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Networking - Frequently Asked Questions

Networking is a critical field in modern business that involves building, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks. These networks are essential for facilitating communication, collaboration, and data management across organizations. In today's digital landscape, networking professionals play a crucial role in ensuring businesses remain competitive and efficient through enhanced connectivity and security.

Deciding whether to continue your education in computer networking is an entirely individual decision that should take into account your unique background, interests, and goals. However, individuals who have strong problem-solving, analytical, and collaboration skills in addition to a desire for continued learning and professional development may be a good fit for this type of program. If you are unsure about which program path is right for you, connect with one of CIAT’s expert Admissions Advisors. Our dedicated team will work one-on-one with you to help you select a program that aligns with your unique experience and goals.

You'll gain expertise in:

  • Enterprise-level network building and maintenance
  • Network infrastructure design
  • Technical problem-solving
  • Network security
  • Connectivity management
  • Data management
  • Troubleshooting complex network issues

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2024, the median annual wage for computer network support specialists was $71,530. The highest 10% of professionals in the field can earn more than $121,920 annually, making it a financially attractive career path.

Key advantages include:

  • Career flexibility
  • Strong job security
  • Continuous learning potential
  • Abundant professional development opportunities
  • Critical role in modern business operations
  • Potential for significant career growth

Networking skills are highly versatile and in demand across multiple industries. As digital transformation continues, organizations in sectors like healthcare, finance, technology, education, and government all require skilled networking professionals to maintain their technological infrastructure.

The total cost of your program will depend on factors like program length, number of credits, and any applicable scholarships or transfer credits. Our Admissions and Financial Aid team will provide a personalized estimate based on your situation.

The first step is to connect with one of our Admissions Advisors. They'll learn about your unique goals and needs and help you determine the right program path. From there, you can quickly complete our streamlined online application, submit any required documents, and explore financial aid options - all with personalized guidance.

CIAT accepts up to 75% of eligible credits earned from previous institutions, including community colleges, technical schools, and 4-year universities. Our admissions team will evaluate your official transcripts to determine how many credits can be transferred to your desired program.

In addition to standard college coursework, we also accept credits earned through military training, industry certifications, and general education platforms like CLEP, Straighterline, and Sofia Learning. We aim to help you maximize the value of your past educational investments.

CIAT proudly offers military tuition assistance and benefits to service members in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. This includes GI Bill® benefits, Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E), VA STEM Scholarship, VA Yellow Ribbon

Have more questions? Reach out today and admissions advisor will answer any other questions you have!

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The Tech Occupation Employment Outlook

In CompTIA’s State of the Tech Workforce 2023 report, projections indicated that in the next ten years, the technology workforce will grow at a rate that’s twice as fast as the overall U.S. workforce. Digital transformations across industries will lead to increased demand for tech talent across numerous tech occupations. Employment of Network Support Specialists is projected to grow 22% over the next ten years, while the replacement rate for all occupations over that same period is expected to average around 7% annually. With demand increasing more talent is needed to offset turnover within the field.

Tech Occupation Outlook

Career Opportunities in the Networking Field

Organizations rely on networking professionals to build, maintain, and troubleshoot infrastructures that will facilitate connectivity, security, communication, and growth. While there’s a multitude of jobs across sectors, some of the more common positions include:

Entry Level:

  • Help Desk Technician
  • Computer Repair Technician
  • Network Technician

Mid Level:

  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Network Administrator
  • Systems Engineer

Senior Level:

  • Network Operations Manager
  • Chief Information Officer (CIO)
  • Network Architect
CIAT Career Services

CIAT’s dedicated Career Services department customizes support to your unique career goals.

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Earning Potential Chart

Earning Potential

Not only does the networking field offer robust job opportunities, but it also offers competitive salaries. In May 2024, the BLS estimated the median annual wage for computer network support specialists was $71,530, the highest 10% earning more than $121,920 annually.

Ready to Get Started?

Request an appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors for personalized guidance on building your education plan. You’ll be able to book an appointment instantly for a time that fits your schedule.

Enrollment Deadline - March 8th, 2025

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GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. CIAT is approved to offer VA benefits. *Financial aid is available for those who qualify. *Students are encouraged to take certification exams while actively enrolled in their Certificate or Degree program. Unlimited certification exam attempts expire 180 days after graduation. Select exams are not eligible for unlimited retakes - see certification exam policy for details. Certifications or courses may change to address industry trends or improve quality

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