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Is a Computer Networking Certificate Worth It?

By DeVry University

May 13, 2023

 

The information presented here is true and accurate as of the date of publication. DeVry’s programmatic offerings and their accreditations are subject to change. Please refer to the current academic catalog for details.
 

8 min read

This is a common question to ask yourself before enrolling in a program related to computer networking. For many people, a computer networking certificate can be worth the investment if your goal is to work toward a career in tech. An undergraduate certificate earned in computer networking can help you build essential skills that can prepare you to pursue new job opportunities. Best of all, these certificate programs may count towards an associate or bachelor's degree in the same subject area should you choose to continue your education in the future.

photo of man's hand working on a circuit board

If you've been considering a career in computer networking but haven't decided where to begin, an Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials from DeVry University might be the perfect place to get started. Learn about this field and the potential plusses of earning a certificate in computer networking as we help you answer the following questions:
 

What Is Computer Networking?

photo of man working on a computer circuit board

Computer networking is the task of setting up and maintaining the connections between technical devices. In the past, computer networking almost exclusively referred to actual computers. Since those days, an ever-growing array of connected devices has led to the expansion of the networking field. Now, networking encompasses all kinds of devices, including smartphones, security cameras, smart-home controllers and devices that utilize IoT technology.

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.

What Can I Do With a Certificate in Computer Networking?

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 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 Information Technology and Networking to increase the range of positions for which you may be prepared to pursue.

What Is a Certificate in Computer Networking?

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 an associate or bachelor's degree program in the future if you so choose to work toward acquiring more specialized skills and experience.

What Jobs Are Available in Computer Networking?

photo of office workers looking at a computer screen

Because virtually every industry makes use of computers, and because so many devices are being connected through the Internet of Things (IoT) these days, there are several different jobs that fall under the computer networking umbrella. Jobs in the computer networking field can be found across most industries, making this a versatile skillset to have. Here are some of the jobs that people may be able to pursue with a background in computer networking:

  • Computer Network Support Specialist

    These specialists provide support to customers or coworkers using their knowledge of networking. They typically work over the phone and provide remote support, but they may also work in an office alongside coworkers troubleshooting and evaluating computer network problems.

  • Computer Security Specialist

    Computer security specialists work to prevent cyberattacks by building resilient networks. They ensure that the proper software and hardware are installed on the network to keep it safe, and they may also work to build company protocols around access to information.

  • 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 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.

Is There a Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

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

A certificate is an academic credential that is given to a person after they complete an educational 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, among others.

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.

Enhance Your Education With an Undergraduate Networking Essentials Certificate from DeVry

If a career in computer networking sounds intriguing, then DeVry's Undergraduate Certificate in Networking Essentials may help you build the skills you'll need to pursue work in this field. Best of all, this program stacks into DeVry’s Associate Degree Specialization in Network Systems Administration or any specialization of a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and Networking.2

Learn more about how a certificate program at DeVry can help you find the skills you need to work toward your goals.

1Eligible programs include Bachelor in Computer Information Systems and specializations within this program including: Cyber Security Programming, Computer Forensics, Software Programming, Information Systems Security, Web Development and Administration, Database Management and Web Game Programming Specialization. Associate in Engineering Technology and Bachelor’s in Engineering Technology. Associate in Information Technology and Networking and specializations within this program including: Automation and Electronic Systems and Network Systems Administration. Associate in Information Technology and Networking with specialization in Information Systems & Programming. Bachelor’s in Information Technology and Networking and specializations within this program including: Cyber Security, Cloud Based Networking and Virtualization and Mobile and Networked Devices. Bachelor’s in Software Development and specializations within this program including: Software Design and Programming, Web and Mobile Application Development and Big Data and Analytics. Associate in Cybersecurity and Networking. Bachelor's in Cybersecurity and Networking. Speak to your Student Support Advisor for additional information.
2At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied. Future programmatic changes could impact the application of credits to a future program. Refer to the academic catalog for details.

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In New York, DeVry University operates as DeVry College of New York. DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), www.hlcommission.org. The University’s Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. DeVry is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. Arlington Campus: 1400 Crystal Dr., Ste. 120, Arlington, VA 22202. DeVry University is authorized for operation as a postsecondary educational institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, www.tn.gov/thec. Lisle Campus: 4225 Naperville Rd, Suite 400, Lisle, IL 60532. Unresolved complaints may be reported to the Illinois Board of Higher Education through the online complaint system https://complaints.ibhe.org/. View DeVry University’s complaint process   https://www.devry.edu/compliance/student-complaint-procedure.html Program availability varies by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.


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