An undergraduate certificate in computer networking can supplement a bachelor's degree or help you build knowledge and experience in this in-demand field.
Perfect for those who want to work as network administrators for business, government, or nonprofit organizations, the undergraduate certificate program in computer networking at UMGC can provide you with hands-on training in state-of-the-art computer technology.
These program requirements are for students who enroll in the 2019–2020 academic year. For prior year academic requirements, visit the catalog archive in the Current Students section.
About the Computer Networking Undergraduate Certificate
Through the computer networking certificate program, you'll learn about the fundamental aspects of computer troubleshooting, networking, network security, interconnected Cisco devices, and Windows server installation and configuration. Plus, you'll get a chance to choose from upper-level courses so you can tailor your degree to your career goals.
What You'll Learn
Through your coursework, you will learn how to
- Evaluate, install, configure, and maintain computer hardware components and operating systems
- Select an appropriate network design
- Assess and mitigate risk, evaluate and select technologies, and apply network security safeguards
- Configure and manage Cisco switches within multiprotocol internetworks
- Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows Server operating systems, including domain and network services
- Resolve IT system problems and meet the needs of users by applying troubleshooting methods
Coursework Examples
In past projects, students have had the opportunity to
- Configure and manage Cisco switches within multiprotocol internetworks, including VoIP, wireless network protocols, and routing protocols
- Manage and troubleshoot features of Windows Server operating systems, including Active Directory, DNS, Group Policy, Desktop Security, Remote Access, Windows Deployment, and User Accounts
- Design, develop, and write effective technical documents
Industry Certification
This program can help prepare you for the following certification exam(s):
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Linux+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Installing and Configuring Windows Server exam, part of MCSE Server Infrastructure Certification
- Other exams, depending on which upper-level electives you choose
Computer Networking Undergraduate Certificate Requirements
Our curriculum is designed with input from employers, industry experts, and scholars. You'll learn theories combined with real-world applications and practical skills you can apply on the job right away.
Required Courses
- CMIT 202
- CMIT 265
- CMIT 320
- CMIT 350
- CMIT 369
- A supporting elective chosen from any upper-level CMIT courses
Overall Certificate Requirements
- To pursue a certificate program, you must be admitted as a UMGC student.
- You are responsible for notifying UMGC of your intention to complete certificate work before completion of your last course.
- You can pursue a degree and certificate simultaneously or pursue a degree after completing the certificate, but you must apply for a certificate before you are awarded the degree.
- If you apply for your certificate after your degree has been awarded, you may be required to complete additional coursework for the certificate. Contact your academic advisor for more information.
- You may not use the same course toward completion of more than one certificate. In cases where the same course is required for two certificates, you must replace that course with an approved substitute for the second certificate.
- No more than half of the total credits for any certificate can be earned through credit by examination, Prior Learning portfolio credit, internship/Workplace Learning credit, or transfer credit from other schools.
- Certificates consisting primarily of upper-level coursework may assume prior study in that area. Check prerequisites for certificate courses. Prerequisites for certificate courses can be satisfied by coursework, credit by examination, or Prior Learning portfolio credit, under current policies for such credit.
- At least half of the total credits for any certificate must be earned through graded coursework.
- You must complete all required coursework for the certificate with a minimum grade of C (2.0) in all courses for an undergraduate certificate. Certificate courses cannot be taken pass/fail.
Career Preparation
This program is designed to help prepare you for work in network administration for corporate, government, or nonprofit organizations.
Student Clubs and Organizations
Type: Student organization
Available To: Undergraduate and Graduate
The Computing Club aims to create a dynamic environment where members can work collaboratively, share innovative ideas, enhance their career-readiness, and gain marketable experience in their respective fields.
About the Faculty
Our world-class faculty members combine academic credentials with a wealth of experience in the field.
Faculty members in this program hold or have recently held positions including
- Chief information officer
- Chief technology officer
- Network administrator
- System administrator
Our faculty work or have worked at organizations including
- Anne Arundel County Public Schools
- CSC
- Defense Cyber Crime Center
- State and federal agencies