IT Network Specialist

Program Overview

The IT Network and Systems Administration Program provides comprehensive training in computer networking, systems administration, and IT support. The program is designed to prepare students with practical, job-ready skills required to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot networked systems in business environments.

Instruction is delivered through a structured combination of classroom lecture and extensive hands-on laboratory training. Students engage in real-world simulations and applied technical exercises to develop competencies required for entry-level employment in the IT field.

See Required Course

(CIP Code: 11.0901)
Tuition: $9050.00 Total Cost 
Monthly Tuition $1000.00 per month (9 month payment plan)
* Inquire about using the San Diego Workforce (Paid Tuition Program)
*Course offered in San Diego Location Only

ITNS Start Date – April 6 through December 24, 2026 Apply Now
ITNS Start Date – July 6 through April 22, 2027 Apply Now
ITNS Start Date – October 5 through June 24, 2027 Apply Now
Program Structure

Program Length: 36 Weeks (9 Months)

Total Clock Hours:
– 1296 Hours
– 324 Lecture Hours
– 972 Lab / Homework / Practical Training Hours

All laboratory and practical training hours are structured, supervised, and required components of the program. These hours are not self-paced and are monitored by instructional staff.

Weekly Schedule: 36 hours per week

  • 9 hours instructor-led lecture
  • 27 hours supervised lab and practical training
  • Delivery Method: In-person, instructor-led

* F-1 eligibility for the IT Network Specialist Certificate is determined through SEVP approval and institutional I-17 listing. Prospective international students should consult admissions for current status.

Program Objectives

Students will be able to:

  • Configure and troubleshoot network devices including routers and switches

  • Install and manage operating systems in networked environments

  • Administer users, groups, and system resources

  • Implement basic network security controls

  • Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues

  • Perform IT support tasks in business environments

Learning Outcomes:

  • Demonstrate foundational understanding of network infrastructure concepts, protocols, and systems.

  • Explain key principles of cybersecurity theory and applied risk mitigation frameworks.

  • Apply analytical skills to solve structured network problems using documented methods.

  • Evaluate technical information and academic sources relevant to information technology.

Student progress is assessed through written examinations, structured lab reports, faculty-graded assignments, and comprehensive capstone projects aligned with academic standards.

Related Jobs: Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy
Job Outlook and Salary:  Information Security Analysts
* On Camus Pearson Vue Testing Center

Class time:
A+ Tuesday 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Lab Schedule: 1pm to 5pm Tuesdays

Network + Wednesday 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Lab Schedule: 1pm to 5pm Wednesdays

Security + Thursday 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Lab Schedule: 1pm to 5pm Thursdays

IT Network Specialist Length of Study: 9 Months
Career Services Hours: 8am to 5pm Monday through Thursday

Graduates may pursue entry-level roles such as:

  • IT Support Technician

  • Help Desk Technician

  • Network Support Specialist

  • Junior Systems Administrator

Each session is 3 months (12 Weeks)

CompTIA A+ (Core 1 & Core 2) 3 Months 12 Credits / Tuesdays

CompTIA  A+ Core 1 & Core 2

Passing the CompTIA A+ exam demonstrates a core set of skills pertaining to information technology. CompTIA A+ certified professionals are proven problem solvers. They support today’s core technologies from security to cloud to data management and more. CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers into today’s digital world.

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ tests your ability to securely establish, maintain and troubleshoot essential networks security. Unlike other vendor-specific networking certifications, CompTIA Network+ prepares candidates to support networks on any platform. CompTIA Network+ is the only certification that covers the specific skills that network professionals need.

CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is the first security certification a candidate should earn. It establishes the core knowledge required of any cybersecurity role and provides a springboard to intermediate-level cybersecurity jobs. Security+ incorporates best practices in hands-on troubleshooting, ensuring candidates have practical security problem-solving skills.

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