Is a Computer Networking Certificate Worth It?

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 a computer networking program can help you build essential skills that can prepare you to pursue new job opportunities. Best of all, these certificate programs may count towards a bachelor's degree in the same subject area should you choose to continue your education in the future.

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?
What Can I Do with a Certificate in Computer Networking?
What is a Certificate in Computer Networking?
What Jobs are Available in Computer Networking?
Is There a Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

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What is Computer Networking?

Computer networking is the task of setting up and maintaining the connections between devices, specifically computers. 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 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.

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 a 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?

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 to troubleshoot and evaluate computer network problems.

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.

Is There a Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

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.

Enhance Your Education with an Undergraduate Networking Essentials Certificate from DeVry

If you're interested in a career in computer networking, 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 Networking².

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

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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. Bachelor’s in Network and Communications Management. 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.