This two-year associate in science degree program is intended to prepare the student for jobs in business and government as introductory positions such as network control specialist, computer system specialists, or specialist network control, entry-level help desk analyst, computer technician, to name a few. A graduate of this program will be able to sit for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam, the CompTia A+ exam, the CompTia Net+ exam and other industry recognized exams depending on course selection. A graduate will have the required skills to install and configure local area networks that carry data, voice, and video communications, install, operate and maintain network services, routers, switches, and other network devices, resolve network communication problems, support and troubleshoot Personal Computers (PCs), work with a team and demonstrate desirable customer service and communication skills.

NOTE: exact skills will depend on course selection.

DVC information and communication technology students who intend to transfer must consult with a program advisor or counselor to ensure that the requirements for transfer to four-year institutions of their choice are met. Students who intend to transfer are advised to select either General Education Option 2 (IGETC) or Option 3 (CSU GE). General Education Option 1 (DVC General Education) is appropriate for students who do not intend to transfer

To earn an associate in science degree with a major in information and communication technology, students must complete each course used to meet a major requirement with a “C” grade or higher and complete general education requirements as listed in the catalog. Degree requirements can be completed by attending classes in the day, the evening, or both. Certain courses may satisfy both major and general education requirements; however, the units are only counted once.

Students completing the program will be able to...

- terminate, install, and test copper and fiber.

- troubleshoot wireless access points and connections.

- install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, operating systems, and software applications.

- identify computer components to make informed decisions when purchasing computer hardware and software.

- apply the fundamentals of good programming structure and good programming practices.

- analyze and communicate problem specifications.

- build a simple Ethernet network that includes end-devices and intermediary devices.

- identify security issues with communications, email, web, remote access, and wireless technology.

- differentiate between physical security, disaster recovery, and business continuity.

- identify current network threats and ramifications.

- troubleshoot threats and implement security methods against such threats.