Co-operative Education Program
Three-year Diploma Program
Fennell Campus
Start date: September
The overall objective of this program is to develop the technical skills necessary to fully manage sophisticated, multi-vendor computer network environments. Graduates will have the skill sets needed to handle the day-to-day administration, security and design responsibilities for business networks of all sizes.
In the first two years of this three year diploma program, the focus is on developing the hands on expertise needed to manage computer networks for small to medium sized organizations. Since Windows and Unix based network operating systems using TCP/IP dominate today's network environments, these systems are core elements in the program of study. After two successful years (i.e. four terms), students will have the option of graduating with a Computer Systems Technician - Network Systems diploma.
The third year of the program will be dominated by courses dealing with design and administration of complex multi-vendor networks that would be typical of today's medium to large sized business networks. Network security is the central theme for many third year courses. Students will develop the hands on skills necessary to proactively identify potential security concerns in complex networks and be able to take the steps necessary to address these concerns. After three successful years, students graduate with a Computer Systems Technology - Network Engineering and Security Analyst diploma.
Admission Requirements
Applicants should note that a background in computers is required for success in this program. Academic credit or independent learning in Windows, Microsoft Office, and the Internet including web browsers and email are essential. Applicants without this background should complete a preparatory course in computer fundamentals available through Mohawk College.
Procedure
All applications received by February 1 will be considered equally. Admission decisions will be mailed by the College starting March 31. Any vacancies will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis by applicants who apply after February 1.
Co-operative Education
The three-year program consists of six academic semesters interspersed with three semesters in the workplace. Semesters are four months long. Work terms are full-time, employer-paid positions in the computing field. The Department of Co-operative Education facilitates the development of program related job opportunities. Students qualify for these work term positions through on-campus interviews with employers.
Career Opportunities
There is a wide range of networking related career opportunities for graduates. Today, almost all companies and organizations in virtually every type of business, industry and organization make extensive use of computers. Most either have an existing network infrastructure or are planning to have one installed. The highly skilled graduates from this program are well positioned to manage the complex systems typically found in such networking environments. Graduates should find opportunities related to the administration, security, design, and support of these computer networks.
Program Recognition
Graduates and final year students are immediately eligible to be registered as Associate members of OACETT upon submission of the Graduate Application form available through the Student and Graduate Employment Office or OACETT. Additional requirements to become fully certified (work experience, the OACETT Professional Practice Examination, peer references, etc.) will be requested once the application has been received. Requirements for certification are the jurisdiction of OACETT.
Job Descriptions
Graduates can find employment opportunities in such areas as network administration, internet-working design and installation, Windows/Unix platform security, security system support and development, computer information security analysis and computer help desk support. A short list of the job titles for which graduates are qualified would include Network Administrator, Unix/Linux Administrator, Windows Administrator, Security Analyst, Security Administrator, Network Analyst, Network Design Specialist, IT Support Specialist, Website Administrator and Help Desk Support.