Networking Specialist
settingsNetworking professionals help organizations keep their computers and networks running securely and play a critical role for most businesses given the abundance of technology used in everyday tasks.
Overview
Networking professionals are essential to keeping organizations connected, secure, and running smoothly in today’s technology-driven world. From troubleshooting systems to protecting networks, they play a vital role in nearly every industry.
In OFTC’s Networking Specialist program, students build real-world skills through hands-on training, including:
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Assembling and configuring computers
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Working with multiple operating systems
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Terminating and testing network cabling
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Managing network devices and infrastructure
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Implementing security technologies and policies
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Exploring systems development and project management techniques
Programs in the Networking department can be completed in 2 to 5 semesters.
Programs
CompTIA A+ Certified Preparation Technical Certificate of Credit
Networking Specialist
Certificate of Credit
1 Semester
The CompTIA A+ Certified Technician Preparation technical certificate of credit program is designed to provide computer users with the basic entry-level skills working toward CompTIA A+ certification. Earning CompTIA A+ certification shows that the individual possesses the knowledge, technical skills and customer relations skills essential for working as a successful entry-level computer service technician.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
CompTIA A+ Certified Technician Preparation Technical Certificate of Credit
Networking Specialist
Certificate of Credit
2 Semesters
The CompTIA A+ Certified Technician Preparation technical certificate of credit program is designed to provide computer users with the skills and knowledge necessary to take the CompTIA A+ certification exam. Earning CompTIA A+ certification shows that the individual possesses the knowledge, technical skills and customer relations skills essential for working as a successful entry-level computer service technician.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Microsoft Network Administrator Technical Certificate of Credit
Networking Specialist
Certificate of Credit
2 Semesters
The Microsoft Network Administrator certificate provides training in Microsoft networking. This certificate will prepare the student for an entry-level computer networking position. Skills taught include implementation of Microsoft operating systems, implementation of Microsoft servers, and networking infrastructure. This certificate prepares the student to sit for the Microsoft Certified IP Professional (MCITP) networking exam. Hands-on labs provide students with real world simulations.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Networking Specialist Associate of Applied Science Degree
Networking Specialist
Associate of Applied Science Degree
5 Semesters
The Networking Specialist associate degree program is a sequence of courses designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts, principles, and techniques required in computer information processing. Graduates are to be competent in the general areas of humanities or fine arts, social or behavioral sciences, and natural sciences or mathematics, as well as in the technical areas of computer terminology and concepts, program design and development, and computer networking. Graduates are qualified for employment as networking specialists.
Networking Specialist Diploma
Networking Specialist
Diploma
4 Semesters
The Networking Specialist diploma program is a sequence of courses designed to provide students with an understanding of the concepts, principles, and techniques required in computer information processing. Graduates are to be competent in the general areas of humanities or fine arts, social or behavioral sciences, and natural sciences or mathematics, as well as in the technical areas of computer terminology and concepts, program design and development, system design and analysis, security, troubleshooting, and computer networking. Program graduates are qualified for employment as networking specialists.
The HOPE Career Grant is available to HOPE Grant-qualified students who enroll in select majors specifically aligned with industries in which there are more jobs available in Georgia than there are skilled workers to fill them. Learn More
Features
Job Stability & Security
Developing secure digital networks and protecting them is important for any company that utilizes this technology for its employees or services.
Little or No Cost to You
With the Pell Grant, Georgia’s HOPE Grant, HOPE Scholarship, and HOPE Career Grant (for students/programs who qualify) and other scholarship opportunities, many students graduate OFTC with little to no debt.
Tuition & Fees
With tuition at $107 per credit hour, total costs for Networking Specialist department programs range from:
- Tuition & Fees*: $2,262.00 – $8,255.00
- Books & Supplies*: $2,300.00
*Visit the OFTC Catalog to view each individual program and its full breakdown of tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Costs are estimated and are subject to change.
Advancement Opportunities
By gaining experience and specialized certifications, networking specialists can seamlessly advance to higher positions in a variety of industries.
Graduates of the Networking Specialist degree program are prepared for performing many different types of jobs. Graduates can find employment in the areas of computer hardware and software sales, installation and repair, computer networking, system design and analysis, security, troubleshooting, and software and technical support.
Locations
Oconee Fall Line Technical College has campuses throughout its 11-county service area. We look forward to your visit.
Online
Admissions
Our application process takes just a few minutes to complete, but we want to make sure you have the things you’ll need on hand to complete the application. We’re here to help if you have any questions!
Admissions Process
Your admissions application can be submitted online with your $25.00 non-refundable application fee and takes just a few minutes to complete.
- Submit a completed application and application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript, GED transcript, or official college transcripts, if applicable.
- Submit official entrance score on a validated assessment instrument, if applicable. Visit the OFTC Catalog Program Page to view each individual program and its required minimum scores.
- Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and HOPE applications online using OFTC School Code: 031555.
NOTE: The College may accept transfer credit for other courses according to the College’s transfer policy.
General Requirements
Be at least 16 years of age.
Additional admissions requirements unique to each program are listed on each individual program page in the OFTC Catalog.
Need More Info?
For more information about any of these programs, contact a program advisor:
Sandersville Program Advisor
Dublin Program Advisor
For additional information on admission to OFTC, contact the Office of Admissions:
Sandersville Office of Admissions
Dublin Office of Admissions
Learning Format
Students can enter a Networking Specialist program any semester — because when you are ready to start on the path to a new career and change your life, there’s no reason to wait.
Classes are offered in a variety of formats: on campus, blended, online asynchronous, and synchronous technology.
On Campus
These are courses that are taught primarily in the classroom or lab with less than 50% of instruction online. On campus courses may include lecture, labs, internships, clinicals, and other in-person instructional modalities.
Blended
Blended courses are distance learning courses with the majority of the course content, activities, and interactions occurring online but may require students to come to campus for specific assignments, activities, or events.
Online Asynchronous
These are courses that are taught fully online asynchronously with course content, activities, and interactions occurring entirely online. This delivery method does not require students to be online at a specific date or time, and students may participate in class activities and complete course assignments asynchronously. Online asynchronous courses require proctored events.
Synchronous Technology
OFTC also utilizes synchronous technology to offer courses via distance education means. The course is taught on one campus and then broadcast simultaneously to a classroom on a different campus that is monitored by a class proctor.
Flexible Schedule
We want you to get the most out of college and understand the pressure it adds to your life. At OFTC you can achieve your career goals and fit college into your lifestyle. We offer small class sizes and flexible scheduling.
Courses for our programs are offered during the morning, afternoon, and evenings – plus many are online where you can do your work any time of day.
And the personalized hands-on attention you receive in a small classroom setting allows you to get individualized support, focus and feedback from your instructors. Your instructors will get to know you and help you build the foundation and confidence needed for success in your field.
Apply TodayPaying for College
At OFTC, we realize that many students require financial assistance to achieve their academic goals. We’ll work with you to help you obtain financial aid to assist you in funding your education. We’re committed to helping you find ways to pay for this life-changing investment.
With the Pell Grant, Georgia’s HOPE Grant, HOPE Scholarship, and HOPE Career Grant (for students/programs who qualify) and other scholarship opportunities, many students graduate OFTC with little to no debt.
Financial Aid
OFTC offers several financial aid opportunities that can help you pay for college. Most students apply for federal and state aid, including the Pell Grant, HOPE Scholarship & Grant, and HOPE Career Grant.
OFTC students can also apply for scholarships through the OFTC Foundation and various businesses and civic-sponsored organizations.
Contact the Office of Financial Aid or visit OFTC’s Financial Aid web page to learn more about grants, scholarships and Federal Work Study to help fund your education.
Sandersville
Dublin
Georgia awarded over $934 million in scholarships in AY24
of OFTC students have some form of scholarship in AY24
OFTC students received over $8.4 million in financial assistance in FY25
More than 75% of OFTC students received some sort of Financial Aid in AY24
Contact
Sandersville
Dublin
Tuition & Fees
With tuition at $107 per credit hour, total costs for Networking Specialist department programs range from:
- Tuition & Fees*: $2,262.00 – $8,255.00
- Books & Supplies*: $2,300.00
*Visit the OFTC Catalog to view each individual program and its full breakdown of tuition, fees, books, and supplies. A budgeted cost of attendance is also available. Costs are estimated and are subject to change.
New Price Calculator
You can also use the Net Price Calculator to get estimated net price information based on what similar students paid in a previous year.
Career Outlook
Network specialists keep networks running smoothly by monitoring performance, security, and troubleshooting issues. This field offers strong growth and earning potential.
BLS.GOV
Network or Computer Support Specialist
- 2024 Median Annual Pay: $61,550
- Job Outlook: 6% growth through 2033
What does this mean to you?
Networking specialists enjoy strong career prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities to advance across a variety of industries.
Learn More
job placement rate for OFTC graduates within the graduation year (AY23)
in-field job placement rate for OFTC graduates within the graduation year (AY23)
of OFTC students enrolled are First Generation college students (AY24)
Program Benefits
Skills Learned
- Test and evaluate existing network systems
- Perform regular maintenance to ensure that networks operate correctly
- Troubleshoot local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Internet systems
Job Titles
- Computer network support specialists
- Computer hardware and software sales
- Installation and repair technician
- System design and analysis
- Security
- Troubleshooting
- Software and technical support
Diverse Settings
- Computer systems design and related services
- Telecommunications
- Finance and insurance
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Data processing, hosting, and related services
"The Networking Specialist program is a great way to jump-start your career in information technology. Our curriculum is designed around industry-recognized competency exams such as CompTIA's A+, Security+ and Network+ exams. Whether attending classes online or in person, students are tasked with completing virtual labs that help to ensure students are prepared for performing at a high level as a new hire within the industry."