California Computer Networking Schools

We hope you find our directory of computer networking programs useful. We've also compiled some networking career information at the bottom of the page.

A   B   C   D   E   F   G   H   I   J   K   L   M   N   O   P   Q   R   S   T   U   V   W   X   Y   Z  

A

ABCO Technology Inc.

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Locations: Los Angeles, CA

  • A+ (Certificate)

Advanced College

Locations: South Gate, CA

Advanced Training

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Locations: El Cajon, CA

  • Computer Networking Technology (Diploma)

B

Brooks College

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Locations: Long Beach, CA / Sunnyvale, CA

  • Network Technology (Associate's Degree)
    The mission of the Network Technology program is to provide academic and specialized instruction to assist students in obtaining entry-level positions in the information technology industry. Network Technology students gain the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to perform entry-level tasks on IBM-compatible and Macintosh personal computers. These tasks may include set-up, configuration, upgrades, diagnosis and repair. Student become familiar with installation and upgrading of operating systems, office products and applications software.

C

California College

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Locations: San Diego, CA

  • Computer Networking & Technology (Associate's Degree)
  • Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree)
    Objectives of the program are to ensure competencies at very high levels in Programming, Network Administration, and Database Management.

California Learning Center

Locations: Anaheim, CA / Huntington Park, CA / Santa Ana, CA

Coleman College

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Locations: San Diego, CA / San Marcos, CA

  • Computer Networks (Bachelor's Degree)
    This program is designed to provide the graduate with the educational foundation for management positions in the computer network technology field. The graduate is prepared for leadership responsibilities in the planning, evaluation and supervision of computer service activities.
  • Computer Networks (Associate's Degree)
    This program is designed to provide students with the technical skills and knowledge to start a career as a PC/Network Support Technician with an emphasis in network administration. The graduate will have the ability to operate, diagnose, analyze, install, repair, administrate and maintain microcomputer operating systems.
  • Network Security (Bachelor's Degree)
    The Network Security program is designed to prepare students for careers in computer and network security and to deal with the challenging computer and network security problems facing society. The graduate will have a basic understanding of computer hardware, software, programming concepts and network administration wiht a primary emphasis on network security.

D

DeVry University

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Locations: Fremont, CA / Irvine, CA / Long Beach, CA / Pomona, CA / Elk Grove (Sacramento), CA / San Diego, CA / San Francisco, CA / West Hills, CA / Sherman Oaks, CA

  • Information Technology (Bachelor's Degree)
    IT graduates play essential roles on the business team, typically designing and implementing hardware and software solutions to business problems. They hold professional positions in such areas as client/server or Web applications development, systems analysis and network administration.
  • Network & Communications Management (Bachelor's Degree)
    DeVry's Network and Communications Management program integrates technology and business management coursework, enabling graduates to analyze communications needs, provide effective solutions and fill a critical niche in business organizations.
  • Network Systems Administration (Associate's Degree)
    The program addresses installing, configuring, securing and administering network systems comprising users, shared resources and network elements, such as routers, in local and Internet-based environments.

E

Empire College

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Locations: Santa Rosa, CA

  • Information Technology (Associate's Degree)
  • Network Administrator (Diploma)
    This program is designed to give students the ability to configure and troubleshoot computer hardware and administer and configure Novell and Microsoft networks. In addition, the program is designed to give the student experience with Network Infrastructure Administration and Active Directory Services in a theory and laboratory setting. Students are also introduced to Visio Technical Drawing and Microsoft Office. If you are interested in California network administrator courses, Empire College has you covered.
  • Network Specialist (Diploma)
    This program is designed to give students the ability to configure and troubleshoot computer hardware and administer and configure Novell and Microsoft networks. In addition, the program is designed to give the students the ability to design Windows infrastructures and active directories, work on Cisco router configuration through Cisco router training, and give them an understanding of wireless networks and network security.

F

Foothill College

Locations: Palo Alto, CA

H

Heald College

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Locations: Concord, CA / Fresno, CA / Hayward, CA / Rancho Cordova, CA / Roseville, CA / Salinas, CA / San Francisco, CA / San Jose, CA / Stockton, CA

  • Electronics Technology (Associate's Degree)
    You will take classes in electronics, math, physics, programming, computer technology, and communications. You will learn the basics of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and Internet communications systems.
  • Electronics Technology (Diploma)
    You will take classes in electronics, math, physics, programming, computer technology, and communications. You will learn the basics of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and Internet communications systems.
  • Information Technology - Network Security (Associate's Degree)
    You'll learn about networking from the ground up—from building computer cables to securing the protocols that cross those cables. Students receive a strong foundation in networking, operating systems (Windows and Linux), routing, and network security.
  • Information Technology - Network Systems Administration (Diploma)
    You'll be instructed in how to install hardware and software, troubleshoot basic programming issues, configure and maintain basic network functions, support Windows® and Unix networks, enable security protocols, create and implement databases, and configure routers.
  • Information Technology - Network Systems Administration (Associate's Degree)
    You'll be instructed in how to install hardware and software, troubleshoot basic programming issues, configure and maintain basic network functions, support Windows® and Unix networks, enable security protocols, create and implement databases, and configure routers.
  • Networking Technology - Cisco Systems (Associate's Degree)
    You will gain an overview of the industry, including the basic knowledge and skills necessary for network design and maintenance. You will also learn to configure and implement local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) router configurations, including basic router setup, routing and routed protocols, access control lists, Basic Rate ISDN, and Frame Relay configuration.
  • Networking Technology - Cisco Systems (Certificate)
    You will gain an overview of the industry, including the basic knowledge and skills necessary for network design and maintenance. You will also learn to configure and implement local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) router configurations, including basic router setup, routing and routed protocols, access control lists, Basic Rate ISDN, and Frame Relay configuration.
  • Networking Technology - Microsoft® and Cisco Systems Administration (Associate's Degree)
    You will learn about operating systems and configurations, network repair, and software installation and customization. You will also learn to configure and implement local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) router configurations, including basic router setup, routing and routed protocols, access control lists, Basic Rate ISDN, and Frame Relay configuration.
  • Networking Technology - Microsoft® and Cisco Systems Administration (Certificate)
    You will learn about operating systems and configurations, network repair, and software installation and customization. You will also learn to configure and implement local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) router configurations, including basic router setup, routing and routed protocols, access control lists, Basic Rate ISDN, and Frame Relay configuration.
  • Networking Technology - Microsoft® Windows® Systems Administration (Certificate)
    Heald's program provides a foundation to pursue certification as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE). You will learn about operating systems and configurations, network repair, and software installation and customization. You will also gain experience with local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) technology.
  • Networking Technology - Microsoft® Windows® Systems Administration (Associate's Degree)
    Heald's program provides a foundation to pursue certification as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE). You will learn about operating systems and configurations, network repair, and software installation and customization. You will also gain experience with local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) technology.

I

Institute of Technology

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Locations: Clovis, CA / Modesto, CA / Roseville, CA

  • Network Support Technician (Diploma)
  • Network System Administrator (Diploma)

ITT Technical Institute

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Locations: Anaheim, CA / Lathrop, CA / Oxnard, CA / Rancho Cordova, CA / San Bernardino, CA / San Diego, CA / Sylmar, CA / Torrance, CA / West Covina, CA / Clovis, CA / San Dimas, CA

  • Information Systems Security (Bachelor's Degree)
  • Information Technology - Computer Network Systems (Associate's Degree)

K

Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University

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Locations: Fremont, CA / Colton, CA / Irvine, CA / Pomona, CA / Elk Grove (Sacramento), CA / San Diego, CA / San Francisco, CA / San Jose, CA / Long Beach, CA

  • Network and Communications Management (Graduate Certificate)
  • Network and Communications Management (Master's Degree)

L

Laurus College

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Locations: San Luis Obispo, CA / Santa Maria, CA / Atascadero, CA

  • Computer Networking (Certificate)
    Students in this program gain an understanding of how networks actually work and how they are used in many businesses today. Students move from the basics of computer networking to advanced network issues and implementations.

M

MicroSkills

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Locations: San Diego, CA

  • Cisco (Diploma)
  • Desktop Support Technician (Diploma)
  • Network Administrator (Diploma)
  • Network Engineer (Diploma)

Mt. Sierra College

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Locations: Monrovia, CA

  • Computer Information Technology (Bachelor's Degree)
    The Computer Information Technology major covers these seven focus areas: programming, operating systems, database management, systems analysis and design, networking technologies, Internet and intranet technologies, and general education.
  • Telecommunications Technology (Bachelor's Degree)
    The Telecommunications Technology curriculum includes management of networking systems, computer networking, C++ language, Internet/intranet design, wireless technologies and project management.

MTI College

Locations: Sacramento, CA

N

Newbridge College

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Locations: Monterey Park, CA

  • Network Engineer & PC Technician (Diploma)
    On graduating you will be qualified to work as a PC Technician and a Network Support Technician and will be able to sit the industry standard “A+ Certification” and “Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer” exams, which is valued by most Employers.

S

Santa Barbara Business College

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Locations: Bakersfield, CA

  • Network Administration (Diploma)
    This program is designed to prepare students to be qualified to install, configure, manage, and maintain existing Microsoft networks. The curriculum includes peripheral interfacing, network design and administration, client/server computing, LANs management, exposure to the relationship between LANs and WANs, connectivity, network theory, system integration, and Internet languages. Upon completion, students will be prepared for emerging positions as Network Administrators or Engineers, Systems Directors, M.I.S. Directors, or Computer Support Specialists.
  • Network Administration (Associate's Degree)
    This program is designed to prepare students to be qualified to install, configure, manage, and maintain existing Microsoft networks. The curriculum includes peripheral interfacing, network design and administration, client/server computing, LANs management, exposure to the relationship between LANs and WANs, connectivity, network theory, system integration, and Internet languages. Upon completion, students will be prepared for emerging positions as Network Administrators or Engineers, Systems Directors, M.I.S. Directors, or Computer Support Specialists.

SEA College of Business and Technology

Locations: Brea, CA

T

TechSkills

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Locations: San Francisco, CA / San Jose, CA / Sacramento, CA

  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) (Class)
    The Cisco Certified Network Associate credential is a valuable certification for experienced network technicians who install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot both a simple routed Local Area Network (LAN) as well as a simple routed Wide Area Network (WAN).
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) (Class)
    The Cisco Certified Network Professional credential is a certification designed for experienced network technicians who are competent in installing, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting advanced Local Area Networks (LANs) as well as large and advanced routed Wide Area Networks (WANs).
  • Network+ (Class)

V

Valley Career College

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Locations: El Cajon, CA

  • Computer Technician/Networking (Certificate)

W

Westwood College

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Locations: Anaheim, CA / Torrance (South Bay), CA / Los Angeles, CA / Inland Empire (Upland), CA

  • Computer Network Engineering (Associate's Degree)
    The Computer Network Engineering program is designed to provide students with the skills required to design, install, configure, and maintain enterprise-wide networks.
  • Computer Network Management (Bachelor's Degree)
    The Computer Network Management program is designed to provide students with advanced networking skills required to design, install, configure, and maintain enterprisewide networks.
  • Information Systems Security (Bachelor's Degree)
    The Information Systems Security program is designed to provide students with advanced security skills required to implement e-business solutions security policies, identify security threats, develop countermeasures using firewall systems and attack recognition technologies, and manage the deployment of security solutions.

An Introduction to Computer Networking Careers

As businesses and organizations become more dependent on timely and accurate data, their need for skilled networking professionals will increase. Whether a business employs less than ten people or hundreds of people, the need for a robust and user-friendly computer network has become vital. Networks allow for the free flow of information from one area of the company to another.

Graduates of networking programs may be involved in the initial design, development, testing, maintenance, and safeguarding of an organization's computer networks. Work often involves company LAN's, WAN's, internal intranets, extranets, wireless networks, as well as software and security issues involved with the network.

The number of computer networking jobs available has risen quite dramatically over the past few years but so too has the number of people looking to fill these positions. Pay is typically considered to be good and working conditions are generally excellent. Companies employing computer networking professionals usually offer an extensive benefits package as well as a good basic salary.

Employment and Earnings Statistics

There are currently over a quarter of a million computer networking roles available in the country. This means there is a lot of opportunity for the entry-level network administrator but finding employment may become more competitive as you climb higher up the professional ladder. The starting salary for a newly graduated network engineer or network analyst will usually be in the region of $30,000 to $40,000. A recent graduate will often start in an entry-level position and work his or her way up.

Current Computer Network Requirements

Establishing and maintaining a network is a complex task that requires a very specific range of skills. A productive and well-designed IT infrastructure can help companies to save a significant amount of money each year. On the other hand, a poor network tends to lead to a decrease in Internet and email availability which, in turn, can lead to lost revenue and poor customer relations.

Unfortunately, companies looking to reduce costs may not be willing to employ the services of a full-time network administrator. As a result, there are more and more freelance or contract work positions becoming available for networking professionals.

The Best Course of Education or Vocation

Educational courses, or more specifically degrees, are the preferred choice of most employers. Anyone looking to start or advance a career in computer networking should start with a good solid high school background and then progress to studying for a degree offered by one of many computer networking schools available.

In addition to a small sample of specific networking degrees that are offered, shorter courses, usually ranging from nine months to two years are available that provide a faster, more direct approach. Again, different computer networking schools offer different options in this respect and different employers look for different qualifications. It is almost impossible to preempt the choice of a future employer but as long as a qualification is recognized and offers a genuinely useful curriculum then it will be a valid and often valuable addition to your resume.

Computer Networking Jobs

  • Network Administrator/Engineer. A network administrator is responsible for establishing and effectively maintaining a local network or, more recently, a wireless network. Clearly, this encompasses many different aspects. Because professionals generally take these positions for their first job, employers expect network administrators to learn as they work but will also usually demand the appropriate qualifications.
  • Network Technician. A network technician is responsible for the technical repair and troubleshooting of hardware and software systems. This can include traveling to customers' premises to help with the initial setup or fixing of a particular piece of software or hardware attached to, or comprising, the network.
  • Network Analyst/Programmer. While network analysts and network programmers are generally referred to in the same breath, the actual roles are different. A network analyst identifies problems or potential improvements to the network. They may also be responsible for the purchase of any software or scripts to aid in its remedy. However, it is a network programmer who will create the scripts and the software in question. Smaller companies tend to blur the lines of these two professions and expect candidates to be able to complete both roles.
  • Network Supervisors and Managers. Strictly speaking, supervisors and managers are not employed for their networking abilities. They are in charge of the administrators and other networking professionals. However, it is best if the manager has considerable experience working with networks to aid with any problems that may arise.

Computer Networking Program Details

Computer networking schools in California offer a wide range of different courses and degrees. There are, however, three basic types of qualifications one should aim for when looking to begin a career in computer networking.

Educational Certificates and Diplomas

Most California computer networking schools offer various certificates or diplomas. It has also become more commonplace for high schools to offer a relatively in-depth and hands-on diploma to students wishing to commit to additional networking studies after high school. All of these courses take a practical approach to the different aspects of networking. Generally, these courses will begin with an introduction to networks and the practical use of a hardwired network and a wireless network. This will be followed by a study of the hardware components of the network. Hardware components include the switches, routers, and other network hardware items as well as computers and general desktop hardware connected to the network. Software is covered, although, not in as great a depth as in other courses.

Degree Programs

In addition to the several general computing degrees that involve elements of computer networking, there are some degrees aimed solely at computer networking. These degrees presume a basic knowledge of computers as well as a basic understanding of networks. Depending on the exact degree you choose, it will tend to either concentrate on the hardware or software side of a computer network.

Certificates

Many professionals look to further their advancement and education through the use of vocational qualifications. Major networking and software companies, such as Microsoft and Cisco, run their own courses for networking professionals. Employees with these networking certificates are highly sought after because of the complexity and focus of the program. After passing a course and an exam to gain the certificate it is also necessary to re-take the exam on a regular basis to maintain certification. Because of the nature of vocational certificates, the education received is based around the latest advances and the most recent technologies. This ensures that the networking professional is always up to date. A network certification is a highly desirable trait in a potential employee.

It really is very difficult to predict with any degree of accuracy, which educational route is best for any one individual. This is partially because employers themselves differ so greatly in their requirements. Some prefer candidates with a degree, while others prefer candidates with a specific networking certificate. A networking degree, though, stands out above all other options because of the dedication required and the knowledge offered by the four-year course. The best thing for potential networking candidates to do is to look through the prospectuses offered by the numerous computer networking schools at which courses are being offered.

Read our article, Considerations for a Career in Computer Networking, for additional information about a career in networking.

Have we forgotten a California computer networking school?

If you know of a computer networking program in California that we don't have listed here, please let us know by emailing us at info@california-vocational-schools.com.

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