2020-2021 Catalog

Networking (A.S.)

Associate in Science

Program Advisor: John Osthoff

413-236-4616 • josthoff@berkshirecc.edu

The Networking option of the Computer Information Systems degree program gives the student a technical understanding of computer systems and computer networking using the CISCO® standard. The curriculum provides students with extensive course work in computer science and networking. This program is designed for students planning either to enter the workforce or to transfer to a baccalaureate institution for further study. To complete most computer assignments, students will need to use either BCC’s computer laboratory or an off-campus com- puter. After completion of the program, students may become CISCO® Certified. A related major at the baccalaureate level is computer science.

Expected Outcomes

Graduates of this program should be able to:

  • Apply computer and networking methods, procedures and principles, and use equipment and software for the purpose of installing, troubleshooting and maintaining LANs (local area networks) WANs, (wide area networks) and Wireless Networks;
  • Apply fundamental concepts of programming languages and software development to solve a diverse array of problems and recognize these concepts in different languages;
  • Work effectively with others to design, develop and troubleshoot enterprise networks;
  • Communicate clearly, accurately and succinctly through written and verbal means;
  • Apply technical concepts and principles to solve practical problems;
  • Analyze and develop a plan to diagnose and solve technical networking problems;
  • Act responsibly with integrity, self-confidence, and professionalism; and
  • Apply critical thinking to evaluate alternative solutions in order to solve technical problems.

Graduation Requirements

To earn a degree in this program, a student must complete all program and general education credits, plus the following Additional Requirements.

Program Courses

CIS-102Fundamental Computer Literacy

4

CIS-110IT Essentials

4

CIS-124C++ Programming I

4

CIS-125C++ Programming II

4

CIS-155Web Development

3

CIS-180Introduction to Networks

4

CIS-181Switching, Routing, & Wireless Essentials

4

CIS-231Computer Science I with Java

4

CIS-240Scaling Networks

4

CIS-241Connecting Networks

4

CIS-256Network Security

4

-
Free Elective

1

Total Credit Hours:44

General Education Courses

COM-
Communication

3

ENG-
English Composition/Writing

6

MAT-123Elementary Statistics

3

MAT-
Mathematics

3

-
Behavioral & Social Science

3

-
Humanities & Fine Arts

3

Total Credit Hours:21

MAT Mathematics : See footnote 1

Additional Requirements

Core Competencies Portfolio 4 items
FORUM 4 units
Health/Fitness 30 hours

Minimum Cumulative Average

Overall 2.000
All CIS Courses 2.000

Suggested Pathway to Graduation

The following is a suggestion for completing this program in two years. The actual time needed to complete the program will vary according to each student’s individual needs.

First Semester

CIS-102Fundamental Computer Literacy

4

CIS-124C++ Programming I

4

CIS-110IT Essentials

4

ENG-
English Composition/Writing

3

MAT-
Mathematics

3

Total Credit Hours:18

Second Semester

CIS-125C++ Programming II

4

CIS-180Introduction to Networks

4

CIS-181Switching, Routing, & Wireless Essentials

4

ENG-
English Composition/Writing

3

-
Humanities & Fine Arts

3

Total Credit Hours:18

Third Semester

CIS-155Web Development

3

CIS-231Computer Science I with Java

4

CIS-240Scaling Networks

4

CIS-241Connecting Networks

4

Total Credit Hours:15

Fourth Semester

CIS-256Network Security

4

-
Free Elective

1

COM-
Communication

3

MAT-123Elementary Statistics

3

-
Behavioral & Social Science

3

Total Credit Hours:14

Footnotes

  1. MAT requires MAT-102 or higher to meet program requirements.

Note

A minimum of three CIS courses must be taken in the five years prior to graduation.