Network Administration & Security
In-demand Computer Network Security Training Taught by Industry Experts
Network Administration & Security
In-demand computer network security training taught by industry experts
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Earn Your Diploma in Network Administration & Security
Program Highlights
Welcome to our cutting-edge Network Administration & Security diploma program, where the digital landscape meets expert guidance to prepare you for a dynamic and evolving career. In an era dominated by connectivity, our 12-month diploma program offers a comprehensive and hands-on approach to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel as an IT network and security specialist.
Our dedicated faculty, composed of seasoned professionals and experts in the field, will guide you through the latest technologies, emerging trends, and best practices, ensuring that you graduate with the expertise to safeguard critical information assets and manage networks with confidence. This 12-month diploma program blends theory with real-world applications giving you experience and knowledge in:
- Linux Operating Systems including DNS, mail servers, DHCP, FTP, NFS, and NIS
- Networking with Cisco Technologies
- Wireless technology and security including LANs, WANs, and VLANs
- Best practice, and design decisions for CompTIA Security + certification
- Microsoft platform administration including PowerShell, Exchange, Active Directory, and Azure
- Server software, including Apache, Samba, and MySQL
- Virtualization and cloud computing
- Encryption technology (cryptographic algorithms, authentication, non-repudiation, and access control)
- Ethical hacking (malicious software, security attacks, OS vulnerabilities, and network protection)
- AWS (Amazon Web Services) foundations and security
Become an IT Security Specialist
Secure Your Future Career
You want the best cyber security specialist course. Here’s what our program will do for you:
Industry Connections
Security professionals as your Instructors and mentors.
Let’s Get You Working!
Well-rounded, focused curriculum to get you successfully working as quickly as possible.
Education at Your Fingertips
Earn your diploma online from the comfort of your home.
Top Tech
The latest technology, techniques and curriculum.
Start Your Career as a Security Specialist
Where Our Award-Winning Alumni are Working
When you’re backed by exceptional curriculum and an education team focused on your success and individuality, the future of employment is bright. Here are just a few organizations where our alumni have been thriving.
Alumni Feature
Experience the CAT Difference
Why the Best Choose Us
We understand that choosing a post-secondary school is a big decision that usually involves input from some of the most important people in your life. Tuition considerations, support after graduation and key industry connections – these are all part of choosing the best information security analyst school for you.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll be happy you chose College for Arts and Technology:
Hands-on, employment-focused education.
Employment-focused programs delivering the soft skills you need for lasting career success and hands-on experience with the latest, industry-standard technology. Your career starts here!
Personalized support from start to finish.
Financial guidance? We’ve got you covered. Career advice after graduation? We wouldn’t have it any other way. You’re more than a student number to us. We create a personalized experience that you won’t get anywhere else.
More one-on-one time with your Instructors and mentors.
Small class sizes mean you get more facetime and critical feedback from your education team, to achieve real growth and success.
Quality you can fact-check.
College for Arts and Technology holds a full designation through Education Quality Assurance and the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit. You’ll only get the best at College for Arts and Technology.
Department Head
John Vu
John Vu is a passionate and experienced IT professional who has built his international career through positions with German, US, and Canadian-based companies. He is a solution-driven technical leader with years of success transforming IT infrastructures, processes, and integrating new technologies to improve efficiency, productivity, and cost savings. Throughout his career, he has been involved with IT infrastructure from start-ups to top Fortune 500 companies. His experience covers a variety of domains including telecommunication, IT networks and infrastructure, Cloud computing, systems hardware and software, and Network Security
With his broad experience in technology along with his dedication to projects, John has helped many companies deliver excellent value to their customers, internal as well as external. John thrives on creating new solutions with the basics and thinking out of the box.
A few of his hobbies are soccer, tennis, hiking, music, photography, and volunteering.
Quarter Descriptions
Here’s How You’ll Build Your Network Administration & Security Skills
Quarter 1
The first quarter of the program begins with a foundation in networking fundamentals, including IP addressing, network models, and virtualization. Students learn to manage and operate data centers, essential for aspiring network administrators and IT professionals. The Linux course focuses on installation, configuration, and effective end-user skills, emphasizing navigation and troubleshooting on Linux machines. The semester also includes a hands-on project-based exploration of LANs, WANs, VLANs, routing protocols, and network address translations using Cisco IOS-based equipment.
Quarter 2
In the second quarter of the Network Administration and Security Program, students delve into Active Directory and Network Infrastructure Administration, gaining expertise in Microsoft’s foundational environment. The course covers in-depth Active Directory concepts, server management, network policies, high availability, and infrastructure services like DHCP and DNS. A Python programming course introduces coding basics, laying a foundation for scripting. Network Scripting Essentials focuses on Windows PowerShell, providing practical examples for automated administration of network tasks. Lastly, Virtualization and Cloud Computing offer hands-on experience in designing and maintaining virtualization environments, utilizing OpenStack, and exploring the AWS cloud management leader. The semester integrates theory, scripting, and practical applications for a comprehensive skill set.
Quarter 3
In the third quarter of the Network Administration and Security Program, students focus on Computing Security Architecture, exploring materials aligned with the vendor-neutral Security+ certification. The wireless networking course introduces concepts and secure implementation of enterprise-level wireless networks. AWS Cloud Operations equips students with skills to manage cloud infrastructure using Amazon Web Services, crucial in today’s evolving IT landscape. Application Infrastructure and Enterprise Administration delve into network architecture design, emphasizing planning for server roles, security, routing, remote access, and disaster recovery. The Enterprise Administration component provides hands-on experience in implementing security for Windows-based networks, addressing security challenges in network infrastructure, web services, and system updates.
Quarter 4
In the fourth quarter of the Network Administration and Security Program, students delve into Encryption, Public Key Infrastructure Architecture, and Administration. This course provides practical knowledge of encryption technology, covering cryptographic algorithms, confidentiality, integrity, authentication, and cryptographic standards. Public key infrastructure concepts, including certificates and trust models, are explored through hands-on projects. The AWS Cloud Security Foundations course focuses on securing cloud infrastructure within Amazon Web Services, addressing the crucial aspects of data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Finally, Hands-On Network Exploits, Vulnerabilities, and Penetration Testing introduces ethical hacking and security testing, preparing students to become adept security professionals in the face of evolving cyber threats.
My favourite thing is to look back at myself during the school year. To see what has changed me to be who I am today. I was given confidence through effort and truly felt accomplished.
I had a marvelous experience during my time as an International Student at College for Arts and Technology. Sometimes, students in other institutes do not get personal attention in improving their weaknesses, but at College for Arts and Technology, every staff member gives their full attention to the students and assists them with personal growth, while pushing the students to establish independent work habits. Overall, CAT’s focus on career growth …
My instructors gave me real-world advice and exercises to ensure I was prepared for the industry. Student Services has continued to support me in my career, even 4 years later! Everyone wants you to succeed!
At CAT, all courses in the NAS program are an introduction to Cisco, Microsoft and Linux technologies. They are predominantly aimed to give you a leg up on the IT industry. Before I enrolled into this program, I had no prior knowledge or experience with computers besides gaming. So, within the 1-year NAS program at CAT I went from a complete n00b to a corporate desktop support position. Within 8 …
In late October 2007 I was biking to my nowhere job and I had an epiphany. Although I had a BA under my belt, I was going nowhere in my professional life. In fact, I was a call centre agent. I knew something had to change, and after looking at the economy and what jobs would best suit me I decided I would become a computer network administrator. I checked …
I’ve always had a passion for network security and College for Arts and Technology helped turn that passion into a career. My instructors were very knowledgeable and professional. They all had real world experience that I was able to draw on to better my learning and understanding of the career I was pursuing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s Get You Answers
Do I need prior knowledge of network security and administration before applying to CAT’s Network Security & Administration program?
Prior knowledge and applied skills are always going to benefit you, however, we do not require program applicants to have any previous experience in network security or administration. Throughout this program, you’ll not only learn the in-demand skills needed to succeed, but you’ll also learn how to conduct yourself as a security professional. This focus on employability and professionalism in addition to hands-on skills, will set you apart from the competition.
For complete details on admission requirements, please reach out to one of our Network & Administration Program Advisors by completing an online inquiry form or by calling 1.866.860.2787.
Is CAT’s Network Administration & Security program accredited?
All of College for Art and Technology’s programs are backed by a designation through the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit and British Columbia’s Education Quality Assurance Program. For additional information on our designation, please visit our Designation page.
Can I work while taking this program?
Since this program is offered online, there is no need to move to Kelowna to attend. However, our programs do require a high level of focus and commitment, but working throughout any CAT program is possible. You would need flexibility from your employer in order to maintain good attendance to your classes and you may have to be comfortable giving up your “free time” outside of work and school to complete assignments.
Our Program Advisors can walk you through this decision in greater detail, providing sample schedules and answering questions, specific to your situation. Get started by completing on online inquiry form, and a Program Advisor will follow up with you.
Why should I choose to take CAT’s Network Administration & Security program over a computer science degree at a university?
We’re not here to disparage any university programs, however, we’ve seen excellent graduate employment stats from our Network Administration & Security diploma program. The focus on applied skills and techniques in our program means you’ll have the hands-on skills needed to move directly into your career after graduation. Also, as a small and nimble institution, we have the ability to quickly adapt, giving our students the benefit of the latest industry trends and technology! Generally speaking, university programs focus on theory, which can leave graduates with a deficit in hands-on skills. Our programs have a foundation in hands-on skills while still getting you the theory needed to succeed. Moreover, a computer science degree at a university is often 4 years in duration and can cost over $30,000 per year. Our Network Administration and Security program will get you job-ready in just 12 months with a total tuition coming in well under the cost of a degree program. If you’re ready to jump into this growing industry, then we’d bet you want to get working as quickly as possible, and our programs will get you there.
For a more in-depth discussion about our Network Administration & Security Program, please reach out to one of our Program Advisors by completing an online inquiry form or by calling 1.866.860.2787.
What equipment will I need for this program?
Since our Network Administration & Security program is offered as online delivery only, you will have to have your own desktop PC or laptop at home to participate. We’ve included the required specifications below:
- Intel Core i5 processor or better
- Windows 10
- Minimum 4GB Memory, 8GB recommended
- 120 GB storage or above, SSD recommended
You will also need to ensure your laptop or desktop PC has a built-in camera and microphone. If your machine does not have one built-in, you will need a headset and webcam for audio and video during your online classes. Lastly, a good internet connection is required to ensure you have no issues attending your virtual classes.
For complete details on what you’ll need to succeed in this program, complete an online inquiry form, and a Program Advisor will be in touch!
Do you offer job placements or internships?
We maintain close connections with our network security and administration industry partners. Throughout your program, you’ll have info sessions with industry guests and you will be exposed to many simulated real-world projects, and become familiar with the standard industry workflow. This early familiarity means that upon graduation, you’ll be more than ready to join the team at any organization.
After graduation, you can count on continued support from our Education and Student Services team who will share job opportunities with you and provide connections and resources to help you find a placement you love! Our Alumni Success Stories are filled with examples of how CAT helps graduates succeed in their careers. YOU could be among these successful alumni! Ready to get started? Complete an online inquiry form, and a Program Advisor will follow up with you.
Do I have to be “good with computers” to enter this program?
Any previous experience you have using computers will certainly be an asset in our Network Administration & Security program. We do not, however, require program applicants to demonstrate any computer skills during their application process. You’ve come to us to learn and throughout your program, you’ll be exposed to all the skills, techniques, and industry knowledge needed to create a successful career for yourself.
Our Program Advisors can address this question in greater depth, providing you with Program Outlines, Course Descriptions, and more. Complete an online inquiry form to get started!
What does a day in the life of a Network Administration & Security student at CAT look like?
A day in the life of a student in the Network Administration & Security program at CAT is varied and your schedule will differ from Quarter to Quarter, so the following is only an example of a “potential” day.
Since this program is offered online only, your commute to school will be exceptionally short (aka no need to even leave your house)! You make yourself a cup of coffee, have a quick breakfast, and settle at your desk. No desk? No problem. We don’t frown upon tuning into classes from the couch, as long as you’re focused and comfortable, that’s all we ask.
Your first class of the day is Data College Operations Fundamentals and after a brief lecture from your Instructor, you’re given time to work on an ongoing project: exploring the physical and logical components of data center infrastructure. You really feel like you’ve been learning a lot and your brain is full of plans for the future!
Lunchtime! All that brain exertion from the morning has definitely left your stomach growling, so you head for the kitchen to see what you can scrounge up.
After lunch, you settle back in for your last class of the day; Professional Development. Today you’re going to be diving into Personality Dimensions and starting on a self-portrait assignment. You’ll also be discussing how to present yourself professionally in future job interviews. Even though Professional Development isn’t focused on networking, security or administration, it has become one of your favorite classes. Learning the tech skills needed is what you came for, but learning how to set yourself apart from future competition is proving invaluable.
You have a free block next, so you switch gears and work on a homework assignment from your Networking with Cisco course. The assignment requires you to build a virtual network, connecting multiple locations of a singular company. You’re making good progress and are looking forward to turning in your assignment next week.
That’s it for today! You plan to spend your evening working a bit more on an upcoming assignment for your Encryption, Public Key Infrastructure Architecture and Administration course. The goal is to research ransomware attacks, find the threats and vulnerabilities, and write documentation for disaster recovery in the event of an attack.
And because you like some balance in your life, you turn off your screens and make time to get outside and enjoy the remainder of the day. Don’t worry, there will still be time for some COD later tonight…
Let’s do this again tomorrow, shall we? New day, new classes, new opportunities.
If you can see yourself living this life, complete an inquiry form to take your first step!
Will I receive industry-recognized certification from this program? (ie. Cisco, Microsoft and CompTIA)
Industry and vendor certifications are an important part of your toolkit as you move into your career. Though these certifications are not included in the curriculum of our program, upon graduation, you will have the knowledge and eligibility to write up to 5 certifications for extra accreditation. You can write these certification exams at any time after the successful completion of our program. These exams include Cisco, Microsoft and CompTIA and as an added bonus, if you successfully pass these certifications, we’ll reimburse you for the cost of taking the exams!
For complete details, please inquire with a Network Administration & Security Program Advisor by completing our online inquiry form or by calling 1.866.860.2787.
Financial Aid For The Diploma in Network Administration & Security
The Financial Guidance and
Support You Need
You have options available to you when it comes to financing your education with College for Arts and Technology. Our Finance team can answer any questions you may have on payment plans, bursaries and grants, and student loans. We believe in empowering people through education and proudly offer the support and guidance you need to ensure finances are not a barrier on your path to higher learning.