Degree Programs

Overview
LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network) managers provide a variety of services, from design to administration, of an organization's local area network, which connects staff within an organization. These managers direct the network, and its related computing environment, including hardware, systems software, applications software, and all other computer-related configurations.

Computer network technicians install, configure, and troubleshoot local area and wide area networks. Their responsibilities encompass connecting the entire system of workstations, printers, and modems to the Internet, e-mail, and other application servers via fiber optic and other types of cables. These technicians must keep their knowledge current with regard to the advances being made in convergence, bandwidth, speed of data transmission, operating systems, and application servers.

Computer and information system managers, as well as network technicians, need strong communication skills. They coordinate the activities of their unit with those of other units or organizations. They confer with top executives; financial, production, marketing, and other managers; and contractors and equipment and materials suppliers.

Working Conditions
Computer network managers spend most of their time in an office. Most work at least 40 hours a week and may have to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines or solve unexpected problems. Some computer network managers may experience considerable pressure in meeting technical goals within short timeframes or tight budgets. As networks continue to expand and more work is done remotely, computer network managers have to communicate with and oversee offsite employees using modems, laptops, e-mail, and the Internet. Like other workers who sit continuously in front of a keyboard, computer network managers are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Typical Computer network technician tasks include:

1. Analyzes test data and recommends hardware or software for purchase.
2. Identifies areas of operation which need upgraded equipment, such as modems, fiber optic cables, and telephone wires.
3. Tests and evaluates hardware and software to determine efficiency, reliability, and compatibility with existing system.
4. Reads technical manuals and brochures to determine equipment which meets establishment requirements.
5. Monitors system performance.
6. Conducts survey to determine user needs.
7. Develops and writes procedures for installation, use, and solving problems of communications hardware and software

Training:
Strong technical knowledge is essential for computer network managers, who must understand and guide the work of their subordinates, yet also explain the work in non-technical terms to senior management and potential customers. Therefore, these management positions usually require work experience and formal education similar to that of other computer occupations. An Associate's degree is often required for entry level and network technician level positions. A bachelor's degree usually is required for management positions, although employers often prefer a graduate degree, especially a master's degree in business administration (MBA) with technology as a core component. This degree differs from a traditional MBA in that there is a heavy emphasis on information technology in addition to the standard business curriculum. Computer network managers must possess strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills because they are required to interact not only with their staff, but also with other people inside and outside their organization. They also must possess team skills to work on group projects and other collaborative efforts. Many community and technical colleges as well as private trainers now offer certification in vendor-specific software and hardware. As a result, employers are increasingly requiring training and certification in vendor-approved courses. An Associate degree in a related field -- electronics engineering, computer science, or telecommunications -- would also suffice for entry-level positions.

Job Outlook:
Despite the recent downturn in the economy, especially in technology-related sectors, the outlook for computer network managers remains strong. In order to remain competitive, firms will continue to install sophisticated computer networks and set up more complex Internet and intranet sites. Keeping a computer network running smoothly is essential to almost every organization. Firms will be more willing to hire managers who can accomplish that. The security of computer networks will continue to increase in importance as more business is conducted over the Internet. The security of the Nation's entire electronic infrastructure has come under renewed focus in light of recent threats. Organizations need to understand how their systems are vulnerable and how to protect their infrastructure and Internet sites from hackers, viruses, and other acts of cyber-terrorism. The emergence of "cyber-security" as a key issue facing most organizations should lead to strong growth for computer managers. Firms will increasingly hire cyber-security experts to fill key leadership roles in their information technology departments, because the integrity of their computing environment is of the utmost concern. As a result, there will be a high demand for network managers proficient in computer security issues.

Wages and Projections
Earnings for computer and information systems managers vary by specialty and level of responsibility. Median annual earnings of these managers in 2002 were $85,240. The middle 50 percent earned between $64,150 and $109,950. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $47,440, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $140,440. According to Robert Half International, average starting salaries in 2003 for high-level information technology managers ranged from $82,750 to $151,500. According to a 2003 survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, starting salary offers for those with an MBA, a technical undergraduate degree, and 1 year or less of experience averaged $54,643; for those with a master's degree in management information systems/business data processing, the starting salary averaged $43,750. In addition, computer and information systems managers, especially those at higher levels, often receive more employment-related benefits - such as expense accounts, stock option plans, and bonuses - than do non-managerial workers in their organizations.

Computer network technician Wages: (Median, Source - www.payscale.com)
OR $36K
CA $42K
WA $44K
ID $42K
MT $35K
NV $42K

Program Course Requirements for Systems Management AAS degree

Program Course Requirements for LAN Management AAS degree

Program Course Requirements for Certificate - Computer Information Systems