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Overview
This program replaces Network Technician, beginning Fall 2021
In our interconnected world, strong, resilient and scalable computer networks are critical to industry success. Through classroom training and practical application, this program will help you develop skills and competencies in computer network design, maintenance and support, to get you career-ready as a network systems specialist.
During this intensive 32-week certificate, you will develop skills in leading-edge technologies including cloud and server administration, virtualized infrastructure, and Linux administration. You'll also become a member of the Cisco Networking Academy to specialize in computer networking, troubleshooting, and security.
As a result of the practical focus of this program, you will gain valuable experience solving technical problems and providing solutions that are on-time and within scope. This experience is further bolstered by a mandatory 8-week practicum that completes the program, preparing you for a successful career in the information technology (IT) field.
Is this the right fit for me?
This is an intensive program requiring a significant commitment of time and energy. Students who are successful in this program typically:
- Have higher secondary and/or post-secondary grades
- Make their education a priority (including engaging in consistent self-study throughout the program)
- Have experience with computer hardware and/or operating and networking systems (an asset, but not required)
Accreditation
By the end of the program, graduates will have the knowledge to challenge the Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA) exams.
With additional work experience and exam preparation, graduates may also become prepared to challenge other relevant industry exams, including the CompTIA A+ and VMWare certifications.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT Network Systems Specialist certificate.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- network systems specialist
- network support analyst
- help desk analyst
- network support specialist
- IT consultant
Related careers include:
- network systems administrator
$49,000
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $14,819
Year 1 (International): $22,688
Full costs
Tuition and financial aid
This program is eligible for Canada-Alberta Job Grant funding.
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
- Applications for fall 2021 open Feb. 1, 2021, and are accepted until the program start date.
| Term | Program start |
|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Nov. 1, 2021 |
Admission requirements
Admission and selection
- Fall 2021 start: applications are now open! Apply today.
Admission requirements
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent, OR,
- A minimum of two years post-secondary education from a recognized university, institute or college.
- All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada.
Due to the tight integration of the courses in the Network Technician (NT) program, credit for prior learning is not available.
Direct Entry: four step process
Please complete these steps to learn more about the program you have chosen and confirm that this is the right training for you for your chosen career path.
Step 1: Read the program information on the website and review this program presentation to learn more about student expectations during the program.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed.
Step 3: Apply for the program.
Step 4: Continue to monitor changes to your application status through mySAIT.ca.
Previous computer operating systems, cloud technologies and/or networking experience gained through education, industry experience, industry certifications, or completion of online tutorial related to computer operating systems or networking is strongly recommended.
Communication during admissions
Email is the primary source of communication during the admissions process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.
We recommend you add fast-track@sait.ca and the sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Ideal applicant
The ideal candidate for the Network Systems Specialist (NSS) program is a motivated, mature learner with an interest in computer networking, who wants to specialize or to upgrade their existing skills. You are technically proficient and detail-oriented. Your approach to problem-solving is both creative and logical, depending on the circumstances. You work well as part of a team and enjoy interacting with others. You possess a good working knowledge of operating systems and computer hardware. You are probably the person your friends and family go to when they have computer problems.
Courses
Program outline
The courses listed are not shown in the instructional order. Due to the nature of the fast-track programs some courses may be modified or replaced.
This is a 32-week fast-track certificate offered over multiple semesters.
Fall program start
Semester 1
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CMPH-239 | IT Essentials | 3.0 |
| CMPN-276 | Internetworks Level I | 3.0 |
| CPLN-240 | Career Planning and Management | 1.5 |
| NETT-270 | Linux Installation and Administration | 1.5 |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CMPN-277 | Internetworks Level II | 3.0 |
| CMPN-287 | Internetworks Level III | 3.0 |
| CPNT-209 | Network Resilience and Scalability | 3.0 |
| CPNT-216 | Virtualized Infrastructure | 3.0 |
| CPNT-223 | Network Security | 3.0 |
| NETT-262 | Network Design and Implementation Project | 3.0 |
| NETT-275 | Cloud and Server Administration | 3.0 |
Semester 3
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| NETT-350 | Network Systems Specialist Practicum | 3.0 |
Spring program start
Semester 1
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CMPH-239 | IT Essentials | 3.0 |
| CMPN-276 | Internetworks Level I | 3.0 |
| CMPN-277 | Internetworks Level II | 3.0 |
| CMPN-287 | Internetworks Level III | 3.0 |
| CPLN-240 | Career Planning and Management | 1.5 |
| CPNT-216 | Virtualized Infrastructure | 3.0 |
| NETT-270 | Linux Installation and Administration | 1.5 |
| NETT-275 | Cloud and Server Administration | 3.0 |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CPNT-209 | Network Resilience and Scalability | 3.0 |
| CPNT-223 | Network Security | 3.0 |
| NETT-262 | Network Design and Implementation Project | 3.0 |
| NETT-350 | Network Systems Specialist Practicum | 3.0 |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer to, within or from SAIT is available with the following universities and colleges:
- Rocky Mountain College
- SAIT
To learn more, visit transfer options.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $13,486 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $152 | $14,819 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
Check back for updates on the 2021/22 fees and program total.
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,263 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $344 | $22,688 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside this time frame.
SAIT Fees
Campus athletic and recreation: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
Health and Dental Fees
Domestic Students
- Health Plan: $122
- Dental Plan: $130
- For students with existing health and/or dental plans, please refer to the Saitsa website for information on opting out.
International Students
- Health and Dental Plan: $344
- For more information on Health and Dental Benefits for International students please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
- Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
Find out about tuition and financial aid.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Student Guidelines
Review the student guidelines to learn about the School of Information and Communications Technologies' expectations before you start your studies.
Fall 2021
Delivery
TBD
How to register for classes
You'll follow a fixed block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a Power User hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Students may also be required to purchase hosted virtual lab tools at their own expense.
Preparation courses
To support your success, SAIT offers some short courses before classes start, including PREP 100: The SAIT Experience and ETHI 110: SAIT Ethical Practices.
Required textbooks
The booklist will be available about two weeks before classes start.
Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck, no textbook purchase required this term.
Contact
Email: fast-track@sait.ca
Academic chair
"Thank you for choosing the SAIT School of Information and Communications Technologies! As your academic chair for the Network Systems Specialist program, it’s my pleasure to welcome the newest members of our innovative learning community on behalf of the entire program. We look forward to seeing the impact you’ll make and to supporting your academic journey."
Karen Graham
Academic Chair