Cisco Network Administrator

Program Description

Cisco network administrators focus on the day-to-day management and maintenance of an organization’s network infrastructure that includes Cisco devices, ensuring their optimal performance, security and availability. They monitor network performance, troubleshoot connectivity issues, manage user access, implement network policies and procedures, and manage backup systems for the network. Cisco network administrators must have a thorough understanding of switches, routers and networked communications. If you are interested in working with the day-to-day operations of computer networks, a career as a Cisco network administrator could be your next move.

Job titles related to Cisco network administrators include information network associate, network specialist, network support engineer, and information technology (IT) specialist.

This program prepares students to take the CompTIA® A+ and Cisco Certified Network Association (CCNA) certification exams and a career as a Cisco network administrator. Students learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot PCs, mobile devices and networks as well as the theory, principles, technologies, and operations of computer networking. Students will also learn about architecture, components, and operations of routers and switches including how to configure them for basic functionality and security, and to troubleshoot common issues.

Successful candidates must be self-driven, an analytical thinker, and a problem solver as well as have exceptional planning and project management skills and can work both independently and as a team member. This career requires continued training and education.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow 9% from 2022 to 2032 in Maryland. Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 1,180. The salary range in Maryland is $64,930 - $169,240 with a median wage of $107,690. Additional career information may be found in Career Coach: https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/

Program Objectives

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:
1. prepare to pass the CompTIA® A+ and Cisco CCNA certification exams;
2. perform the various responsibilities and tasks required for a Cisco network administrator;
3. install, configure, and maintain an organizations LAN, WAN, data communications network, and physical and virtual servers;
4. configure switches and routers with device hardening features to enhance security; and
5. implement network management protocols.

CCBC Pathway & Track

Technology and Engineering Pathway: Programming Track - 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 sit for the CompTIA® A+ and the Cisco CCNA exams.

Certifying Organization:

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA®) - www.comptia.org

Cisco Systems www.cisco.com

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

Approximately 52 weeks

Program Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Strong computer skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Access to the Internet to complete assignments

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 and recent certification training: 87.5

Program Course Sequence

Additional Information

Related Courses or Programs:
Cloud+ Certification, Security+ Certification, Linux+ Certification, Introduction to Firewalls, and Introduction to Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems

Additional Expenses:
2 CompTIA® A+ Certification exams - $506 ($253 per exam) and CCNA Certification exam = $300.

Program Contact Information

Coordinator: Katherine Walton | kwalton3@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4890| Catonsville BESS 100 L

Administrative Assistant: Sarah Faul | sfaul@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-3677| Catonsville BESS 100