Is a Computer Networking Certificate Worth It?

Networking involves developing and maintaining these connections in a way that facilitates both security and functionality. To do this, computer networking systems use a variety of different tools. In fact, chances are that you've already performed a basic version of computer networking. If you've ever set up a Wi-Fi network in your home or even connected several gaming consoles together for a local area network (LAN) party, you've completed a form of computer networking. When learning the basics, it may be helpful to think of professional computer networking as a more complex version of these simple networks.

An undergraduate certificate in computer networking can offer you different opportunities to pursue if you wish to have a career in the technology field. In fact, there are several different jobs that you may be prepared to pursue for once you have an undergraduate certificate like DeVry’s Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials. You may also consider furthering your education at DeVry by earning a Bachelor's Degree in Network Communications Management to increase the range of positions for which you may be prepared to pursue.

A certificate in computer networking is an undergraduate-level credential that can help you get started within the field of networking and technology. This certificate can take less time to earn than a bachelor's degree depending on your program and schedule and can help people gain necessary skills to help pursue a career in technology.

Earning an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry can be done on your time to fit your lifestyle. This is one way to earn a credential that allows you to enter the workforce in this field so you can pursue experience within the industry. Then, you can continue on to a bachelor's degree program in the future if you so choose to work toward acquiring more specialized skills and experience.

• Computer Security Specialist: Computer security specialists work to prevent cyberattacks by building resilient networks. They ensure that the proper software is installed on the network to keep it safe and they may also work to build company protocols around access to information.
• Network and Telecommunications Manager: These managers create and deploy telecommunications equipment for a company. They determine which equipment needs to be purchased and provide recommendations for system upgrades.
• Data Communications Analyst: Data communications analysts use their knowledge of networks and telecommunications devices to analyze the efficiency of a company's setup. If a setup is deemed inefficient, they will make recommendations for improvements. They also monitor and test these systems once deployed.
• Disaster Recovery Analyst: Disaster recovery analysts develop and implement protocols, procedures and programs that ensure data can be recovered in the event of a disaster. They work in conjunction with several other IT professionals to ensure the proper implementation of what they have developed.
• Network and Communications Manager: Network and communications managers upgrade hardware and software to improve the performance of networks and systems. In many cases they manage the telecommunications equipment and servers at a company.
• Network Engineer: Network engineers manage and maintain an organization’s networks. They monitor the networks to ensure that they remain efficient, and in the case that they are deemed inefficient, recommend hardware upgrades to executive management.
• Network Security Analyst: Network security analysts design and implement security protocols within an organization. They also work to prevent service interruptions. In some cases, they analyze existing security measures and upgrade them if they are in need of improvement.

Keep in mind that some of these positions may require additional credentials on top of an undergraduate certificate. It's also worth remembering that the qualifications for similar job titles may vary from industry to industry, or even from company to company.

Yes! Certifications are awarded by a professional organization to confirm that a person has achieved a certain level of competence with a specialized tool or skillset.

A certificate is a credential that is given to a person after they complete a program at an institution of higher learning such as DeVry University.

In some instances, a certificate can help you prepare for certification exams in the same field. For instance, an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry can also help you develop the skills needed to prepare to pursue the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

At DeVry, we award certificates to those who have graduated from an undergraduate certificate program. While we do not offer certifications, we may offer reimbursements of up to $300¹ toward the cost of one certification exam attempt for qualified students.