Computer networks are essential to almost every organization, company, and educational institution in the country, and system administrators are responsible for the everyday operations of such networks. As companies and organizations continue to grow the way that they handle their business operations, more system administrators will be needed to keep up with the advancing technology. According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, there is a six percent projected growth for system administrators by 2026. If you are good with computers and enjoy building networks, you may want to check out how to become a system administrator. Founded in 1982, FNU is a university in South Florida, with two locations in Miami and Hialeah that is accredited to award an Associate of Science in Networking Systems Administrator (NSA) upon completion of the program. After you graduate with an AS, you will qualify to enter the workforce in an entry-level position as a system administrator.
What is A System Administrator and Where do They Work?
System administrators do many computer-related tasks, such as:
- organize, install, and support a company’s computer system
- establish and maintain local area networks (LANs), network segments, intranets, wide area networks (WANs) and additional data communication systems
- maintain computer networks and computer system security
- monitor and optimize network or system performance
- do upgrades and repairs
- train users how to properly use hardware and software
- add new users to computer networks
- update and assign security permissions on a network
- manage mobile equipment
- desktop support
- purchase new hardware
According to the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual wage for network and computer systems administrators was $81,100 in May 2017.
Note that as more companies become cloud-based, the need for system administrators that can manage mobile equipment will only increase.
System Administrators make sure data storage networks work precisely, and that employees’ individual workstations stay connected to the computer network and work properly. Also, it is common for systems administrators to manage telecommunication networks. System administrators need to be well studied in their field since they often help purchase new hardware or software for an organizations network, and they also help design and implement network models. Since system administrators are always on the move and putting out work-related fires, they also collaborate with many different IT workers, such as database administrators, computer and information systems managers, computer support specialists, and computer network architects.
What Degree Program Does FNU Offer To Get an Entry-Level Position As A System Administrator?
The Associate of Science (AS) in Networking Systems Administrator Program at FNU is a 60 credit-hour program that teaches students technical training and the basic foundation for designing, installation, support and configuration of a computer network. FNU’s Networking Systems Administrator program is designed to combine the benefits of vocational and traditional universities to give our students a quality education that they will be able to use in a booming industry for decades to come. Graduates from our program also have the expertise and knowledge to configure local and wide area networks and install Internet systems. But before students can build systems, they must be taught the fundamentals of computer connectivity, and also understand the routing protocols and concepts, and even understand JAVA programming, LAN, WAN, and wireless connectivity. Students enrolled in the Networking Systems Administrator program can expect to complete the program requirements in approximately 20 months. But if a student decides to attend school part-time, it may take longer. FNU awards an Associate of Science Degree upon completion of the program.
The core class requirements include:
- Computer Repair I (Hardware) – A+
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- Computer Repair II (Software) – A+
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- Networking Essentials ** – Network +
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- Client Operating System – MCSA
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- Active Directory Service – MCSA
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- Server Installation, Configuration and Admin. – MCSA
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- Routing Protocols and Concepts**** – CCENT/CCNA
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- LAN Switching and Wireless Networking***++ – CCENT/CCNA
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Suggested electives include LINUX, Network Security, Database Management Systems (Microsoft Access) and Visual Basic Programming I, however, we also have classes in Technology in Education, on Web Design and two levels of Java Programming.
Students will also be required to learn Cisco Associates and MOS of Microsoft Suite that includes Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. The program also includes 15 credit-hours of general education and liberal arts courses. It also offers the foundation that is necessary for a student to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program. But if they decide to enter the workforce after earning their AS, the program readies students for entry-level positions as System Administrators, Network Administrators, LAN Administrators, and Help Desk Support. After graduation, students will be exceptionally prepared to get a Networking Technician certification.
Get Your Network Systems Administrator Degree Entirely Online at FNU
At FNU, we know how hard it is for people to attend a university full-time at a physical campus. That is why our Network Systems Administrator program is also available entirely online. Our accredited online programs give our students extra flexibility that they may not be able to find in a traditional classroom setting. If you do not want to enroll in the Network Systems Administrator program entirely online, or you do not wish to enroll solely on campus, you do not have to. You can enroll in one or two courses online or vice versa.
Contact FNU Today
If you need help with registering for classes on campus or online, you can contact us today and get started with the enrollment process. You can also view our full course curriculum here. You can even talk to one of our advisors about financial aid options. Our financial aid office can assist you in filling out the necessary paperwork to determine whether or not you qualify for scholarships, federal loans, and Pell Grants. Contact FNU today!
