Program Description

The Cisco Network Operations and Security Embedded Certificate is designed to provide focused, hands-on training in enterprise network and systems support. The program emphasizes CCNA-level networking concepts, including routed and switched network operation, configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoring, along with foundational Windows Server and Active Directory administration. Students develop practical skills through lab-based instruction and performance-based assessment, preparing them to support day-to-day network operations and assist with basic security and operational monitoring in modern organizational environments.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Cisco Network Operations and Security Certificate program at Greenville Technical College is to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to support and administer enterprise network and server environments using CCNA-level networking concepts and Windows Server with Active Directory. The curriculum incorporates a web-based instructional approach with intensive hands-on labs and performance-based assessment, preparing students to support day-to-day network operations and assist with basic security monitoring in operational and SOC-supported environments.

Entrance Requirements

High school diploma or GED

Type of Program

Day, Evening, and Online

Requirements for Completion

This program requires a minimum grade of “C” in all courses.

Employment Opportunities

Graduates of the Cisco Network Operations and Security Certificate in Applied Science are prepared for entry-level network and systems support roles with a strong foundation in CCNA-level networking. Typical opportunities include network support technician, junior network administrator, and IT support specialist with networking responsibilities, as well as systems support roles involving Windows Server and Active Directory user and access management. These positions are common in industries such as healthcare, education, government, finance, and technology services, where professionals support routed and switched networks, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and assist with basic network operations and monitoring in organizational environments.

Visit our web page at https://www.gvltec.edu/academics_learning/business-computer/computer_technology/index.html

Listed below is a recommended sequence of courses. This plan is intended to be flexible and may be completed on a less-than-full-time basis, including three-quarter-time or half-time enrollment, to accommodate working professionals. Course availability and individual circumstances may affect scheduling, and not all courses are offered every semester. Students are encouraged to consult with an advisor to develop a personalized plan of study.

Plan of Study Grid

First Semester		Hours
CPT 257	Operating Systems	3
IST 220	Data Communications	3
	Total Semester Hours	6
Second Semester
CYB 110	Introduction to Cybersecurity	3
IST 201	Cisco Introduction to Networks	3
	Total Semester Hours	6
Third Semester
IST 202	Cisco Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials	3
IST 266	Internet and Firewall Security	3
	Total Semester Hours	6
Fourth Semester
IST 203	Cisco Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation	3
CYB 201	Cybersecurity Operations	3
	Total Semester Hours	6
	Total Required Credit Hours	24