Network Technology, MS

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The master of science in network technology is designed to serve the needs of students who possess baccalaureate degrees in networking technology-oriented disciplines. Students take a common set of courses and select one of four concentrations: computer networking management, digital communications technology, information security, or web technologies. The program emphasizes advanced applications in computer networking such as network infrastructure management, networked systems design, network security, and technical problem solving in technology-driven organizations.

The master of science in network technology is a part of a nationally recognized set of programs designated as professional science master’s (PSM) programs. The PSM program’s innovative approach encourages graduate students to pursue advanced training while simultaneously developing workplace skills that are highly valued by employers today. Graduate students who complete the practicum option for degree completion will have the opportunity to incorporate industry-relevant, problem-solving activities into their studies alongside mentors in the field. In addition to receiving a master of science degree in network technology, graduate students completing the practicum option will also receive a professional science master’s designation on their transcripts.

A minimum of 30 s.h. is required as follows:

1. Common core - 15 s. h.:

2. Concentrations (Choose one) - 12 s.h.

Computer Networking Management

Courses in this concentration emphasize advanced technologies used in the design, implementation, administration, monitoring, optimization, and maintenance of data communication and computer networking systems in industry.

Computer Networking Management:

Digital Communications Technology

Courses in this concentration emphasize a broad understanding of communication theory and practice in the transmission of digital data, including signal generation, conditioning, transmission, error detection and correction, and the underlying technologies used to retrieve, process, store, and analyze data in organizations.

Digital Communications Technology:

Information Security

Courses in this concentration prepare students to design, deploy, manage, and apply techniques of securing and protecting the integrity and availability of information systems and communication networks in governmental, private, and non-profit organizations.

Information Security:

Web Technologies

Courses in this concentration prepare students to design, analyze, configure, implement, and operate web services, computer networks, multimedia objects, data storage systems, and interactive web components for governmental, private, and non-profit organizations.

Web Technologies:

3. Options (Choose one of the following.) - 3-6 s.h.

Thesis option - 3 s.h.:

The student writes a thesis and presents a seminar based on the thesis research. The thesis proposal and the subsequent thesis must be approved by the student’s advisor and the committee composed of three technology systems faculty members.

ICTN 7000 - Thesis

Practicum option - 3 s.h.:

The student writes a practicum report and presents a seminar based on the report. The practicum project proposal and the subsequent report must be approved by the student’s advisor and the committee composed of three technology systems faculty members.

ICTN 6900 - Practicum

Non-thesis option - 6 s.h.:

The student’s advisor, the graduate program director, and the chairperson must approve the electives and student’s course of study.