The Associate of Applied Science degree in Information Technology focuses on the computerized technologies that are critical to business and industry. Students will build a core foundation and choose one of three tracks: Cyber Security, Network Administration, or Server Administration in order to complete the degree.
Our A.A.S. program is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce in any number of entry-level positions. Graduates will feel confident knowing that their skills will be in demand in a variety of diverse workplaces.
Since July 2019, 3,842 jobs were posted by companies in our region for professionals in this field. The median salary for an information security analyst is $99,696 per year. (Source: EMSI Career Coach)
Cyber Security focuses on the most critical and quickly changing area of the industry. This program provides students with the ability to not only administer networks but also to secure those networks and conduct penetration tests to ensure they are not vulnerable to attacks. Graduates will have an understanding of computer hardware, operating systems, networking, databases, programming, and defensive and offensive security. Students will cover aspects of the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), CompTIA Linux+, Net+, Security+ and A+, Wireshark Certified Network Analyst, and the EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker certifications.
Program Objectives
- Demonstrate knowledge in Operating Systems, Networking, Data Communication, and Database Technology.
- Demonstrate various techniques for preventing unauthorized attacks to computer networks and apply measures for minimizing the damage caused by network intruders.
- Evaluate and implement the needed information security controls for any information system and provide an assurance framework where the security processes or controls, or both, are embedded in information systems technologies.
- Understand professional, ethical, legal, security, and social issues and responsibilities.
- Apply strong communication and critical thinking skills including reading, writing, organizing, evaluating, problem solving, and presentation skills.
Requirements & Course Sequence
All course requirements and the recommended sequence of courses for this program can be found through the College’s Online Academic Catalog. Click here to access the catalog for details on our IT – Cyber Security program.
Click here to view the IT – Cyber Security program map outlining courses required by semester.
Program Availability
IT – Cyber Security is available at the following locations:
Since July 2019, 7,266 jobs were posted by companies in our region for professionals in this field. The median salary for a computer systems analyst is $81,710 per year. (Source: EMSI Career Coach)
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Network Administration focuses on the computerized technologies that are critical to business and industry. This program provides students with the ability to configure a variety of network devices, such as routers and switches. Graduates will have an understanding of local and wide area network technologies, telecommunications, wireless communications, and network connectivity. In addition to an understanding of telecommunications, students will also obtain comprehensive training via the Cisco Networking Academy classes as part of the curriculum. After completion of the program, students will be prepared to take the CCNA certification exam. Students additionally will cover aspects of the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and CompTIA Security+ and A+ certifications.
Program Objectives
- Demonstrate general computer and networking knowledge.
- Demonstrate knowledge of network operations in preparation for the CCNA certification exam.
- Configure and troubleshoot network devices and security implementations.
- Identify, organize, plan, and allocate resources effectively in a telecommunications environment.
- Apply strong communication and critical thinking skills, including reading, writing, organizing, evaluating, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Requirements & Course Sequence
All course requirements and the recommended sequence of courses for this program can be found through the College’s Online Academic Catalog. Click here to access the catalog for details on our IT – Network Administration program.
Program Availability
IT – Network Administration is available at the following locations:
Since July 2019, 2,979 jobs were posted by companies in our region for professionals in this field. The median salary for a network administrator is $74,014 per year. (Source: EMSI Career Coach)
Server Administration focuses on the computerized technologies that are critical to business and industry. This program provides students with the ability to administer a variety of computer networks. Graduates will have an understanding of network operating systems, PC connectivity, network resources, network utilities, and network administration. In addition to an understanding of networks, students will also obtain comprehensive training in the administration of specific operating systems including Linux, numerous Microsoft network operating systems, and other network utilities. Students will cover aspects of the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and well as CompTIA Linux+, Net+, Security+, and A+ certifications.
Program Objectives
- Demonstrate general computer and networking knowledge.
- Provide accurate technical explanations of the major components of a computer and the devices used in creating a network environment.
- Perform routine network administrative tasks, including operating system installs and upgrades, configuration, administration, and troubleshooting.
- Identify, organize, plan, and allocate resources and the different level of address assignment in the computer network environment.
- Identify, plan, and allocate security in a network environment.
- Apply strong communication and critical thinking skills, including reading, writing, organizing, evaluating, problem-solving, and presentation skills.
Requirements & Course Sequence
All course requirements and the recommended sequence of courses for this program can be found through the College’s Online Academic Catalog. Click here to access the catalog for details on our IT – Server Administration program.
Program Availability
IT – Server Administration is available at the following locations:
Your ability to start here and earn a bachelor’s degree anywhere makes Penn Highlands the right college choice. Plus, you will save thousands of dollars. Be smart, and get your associate degree with us before transferring on to something greater.
Penn Highlands has signed transfer agreements to continue your studies in Information Technology with:
- Mount Aloysius College
- Robert Morris University
- Saint Francis University
- Southern New Hampshire University
Ready? Schedule a visit to discuss your future. Transfer options are different based on the college you plan to attend; our team can help you determine the right path for what you are looking for.
NATIONAL CENTER OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN CYBER DEFENSE
We are a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE2Y) as designated by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. Click here to learn more about what this designation means through our official press release.
 
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