Associate of Applied Science in Network Management and Security
Degree Overview
Train to be an IT professional at Stratford University....seek the knowledge that employers are looking for.
The mission of the Network Management and Security Associate's Degree is to prepare the University's students with the necessary skills to be competitive on the job market. The degree accentuates on the current industry competencies to provide the student the opportunity to learn and understand the current trends that drive the IT industry.
The students will become professionals who can install, troubleshoot and maintain computer networks. Upon completion, students will possess the necessary skills and techniques using modern tools to administer computer networks. A strong emphasis is put on key topics such as network management, system administration and security concepts necessary for introductory positions in the computer network industry.
Program Requirements and Online Options
Students can complete the program through classroom instruction, online instruction, or a combination of both. It typically takes 60 weeks to complete the entire Associate’s program without breaks.
Credits Required
Number of Classes
Core Component
45
10
Electives
22.5
5
Arts and Sciences
22.5
5
Total Required for Graduation
90
20
Core Courses
Elective Pool
Arts and Sciences
Fundamentals of Information Systems - CIS103
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Students learn to analyze systems and quality concepts and learn how information technology can be used to design, facilitate, and communicate organization goals and objectives. An overview of hardware and software with its relation to information technology is also presented.
Advanced Hardware and OS Architecture - CIS141
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: IST101
This course provides knowledge in preventative maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of expansion buses, multimedia, video, modems, SCSI controllers, laptops, and printers. In addition, this course provides a brief introduction to networking technology, including the components necessary to attach a client to a local area network LAN).
Data Communications - CIS143
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS140
This course covers the basic concepts of networking technology within Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) environments. Topics include the dominant network topologies (Ethernet, Token Ring, FDDI), network protocols (TCP/IP, SPX/IPX and NetBIOS), cabling systems (coaxial, twisted pair, fiber optic), as well as wireless communication. The course introduces the primary features of internetworking devices (bridges, routers, repeaters, hubs, gateways, and switches) and the OSI software model for computer communication. All topics are related to the historical development of the field.
Client Operating Systems Technology - CIS145
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS140
The student will learn how to install, configure, optimize, and troubleshoot a Windows XP Professional client operating system. The student will become familiar with resource administration, hardware devices and drivers, system performance and reliability, the desktop environment, network protocols and services, and security. These concepts will be reinforced through a series of hand-on exercises.
Server Operating Systems Technology - CIS150
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS140
The student will learn how to install, configure, optimize, and troubleshoot a Windows 2003 server operating system. The student will become familiar with access to resources, hardware devices and drivers, storage configuration and optimization, network connections, and security. In particular, the student will focus on managing, monitoring, and optimizing server system performance, reliability, and availability. These concepts will be reinforced through a series of hands-on exercises.
Network Directory Services Management - CIS160
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
In this course, students learn to install, configure, and troubleshoot the Windows 2003 Active Directory components, DNS for Active Directory, and Active Directory security solutions. In addition, each student will be developing the skills required to manage, monitor, and optimize the desktop environment by using Group Policy. Through a series of hands-on exercises, the student will become familiar with directory organization unit structures, connection objects and links, global catalog servers, directory backup and restore integration of directory services with DNS, inter-site replication of data, directory change and configuration management, group policy, remote installation, and network security.
Linux Operating Systems - CIS162
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS140
In this course, students will learn how to install and optimize Red Hat Linux, a multi-user and multitasking Unix-like operating system. In particular each student will become familiar with: the Linux file system; shell programming; filters and pipelines; GUI desktop and application environments; and virtual memory. Through a series of laboratory exercises, each student will configure a server for remote access using the standard suite of TCP/IP tools and application packages.
Introduction to Relational Database Management Systems - CIS206
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is designed for students with limited or no previous database experience. Course outcomes include a solid understanding of fundamental database terms and concepts such as tables, queries, forms and reports, and their application using a popular database. This course also introduces database analysis, database design, and N-tiered client-server database systems. A problem-based approach using SQL is used in this course.
Routers and Switches in the Enterprise - CIS250
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS155
Students learn how to work with networks that include routers and switches. They will be able to install, configure, and operate Cisco routers and switches within LAN and WAN environments. Students will configure IP, IPX, and IGRP protocols, as well as frame relay and remote access dial-up router interfaces.
Implementing and Supporting Secure Networks - CIS255
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS231
In this course, students learn and implement best practices in the creation of a secure wide area network that includes both Microsoft and non-Microsoft products. Students design a security system that degrades gracefully under attack both from within and without. As part of this course, students learn published hacking techniques, such as IP address spoofing, source routing, routing table corruption, password cracking, denial of service zombies, and several methods to get access to the root directory. The course then focuses on the patches and methods to disable these security breaches. Vulnerabilities of Microsoft, Linux, and UNIX operating systems are addressed. Several well-known hacking case studies are analyzed.
Network Infrastructure Management - CIS155
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS155
In this course, the student will learn to install, manage, monitor, configure, and troubleshoot the services that are required for the efficient operation of a TCP/IP Windows 2003 network infrastructure, including Domain Name Servers (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Remote Access, Network Protocols, IP Routing, Windows Name Servers (WINS), Network Address Translation (NAT), and Certificate Services in a Windows 2003 network infrastructure. Students will understand the conceptual and practical framework for this TCP/IP infrastructure through a series of hand-on exercises.
Fundamentals of Web Design - CIS202
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course applies effective graphic design techniques and methods to the web. Students learn to write HTML code directly and are to use HTML code generators such as Macromedia Dreamweaver. The course emphasizes the creation of web pages that are displayed properly in multiple browsers. Special attention is being paid to well-designed web pages that meet site requirements.
Advanced Data Communications - CIS210
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS143
In this class the student develops an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of various communication protocols and datalink subnetworks, including TCP/IP, SNA, SPX/IPX, X.25, frame relay and ATM. Students design and analyze a wide area network infrastructure. This analysis includes congestion, bandwidth versus performance trades, bandwidth versus cost trades, equipment specifications, protocol standards, LAN/WAN integration, and network performance in terms of latency and jitter.
Network Directory and Infrastructure Design - CIS226
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Active Directory services infrastructure and design a network infrastructure that meets those business requirements. Network infrastructure elements include: network topology, routing, IP addressing, name resolution using DNS, virtual private networks, and remote access. Various network designs are covered, including issues such as bandwidth requirements, latency, statistical access patterns, multi-protocol requirements, internet connectivity, and WAN infrastructure telecommunication costs. Students also design a directory services architecture, including forest and domain structure, naming strategy, and organization unit structure, replication strategy, site topology, operations masters, global catalog servers, domain controllers, and DNS servers.
Network Security Infrastructure Design - CIS230
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS201
Students learn to analyze the business requirements for security and to design security solutions that meet business requirements. The student learns best practices in security including: controlling access to resources, auditing access to resources, authentication, and encryption. Security topics include: audit policy, encryption file system, authentication strategy, security group strategy, public key infrastructure, DNS, SNMP, terminal services, remote access, signing, and IPSec. The student design a security baseline for a Windows 2003 network that includes domain controllers, operations masters, application servers, file and print servers, RAS servers, desktop computers, portable computers, and kiosks.
Network and Intrusion Forensics - CIS235
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS201
The student will develop a comprehensive understanding of forensics as it relates to data communication networks and intrusions. Students will learn the relationship between computer security, computer crimes, and forensics. Special emphasis will be placed on computer crimes and forensics in law enforcement and financial accounting practices. Forensic tools will be discussed and used in lab sections.
Enterprise Email Architecture - CIS240
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS160
In this course, the student will develop the ability to implement, administer, and troubleshoot information systems that incorporate Microsoft Exchange 2003 Server. Students will install and upgrade Exchange 2000; manage coexistence with Exchange Server 5.5; deploy Microsoft Outlook 2003, Outlook Web Access, POP3, IMAP4, and IRC; configure Exchange server for disaster recovery; create and manage administrative groups, security, and public folders; and configure and monitor client connectivity.
Legal and Ethical Aspects in Digital Forensics - CIS245
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course uses current events to exploit the impact of civil, criminal, and regulatory law on network and intrusion forensics. Current and future affairs are s of information include articles, journals and papers. Other topics discussed include legislative concerns affecting digital forensics, a study of the legislative process, ethics are discussed. Sources of information include articles, journals and papers. Other topics discussed include legislative concerns affecting digital forensics, a study of the legislative process, ethical issues and standards. This course uses current events to exploit the impact of civil, criminal, and regulatory law on network and intrusion forensics. Current and future affairs are discussed. Sourcecal issues and standards.
Advanced Router Configuration - CIS251
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS250
Students learn how to configure and troubleshoot various routed environments (Access, Distributed and Core). Students learn to manage access and control overhead traffic in growing, routed networks once basic connectivity has been established. An additional focus is on router capabilities as well as connecting corporate enterprise networks to an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
Advanced Switch Configuration - CIS252
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: CIS250
Students learn to build networks using multilayer switching technologies over high-speed Ethernet connections. Students encounter routing and switching concepts and implementations including the use of appropriate devices and external management tools.
Encryption and Cryptography in Digital Forensics - CIS265
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course covers the basics of cryptography. The differences between symmetric and asymmetric encryption will be examined and examples of each type of algorithm are discussed. This course also examines the fundamental sciences behind cryptography. Other topics discussed include encryption and security standards.
Incident Handling and Computer Forensics - CIS275
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Students learn how to identify an attack in progress or that an attack has occurred and how to properly handle each situation. Students learn to monitor different types of computer systems and platforms for evidence of crime and learn how to gather and preserve such evidence.
Wireless Telecommunication Networks - CIS281
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
Students develop a fundamental understanding of fixed and wireless networks, including satellites, in terms of design and deployment engineering practices. The course considers indoor and outdoor propagation effects, modulation and data encoding technologies, antenna design and placement, and personal communications device design constraints. Current and future systems in the U. S., Europe and Asia are included, with particular emphasis on the standards development process. The impact of new Low Earth Orbit (LEOs) Satellites and other technologies on the use of wireless Personal Communications Systems (PCS) will be analyzed. Students will work in teams on a specific practical project.
Current Topics in Computer Information Systems I - CIS291
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: Approval from Program Director
This course provides students discussion and problem solving in current topics from the computer information systems field. The topic will be announced in the current term schedule.
Current Topics in Computer Information Systems II - CIS292
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: Approval from Program Director
This course provides students discussion and problem solving in current topics from the computer information systems field. The topic will be announced in the current term schedule.
College Composition - ENG111
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course focuses on reviewing grammar, sentence structure, punctuation skills, and style points required for effective written communication. Students use a standard handbook and apply proofreading skills to all types of written communications. The student is guided in learning writing as a process: understanding audience and purpose, exploring ideas and information, composing, revising, and editing.
Current Topics in English - ENG290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in English including, but not limited to, introductory topics in understanding and creating various genres of English communication such as narrative prose, technical communication, poetry, and cinematic forms.
Oral Communications - ENG310
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents the principles and functions of spoken communications. The student learns how to prepare to deliver various types of oral presentations. Emphasis is on planning and on how to orient content to a particular audience. Students present short talks and plan and present longer, more formal speeches on assigned topics and/or on topics of choice.
Advanced Composition and Research - ENG320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: ENG111 or equivalent
This course emphasizes advanced writing and research including understanding the documentation process, presenting material in academic form, and academic research techniques. Materials may Include MLA and APA styles effective use of internet research tools, critical reading processes, and research writing techniques.
Special Topics in English - ENG490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: ENG111 or equivalent.
This course concentrates on special topics in English. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics such as English philology and etymology, as well as advanced topics in rhetoric and critical interpretation of texts.
Principles of Ethics - HUM110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course focuses on the application of ethics to personal and professional life. Positive and negative sides of behavior and how this affects self-image and self-respect will be discussed.
Spanish I - HUM210
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course uses vocabulary and structure through a series of activities designed for realistic communication which allow students to achieve both written and spoken Spanish language skills. Through reading, dialogue, and associated study, students develop an understanding of the language and cultural distinctions of Spanish speakers worldwide.
Special Topics in the Humanities - HUM290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in philosophy, religion, culture, and/or language arts.
World Literature - HUM320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes an understanding and appreciation of world literature. Materials covered Include Western and non-Western literary endeavors. Focus will be on similarities among the various literatures, analysis of literary genre, and appreciation of voice.
The American Experience - HUM330
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes the development of American values and Institutions through analysis of social, political, and economic materials. The course examines the Influence of political, economic, social, and environmental factors as it explores Ideas of Individualism, success, and national character. Materials may include historical documents, literature, and social, political, and artistic works.
Understanding World Cultures - HUM410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course discusses civilizations and cultures as they evolved from Eastern, Western, African and South American influences. The student is enabled to relate diverse cultures to their impact on contemporary society, politics, and world events.
Spanish II - HUM420
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: HUM310
This course reviews the fundamentals of the Spanish language and provides special attention to the continuing development of students' conversational and reading skills. Students build upon their understanding of the language in both written and oral forms.
Special Topics in the Humanities - HUM490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Special Topics in Humanities II - HUM491
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Special Topics in Humanities III - HUM492
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in the humanities. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in ethics, philosophy, religious and cultural studies, and/or language arts.
Fundamentals of Mathematics - MAT110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides an introduction to the basic techniques of mathematics and applies them to problem solving in different areas of business and industry. This course does not count towards the Bachelor's program.
College Algebra - MAT210
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course explores a series of algebraic concepts including rational expressions, radicals and exponents, quadratic equations, systems of equations, and applications.
Current Topics in Mathematics - MAT290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on current issues in mathematics. Topics may include, but are not limited to, set theory, algebraic concepts, geometry, and probability.
Statistics - MAT310
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course presents material essential in an increasing number of professional fields by providing a new type of competence, quantitative literacy. Topics include descriptive statistics; collecting and interpreting data; inferential statistics; probability; consumer mathematics; management mathematics; and growth and scaling.
Calculus - MAT410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: MAT210 or equivalent
This course focuses on techniques of differential and integral calculus likely encountered in professional activities and real-world situations. Students will gain a sound, intuitive understanding of the basic concepts of calculus through a problem-solving approach. Topics include functions, graphs, and limits; differentiation; derivatives; exponential and logarithmic functions; integration; and variables.
Special Topics in Mathematics - MAT490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: Permission of the Instructor
This course concentrates on special topics in mathematics. Topics may include, but are not limited to, mathematical history and philosophy, Euclidian and non-Euclidian geometries, linear algebra, polar coordinates, vectors, partial derivatives, line integrals, and multiple integrals, as well as applications for these topics.
Social Psychology - PSY110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course provides an application of the Psychological principles to the development of a stable social framework within business and personal environments.
Current Topics in Psychology - PSY290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in psychology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in learning, memory, motivation, emotion, states of consciousness, psychological assessment, mental health, psychology of personality, and creativity.
Organizational Behavior - PSY310
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites:
Human Growth & Development - PSY320
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course emphasizes the psychological, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the human organism. Materials include those related to the various stages of the life span, and the developmental Influence of social class, the family, the school, and the group. A focus is placed on the abilities, needs, problems, and concerns of humans to change throughout life, and how people are shaped by their experiences throughout their development.
Critical Thinking and Reasoning - PSY340
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is designed to help students develop thinking skills and make good judgments. Participants are exposed to both logical and illogical thinking processes as a means to develop their skills in reasoning, analysis and the use of logical arguments. Various kinds of arguments are presented and analyzed, and logical fallacies are explored with the goal of reaching sound conclusions. Deductive and inductive reasoning are examined as are the criteria for sound reasoning and common reasoning mistakes people make. Students debate issues from different sides with both logical and illogical arguments.
Special Topics in Psychology - PSY490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: PSY110 or equivalent.
This course concentrates on special topics in psychology. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in deviant behavior, psychological testing and assessment, religious behavior, neurophysiology, and psychology and the law.
General Science - SCI110
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course examines scientific concepts and principles in an integrated manner to provide an overview of the sciences. Topics include physics, astronomy, chemistry, earth science, and biology as a means to address areas such as growing global population, limited resources and the fragile environment.
Microbiology - SCI250
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course examines the structure, nutrition, growth, genetics, classification, and ecology of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Attention will be given to methods of microbial control, and the human immune response to microbes. Students will also learn the fundamentals of microscopy, laboratory safety, scientific method and techniques of experimentation. Laboratory component required
Current Topics in Science - SCI290
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None.
This course concentrates on current issues in science. Topics may include, but are not limited to, introductory topics in meteorology, geology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and the space sciences.
Introduction to Biochemistry - SCI360
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: SCI110
This course examines the basic structures and functions of carbohydrates, lipids, nucleotides and proteins and their role in human metabolism. Vitamins, co-enzymes, and minerals are examined and pathways for xenobiotic metabolism are discussed.
Impact of Science and Technology - SCI410
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of science and future thinking. The content demonstrates how scientific and technological advances have significantly impacted all aspects of contemporary life.
Special Topics in Science - SCI490
Credits: 4.5Prerequisites: None
This course concentrates on special topics in science. Topics may include, but are not limited to, advanced topics in interdisciplinary topics such as the history of science and technology, cross-cultural studies of science, cosmology, biotechnology, the use of science and technology to enhance human abilities and quality of life, and techniques for assessment and remediation of science and technology hazards.











