2026 - 2027 Catalog
Network Systems Administration
Objective
Graduates of this program will be able to explain the basics of information technology, including the networking ecosystem and cyber security. Courses are project-based and simulate real-world experience with relevant applications and hands-on labs. Graduates will understand how to troubleshoot computer and network problems with server, desktop, laptop, mobile devices, and other computing technologies. Graduates will be able to develop a plan for mitigating risk and disaster preparedness related to computers and networks. In addition, graduates will be prepared to provide quality end-user technical support while employing resolution strategies and industry best practices. Graduates understand the importance of lifelong learning, transferable skills, and staying relevant with emerging technology and trends. This program is aligned to industry-relevant skills and certifications that are sought most by employers.
Typical Career Paths
- Network Administrator
- Systems/Network Analyst
- Information Security Specialist
- Network Technician
- Network and Operations Support Specialist
Applicants for careers in this field may be subject to pre-employment screenings such as, but not limited to, criminal background checks, and drug/or alcohol testing. Employment decisions, including whether to require background checks and other tests, are made at the discretion of the employer. Rasmussen does not pre-screen for enrollment in this program. Any prospective student must consider their history, lifestyle and future actions before enrolling in this program, and carefully consider whether their actions may prevent them from attaining employment in the field they choose to pursue. Additional requirements, such as industry-specific training may be required to obtain employment in this field.
Additional Information
The University will reimburse students to sit for up to three recommended certification exams. Reimbursements will be made only once per certification exam. Students are responsible for paying for any additional attempts.
Developmental Education Courses
| Code | Title | Quarter Credits |
| B080 | Reading and Writing Strategies | 4 |
| B087 | Practical Math | 4 |
Developmental Education courses do not count toward total program credits and are not calculated in GPA. Students must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Developmental Education courses through a Rasmussen University entrance placement exam, approved exemption based on previously completed coursework, or by passing Developmental Education courses.
Degree Requirements Summary
| General Education Credits | 46 |
| Core Credits | 44 |
| Total Associate’s Degree Credits | 90 |
General Education Courses
Lower Division
| Category | Quarter Credits |
|
English Composition
(Required course)
ENC1101
English Composition +
|
4 |
| Communication (*Required, select 1 additional course) + | 10 |
| Humanities (Select 2 courses) + | 8 |
| Math / Natural Sciences (Select 1 of the following, and 2 additional courses) + | 12 |
| Social Sciences (Select 3 courses) + | 12 |
See General Education Course Selections for details.
Core Courses
Lower Division
| Code | Title | Quarter Credits |
| CDA1330C | Operating Systems | 4 |
| CDA2725C | Systems Analysis and Design | 3 |
| CET2522C | Cisco Network Routing and Switching | 3 |
| CET2660C | Networking Security | 3 |
| CIS1308 | Logic and Troubleshooting | 4 |
| CIS1538C | Hardware and Software I | 4 |
| CIS1648C | Hardware and Software II | 4 |
| CIS1710C | Administering Windows Server | 4 |
| CIS2647C | Windows Directory Services | 4 |
| CIS2960C | Network Systems Administration Capstone | 2 |
| CNT1244C | Introduction to Networks | 3 |
| CTS2321 | Linux Administration | 3 |
| ISM2321 | Managing Information Security | 3 |
+Self-directed assessment available; see Self-Directed Assessments for details.
Loading...