Network+ Certified Technician

Program Description

Possible career opportunities for those with a CompTIA® Network+ certification include Computer Network Support Specialist, Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Network Specialist, Network Technician, and System Administrator. This career requires continued training and education.​ Tasks associated with these positions include: back up network data; configure security settings or access permissions; use diagnostic testing software and equipment to identify and troubleshoot network or connectivity problems; install and configure networking hardware and software; perform routine maintenance or standard repairs to networking components;​ and install or repair network cables.

This program prepares students to take the CompTIA® Network+ Certification exam and for a career in computer network support.  Learn how to plan, install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network.  Develop the skills to install and configure network operating systems and network hardware.  Implement wireless networks, install and configure TCP/IP, perform diagnostic procedures to troubleshoot network malfunctions, and implement/manage network security.​

Successful candidates must be self-motivated and independent learners, have strong analytical skills, the ability to take direction, and the ability to work both independently and as a team member. ​

According to U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of computer network support specialists is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030 in Maryland. Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 700.  Additional career information may be found in Career Coach: https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

1. ​prepare to pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam;
2. perform the various responsibilities and tasks required of a network technician;
3. design and implement functional networks;
4. configure, manage, and maintain essential network devices;
5. implement network security, standards, and protocols; and
6. troubleshoot network problems.​

CCBC Pathway

Technology and Engineering Pathway - Pathways are designed to help you meet your academic and career goals by aligning related courses and programs.  Pathway students participate in a variety of activities that help explore career opportunities in their field of study.  You can meet with a CCBC advisor who help align — or realign — your educational plan with the Pathway that best supports you and your goals.

Program Credentials

CCBC Credential:  Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, and will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript). 

External Credential: Students will be prepared to take the CompTIA® Network+ certification exam.

Certifying Organization: Computing Technology Industry Association (Comp TIA®); www.comptia.org

Financial Aid and Payment Options

We offer financial aid by packaging public and private funding options to those who qualify, in select Continuing Education courses and programs. Additional opportunities for financial support include partial payment options through Nelnet Business Solutions and tuition waivers for those who qualify. Resources outside of CCBC may also be available through employer/sponsor paid tuition, the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and your local office of workforce development.

Some CE Workforce Development Certificate Programs are eligible for early high school funding through Maryland Blueprint for qualifying BCPS high school students.  Please check with your School Counseling Office to determine your eligibility for the BCPS Tuition Benefit Program. 

Program Length

1 - 2 semesters (14 – 32 weeks) not including prerequisites.

Course schedules vary each semester and may be offered face-to-face, online, or blended (a combination of the two).​

Program Requirements

Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED.

Students must be computer literate, have strong computer skills, and have access to a computer and the Internet to complete assignments.

Recommended:

A+ courses, background or certification.​

Application Process

To apply, go to www.ccbcmd.edu/apply and complete the CCBC Continuing Education Workforce Certificate program application.  An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

Open Entry – No screening or documentation required.

Prior Learning Assessment

This program has potential options for waiving select courses based on previous coursework or articulated coursework from an approved curriculum and demonstrated portfolio and/or prior occupational learning. Maximum number of program hours that may be earned from prior learning: 137.5

Program Course Sequence

Excellent attendance is required.

Prerequisites:

Course Series

Additional Information

Additional Expenses:

CompTIA Network+ Certification exam = $369

Additional Offerings:

Students pursuing certification in Network+ often enroll in the following computer network/security related classes: A+ Certification; Security+ Certification; Windows Server Certification; and VMware Certification.​

Career Coach

Research your career interests, explore live job postings, take a career assessment, discover which companies in the Baltimore region are hiring, and more.  View a brief tutorial video on how to use Career Coach at https://youtu.be/C7KpznbPYfA.  Explore career and training opportunities at https://ccbcmd.emsicc.com/.

Program Contact Information

Coordinator: Steve Ricketts | sricketts@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4442 | Catonsville BESS  100L

Administrative Assistant: TBA