Program Overview

NetPrep is a series of eight courses leading to:

• two industry-recognized NACSE certifications
• two Harper College Certificates
• or an Associate in Applied Science degree

Comprehensive curriculum provides an in-depth understanding of computer networking:

• Theory
• Hardware
• Software

In today's high-tech world, the fastest growing employment opportunities require technological skills and training. Given that 60% of all new jobs created today require high level technological skills (increasing to 90% by the year 2015), the NetPrep program will help position you for continued prosperity and growth in the future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fastest growing opportunities are for MIS administrators, computer engineers and systems analysts, with over 1 million new jobs becoming available in the next 10 years. Other research shows that companies will have one network professional for every 160 to 400 users.

The Microcomputers in Business Degree at Harper College, expanded to allow for the new specialized study area of NetPrep Network Technology. The program offers a variety of levels of education and certification allowing you to incrementally increase your career and salary levels. No matter where you decide to go from your initial entry to the networking field, you can count on a fast-paced environment and exciting career path.

Upon completion of a series of four and eight courses, students will be eligible for full independent, industry-standard certification. 3Com's NetPrep is the only training program of its kind that offers such certification. It is also the only industry-sponsored program that offers vendor-neutral instruction. Upon completion of these courses, a graduating student should be prepared for a career in MIS management, or for professional network management training toward 3Com's Master of Network Science Program.

This series covers an introduction to networking, LANS, WANS and TCP/IP network architectures at the industry professional level. All students successfully completing the NACSE test will receive a NACSE Fast Track Application and framed certificate from NACSE. Students successfully completing coursework will also earn the Harper College NetPrep Network Specialist Certificate.

This is a 12-credit hour certificate program designed to familiarize a student with the basic components of Network computing. The certificate provides an introduction to the computer network career area. The student will be ready to embark on further network training or be qualified for an entry-level job as an Associate Network Specialist/Technician.

Estimated earning potential: $29,000 - $34,000 to start; $42,000 - $52,000 with five or more years experience.

Required
Course#	Course	Credit Hours
CIS 102	NetPrep Networking Fundamentals	3
CIS 107	NetPrep Local Area Networks	3
CIS 115	NetPrep Wide Area Networks	3
CIS 155	NetPrep Network Architectures	3
Total		12

This second series covers networking, LANS, WANS and TCP/IP/Network Architectures, Internet technologies, processes and protocols, Internetworking and network analysis and design at the industry professional level. All students successfully completing the NACSE test will receive a NACSE Fast Track Application and framed NACSE certificate.  After completing this certificate program, the successful student is also eligible to receive this Harper Certificate.

This is a 12-credit hour certificate program designed to provide the student with in-depth, vendor-neutral, platform-independent training to become a Network Specialist/Technician. This certificate provides students with basic knowledge for entry-level network designer and technician positions.

Estimated earning potential: $31,000 - $36,000 to start; $55,000 - $80,000 with five or more years experience

Required
Course#	Course	Credit Hours
CIS 156	NetPrep - The Internet	3
CIS 157	NetPrep Internetworking Devices and Concepts	3
CIS 158	NetPrep Protocol Analysis	3
CIS 159	NetPrep Network Analysis & Design	3
Total		12

The degree program prepares you for various positions in the field of computer information systems. Graduates of the program may find employment as network technicians or specialists.

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