Description Outline Course Descriptions
* Professional
Profile
* Time Required
* Weekly Timetable
* Program Goals
* Individual profile for this career
* Prerequisites
* Special Features
Professional
Profile
Computer Networks Engineering Technologists are "systems people".
Computer networks such as LANs and WANs are comprised of many major components
such as computer workstations, computer peripheral equipment (printers, modems,
scanners, FAX machines), and network components. These network components
such as bridges, routers, switches and associated cabling provide for the
interconnection of the computer workstations and associated peripheral equipment.
All of these components are "systems" that have already been designed
and manufactured. Typically, the role of the Computer Networks Engineering
Technologist is to use his/her advanced technical knowledge and skill to select
the right "systems" for a particular local or wide area network.
To implement this "network system", the Computer Networks Engineering Technologist will install and configure complex network operating systems based on the system's specifications and customer requirements. They will also troubleshoot and resolve any problems that may occur. After the "network system" is up and running, they will document the work that has been done. This usually includes writing a detailed description of the network layout and specifications, and providing drawings of the system layout and interconnection.
Once "network systems" have been implemented, other Computer Networks Engineering Technologists will work to troubleshoot, manage, reconfigure, upgrade and administer the systems.
Explosive growth in the advanced wireless communications systems industry, and internet/network security administration has provided these graduates with many new opportunities.
Other opportunities exist in the industrial and manufacturing world maintaining, troubleshooting or upgrading industrial computer systems and networks, or in the development of embedded system technology for applications such as medical appliances, wireless devices or PDAs.
Time
Required
6 calendar months (after completion of Computer Networks Engineering Technician
Program).
Weekly
Timetable (approx. hrs.)
Theory Lectures, 23 hours
Laboratory, 12 hours
Optional* laboratory and tutorials, 5 hours
*students are encouraged to increase their skills and knowledge in a number
of subject areas.
Program
Goals
To prepare students for employment in Local/Wide-Area Networking (LAN/WAN),
or Internet or computer control occupations. The curriculum provides students
with the skills required to manage, plan, design, install, maintain or troubleshoot
computer systems, computer peripheral equipment, Local Area Networks and embedded
computer controlled equipment.
To graduate students who will have developed the ability to learn, who can continue to more advanced level studies and who can, keep up-to-date with new knowledge and advances in their chosen field.
To provide extensive hands-on training is provided on computer and network hardware and software systems including industry standard operating systems. The training also covers the three major network operating systems, Novell, UNIX and Windows NT/2000.
All students will be required to complete a major technical project, and a technical report, on a particular subject in the computers, Internet or networking field. This will be completed under the supervision of an advisor. The purpose of this project is to further develop the student's research, design and project management skills. It also serves to strengthen the student's knowledge and understanding of the core elements of the program. To prepare students for this project, the curriculum includes topics that cover engineering management, engineering economics and system design principles.
Individual
profile for this career
Computer Networks Engineering Technologists require an aptitude for mathematics
and physics. They must be able to work well with others since they are often
part of a team, but be able as well to work independently and take initiative
when necessary. Along with strong communication and analytical skills, the
technologist must be both adaptable and flexible. A strong interest and aptitude
for computer technology is required. Ongoing continuing education is an important
element of this occupation because of the rapid pace of technological change.
Management skills are a necessity.
Prerequisites
Graduate of a Computer Networks Engineering Technician level program and considered
by the faculty of the college to have demonstrated an academic maturity sufficient
to continue successfully to a more advanced level in computer networking.
Special
Features
Students who are enrolled in the Computer Networking Engineering Technician/Technologist
(CNET) programs have free access to over 300 computer based, e-learning courses
covering a range of computer, software and networking certification subjects
areas (A+, N+, I+, CCNA, CCNP, MCSE, CNE) from companies such as Cisco, Microsoft
and Novell. Students may request permission to complete any of these courses
while in good standing at the College.