IT-Cybersecurity & Network Administration

IT-Cybersecurity & Network Administration

An IT student works wire the wires and equipment in a server room.
Degree Type Program Number Program Code Credits
Associate Degree 101512 ITCY 65.00
Typical Start Learning Format Financial Aid Estimated Cost Location Area of Interest
Fall Hybrid Available 11491 La Crosse Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Western's IT-Cybersecurity and Network Administration program provides you with the skills required to maintain a secure operating system along with the expertise to design, install, and manage the integrity of a computer network infrastructure. Equipment and technology used in this program includes firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, anomaly identification systems, cloud computing, and associated physical security technologies. Coursework covers the most popular business class operating systems such as Microsoft Windows (Server and Workstation), Linux, and UNIX-like systems. On the network administration side, we focus on how to configure routing and switching devices. You will work with real-world equipment to gain the extensive knowledge required to accurately configure networks to transmit signals across the globe.

Admissions Requirements

Career Opportunities

Bench Technician

Network Specialist

IT Support Specialist

System Imaging Technician

Information Security Analyst

Network Systems Administrator

Network Security Technician

Systems Engineer

Data Security Analyst

Owner: Self Employed IT Analyst

Program Outcomes

All programs at Western prepare students for success in a free-enterprise society through human experiences that integrate:

  • Cultivating passion
  • Living responsibly
  • Refining professionalism

Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025

Graduates 41
Graduates Responding 10
Employed In Related Occupation 6
Employed In Non-related Occupations 3
Seeking Employment 0
Continuing Education 0
Not In Labor Market 1
Graduates Responding Employed Part Time in Related Occupation 0
Graduates Responding Employed Full Time in Related Occupation 6
FT Average Hours per Week 41
FT Median Hourly Wage $23.75
FT Hourly Wage Range $22.00 - $26.17
FT Median Annual Salary $59,000
Related Occupations Desktop Support Technician I, Help Desk Analyst, Infrastructure Technician, Sr. Systems Security Engineer, System Administrator, Technical Support

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Special Requirements

This program requires specific software and technology to complete classwork. Click here to see the list of items you will need for your courses (PDF).

If you do not have access to the items listed for your program, or if the items you have do not meet the requirements, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Internet access is required to access student accounts from off campus. The Learning Commons can provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

For additional specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.

Prior Learning

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.

Certificates

There are currently no certificates associated with this pathway.

Technical Diplomas

IT-Network Technician

Associate Degrees

IT-Cybersecurity & Network Administration

University Transfer

Courses

Term 1
Course Credits
10150110 - Cisco 1: Networking Fund 3.00
10150101 - IT Hardware/Software Fund 3.00
10154103 - IT Pathways 3.00
10151100 - Introduction to Cybersecurity 1.00
10804135 - Quantitative Reasoning 3.00
10890106 - Strengths Seminar 1.00
Term 2
Course Credits
10150120 - Cisco 2: Switching & Routing Technology 3.00
10151101 - Cybersecurity Essentials 2.00
10809166 - Introduction to Ethics: Theory and App 3.00
10150137 - Linux Administration 3.00
10150192 - Windows Server Admin 1 3.00
Term 3
Course Credits
10151110 - Cybersecurity Operations 3.00
10801197 - Technical Reporting 3.00
10154110 - Windows PowerShell Scripting 3.00
10150194 - Windows Server Admin 2 3.00
Term 4
Course Credits
10154145 - Database Server Administration 3.00
10154180 - IT Field Study 1.00
10150118 - Network Security 1 3.00
10801196 - Oral/Interpersonal Comm 3.00
10151115 - Wireless and Mobile Security 3.00
Term 5
Course Credits
10809198 - Intro to Psychology 3.00
10150119 - Network Security 2 3.00
10150198 - Network Service and Support 3.00
10150146 - Virtualization and Cloud Security 3.00