The Computer Systems and Networking two-year program focuses on the skills, competencies and attitudes required to research, design, install and maintain computer systems and network infrastructure in a highly available and secure computing environment. The program combines theoretical and practical learning experiences in a team-oriented setting encompassing front-line computer systems, back-end server environments and the local and wide-area network infrastructure.  The Infrastructure Support industry is highly customer-oriented and requires a high level of customer interaction and professionalism.  These skills are threaded throughout the program.
 
The program includes course work, team-oriented projects, and a final 15-week work term focusing on areas of technical learning, team building, communications, interpersonal skills, ethics, and best practices. This diversity provides opportunities for the student to acquire the skills, professionalism and adaptability required to succeed in the dynamic and challenging field of Information Technology infrastructure support.
 
The capstone project will enable the student to demonstrate the application of knowledge and skills developed throughout the program by performing an in-depth study of a problem, design, or technological application and fully documenting and presenting the findings.
 
OBJECTIVES
The aim of the Computer Systems and Networking program is to graduate a student with:

The theoretical and practical skills in information technology infrastructure support. This will enable her/him to:
 
1.         provide computer technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users
2.         install, modify and repair computer hardware and software
3.         support local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), network segments, and Internet and intranet systems
4.         design an organization’s computer system in which all of the components including computers, the network, and 5.         plan, coordinate, and implement the organization’s information security policy
6.         the skills required to interpret and effectively apply industry procedures and policies in the workplace
7.         the social, interpersonal and communication skills necessary to be a productive member of a team
8.         the self-awareness and reflective skills required to create, evaluate and modify personal growth and career plans
 
College of the North Atlantic is a Cisco Networking Academy.  Students have the opportunity to complete courses in the Academy program which provide a strong foundation in computer networking knowledge and skills utilizing the equipment of the industry's leading provider.  As well, College of the North Atlantic is the only accredited Cisco Academy Instructor Training Center in Atlantic Canada.
 
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Given the presence of computer systems and networks in all industries, Computer Systems and Networking graduates may find employment in both the private and public sectors.
 
Graduates of the program will be able to fill roles in industry such as:
Computer Support Specialist
Network Specialist
Computer Support Technician
LAN Team Member
I.T. Support Technician
Help Desk Technician
Server Support Analyst/Technician
Help Desk Analyst
Technology Support Analyst
 
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility for admission to Computer Systems and Networking program requires the applicant to meet one of the following four academic criteria: 

1.  High School
Provincial High School Graduation Certificate with a 60% overall average in the following (or equivalent):               Advanced:  2200, 3200 (50% minimum in each course)
              Academic:  2201 (50% minimum), 3201 (60% minimum)          Math Fundamentals: MA1040, MA1041
3.  Adult Basic Education (ABE)
Adult Basic Education (Level III) Graduation with Business-Related College Profile including the following courses (or equivalent):           ii. Mathematics 1101A, 1101B, 1101C, 2101A, 2101B, 2101C, 3101A, 3101B, 3101C
Applicants with Adult Basic Education (Level III) Graduation with a different profile may be eligible for admission to the program provided the appropriate selection of courses including those outlined above have been completed.
4.   Mature Student Requirements
Applicants who do not meet the educational prerequisites for this program, are 19 years of age or older, and have been out of school for at least one year may be considered on an individual basis under the Mature Student Requirements; for more information regarding the Mature Student Requirements please refer to Procedure AC-102-PR Admission.