During the student's sophomore and junior years, technical training will specialize in Networking and overall information technology services and processes. As with existing courses offered in the Cisco Networking Academy, the focus of these courses will be hands-on experience for students.
Through their related theory classes, Telecommunications students will complete a schedule that follows the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer's (MCSE) certification requirements. The MCSE credential is for IT professionals who analyze the business requirements and design and implement the infrastructure for business solutions based on the Microsoft Windows 7 platform and Microsoft Windows Server 2008 System. Implementation responsibilities include installing, configuring, and troubleshooting network systems.
This curriculum helps students develop the skills needed to obtain entry-level networking jobs. It provides a hands-on approach to networking education that allows students to gain practical experience early in the curriculum. Students complete engaging instructional labs that help them understand the general theory needed to build networks. The curriculum encourages students to consider additional education in IT by teaching applied skills midway through the four-course series. CCNA Discovery was designed to be delivered as an independent curriculum or integrated into broader courses of study at secondary institutions, career and technical schools, or colleges. It is for students with basic PC usage skills.
Beginning with the graduating class of 2008, students who were enrolled in Worcester Technical High School and successfully completed the Networking Academy courses designated in the articulation agreement as evidenced by the Certificate of Completion from Cisco, received up to 26 MWCC college credits (7 courses). Students are considered dual-enrolled in both institutions.
The goals of CCNA Discovery are as follows:
● Help students recognize the significant impact of networking on their lives
● Teach students how to build and support a home or small business network with Linksys equipment
● Instill a sense of awe in students and encourage them to learn more about how things work and to pursue careers in networking
● Prepare students for entry-level jobs in the industry by employing interactive and engaging instructional approaches that help them gain practical experience
● Teach students the fundamental concepts of networking
● Provide opportunities for extensive hands-on interaction with PC and networking equipment to prepare students for careers and certification exams
● Establish the relevancy and context of networking in our everyday lives