Computer Networking and Information Technology

Students majoring in Computer Networking and Information Technology (CNIT) will be required to gain expertise in designing, implementing and maintaining local area and wide area network systems from industry leaders; application development and web designing using .NET,VBScript, and languages such as VB.NET, C, C++; databases; system administration in Windows Server/Professional, UNIX/Linux, and IBM environment.

The CNIT specialization is intended to produce skilled professionals with depth in theoretical and practical applications in computer networks and the general information technology area to permit analysis, design, and maintenance of networks, related applications and technologies. Certification with external bodies such as, Microsoft, and Cisco is required throughout the program to ensure industry level standard of competence. At least two semesters of practical work experience in co-ops or internships are expected before graduation.

The CNIT curriculum program in the Department of Advanced Technologies is a rigorous set of courses aimed at producing high quality engineers and technicians capable of facing challenges of the real world. Internships and Co-ops will be required and provided during the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters for the students to have practical experiences required by the industry.

Certification: Certification exams are required at the end of the sophomore year, and before the last semester prior to graduation.

All students completing degree programs in the department are expected to pursue graduate studies in a cognate area. Some will enter graduate school immediately; others will work full-time while pursuing graduate studies part-time.

Computer Networking and Information Technology majors will work in diverse industrial and governmental environments which will require critical knowledge, skills, and abilities. The information technology faculty and its advisory council encourage computer networks, information systems, integrated manufacturing, GIS & remote sensing, energy and power systems, and computer science as priority areas. Modern industrial production operations will require networking professionals to run the array of information technologies which are the key infrastructure supporting their commerce. If you need additional diversification of your program of study, your advisor will recommend a course from the list of technology course descriptions in the Description of Courses section of this catalog.