Work-Based Learning Center is proud to host a Technology Job Fair on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Ada County Center Pintail Building.
Read more about Explore Exciting Opportunities at Technology Job FairNetwork and System Administration
Launch Your IT Career with Expertise in Network Design and System Security
Program Overview
Interested in a career at the forefront of technology? The Network and System Administration program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is your entry into the world of digital infrastructure. This program equips you with the expertise to manage and maintain the vital networks and systems upon which modern businesses rely. You will delve into topics such as network design, system security, and data management, gaining skills in high demand across various industries.
Our hands-on approach ensures you gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. You will work with the latest technology and software, preparing you for the challenges of a rapidly-evolving digital landscape. Whether you are looking to start a new career or advance in the field of Information Technology (IT), this program offers the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Applied Science
Advanced Technical Certificate
Intermediate Technical Certificate
Time to Complete
1 – 2 years
Primary Location
Learning Opportunities
- Network Mastery: Learn the intricacies of network design and management, becoming proficient in modern networking technologies.
- Security Skills: Develop a deep understanding of system security and data protection, crucial for safeguarding digital information.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience with cutting-edge software and hardware used in network and system administration.
- Problem-Solving Techniques: Hone your skills in troubleshooting and problem-solving, essential for maintaining reliable digital systems.
- Certification Preparation: Ready yourself for important industry certifications valued by employers including CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Administering Windows Server, and Certiport IT Specialist in Networking, Databases, and Cybersecurity.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Network and System Administration – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Network and System Administration – Advanced Technical Certificate
Network and System Administration – Intermediate Technical Certificate
Career Opportunities
Software Developers
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
30
Annual Openings*
$46.11
Hourly Median Wage*
$95,909
Annual Median Salary
50.97%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers
Install, set up, rearrange, or remove switching, distribution, routing, and dialing equipment used in central offices or headends. Service or repair telephone, cable television, Internet, and other communications equipment on customers’ property. May install communications equipment or communications wiring in buildings. Excludes “Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers” (49-9052).
26
Annual Openings*
$27.52
Hourly Median Wage*
$57,242
Annual Median Salary
28%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Postsecondary Teachers
22
Annual Openings*
$35.66
Hourly Median Wage*
$74,173
Annual Median Salary
35.75%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Install, configure, and maintain an organization’s local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212), “Computer Network Support Specialists” (15-1231), and “Computer User Support Specialists” (15-1232).
22
Annual Openings*
$36.02
Hourly Median Wage*
$74,922
Annual Median Salary
22.45%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Occupations, All Other
All computer occupations not listed separately. Excludes “Computer and Information Systems Managers” (11-3021), “Computer Hardware Engineers” (17-2061), “Electrical and Electronics Engineers” (17-2070), “Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary” (25-1021), “Special Effects Artists and Animators” (27-1014), “Graphic Designers” (27-1024), “Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars” (29-9021), and “Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers” (49-2011).
20
Annual Openings*
$29.70
Hourly Median Wage*
$61,776
Annual Median Salary
35.64%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. Excludes “Computer Occupations” (15-1211 through 15-1299).
17
Annual Openings*
$49.32
Hourly Median Wage*
$102,586
Annual Median Salary
44.06%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Information Security Analysts
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Excludes “Computer Network Architects” (15-1241).
13
Annual Openings*
$47.21
Hourly Median Wage*
$98,197
Annual Median Salary
43.72%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption. Excludes “Computer Network Architects” (15-1241) and “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).
12
Annual Openings*
$23.64
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,171
Annual Median Salary
32.63%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Network Architects
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212), “Computer Network Support Specialists” (15-1231), and “Network and Computer Systems Administrators” (15-1244).
10
Annual Openings*
$38.36
Hourly Median Wage*
$79,789
Annual Median Salary
25.7%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Programmers
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
8
Annual Openings*
$30.15
Hourly Median Wage*
$62,712
Annual Median Salary
2.09%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Database Administrators
Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases. Excludes “Information Security Analysts” (15-1212) and “Database Architects” (15-1243).
2
Annual Openings*
$36.26
Hourly Median Wage*
$75,421
Annual Median Salary
30.73%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Database Architects
Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. Excludes “Database Administrators” (15-1242).
N/A
Annual Openings*
$62.83
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,686
Annual Median Salary
N/A
Growth (2021 - 2031)*
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
N/A
Annual Openings*
$62.54
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,083
Annual Median Salary
N/A
Growth (2021 - 2031)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Network and System Administration as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Clubs
College of Western Idaho is proud to be part of Business Professionals of America (BPA), the leading Career and Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology, and other related career fields.
College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.
News
Allied Business Solutions donates $5,000 to empower Information Technology students at CWI.
Read more about Donation Empowers Information Technology StudentsThe Nagel Foundation scholarship empowers second-year career and technical education students to complete their education.
Read more about Nagel Foundation Continues Commitment to StudentsTen Career Technical Education students, nominated by their instructors, selected to receive $1,000 scholarships.
Read more about 2020 Emerging ProfessionalsPrepare for a career in the field of information technology with hands-on learning utilizing current technologies in real-world scenarios.
Read more about Networking Technology Programs Prepare Students for In-Demand CareersCongratulations to Bradley Dougal, a 2019-2020 Nagel Foundation scholarship recipient.
Read more about Education Sparks FutureCongratulations to Mindy Young, College of Western Idaho’s Faculty of Distinction for April 2019.
Read more about Faculty of Distinction—April 2019CWI swept away the competition with 37 medals at this year's SkillsUSA State Conference.
Read more about CWI SkillsUSA Wins Big at State CompetitionAda County Center hosts Super Smash Bros Wii U Tournament and Party with prizes, food and fun
Read more about First Annual CTE Super Smash Bros SmashfestCWI earned 32 top-five finishes at the 2016 Idaho Business Professionals of America Leadership Conference.
Read more about CWI Students Score Big at BPA CompetitionRequest More Information
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