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Overview
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.
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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
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $15,362
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $23,316.98
Final costs are dependent on the number of course credits a student takes per semester.
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 are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for spring 2022 opened on June 14, 2021.
- Applications for fall 2022 opened on Oct. 6, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 | Dec. 16, 2022 |
| Fall 2022 | Oct. 31, 2022 | May 5, 2023 |
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Admission requirements
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Spring 2022 start: applications are accepted from June 14, 2021 to April 25, 2022.
- Fall 2022 start: applications are accepted from Oct. 6, 2021 to Oct. 17, 2022.
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. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions. Find more information here.
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 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.
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.
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
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 in, within or on from SAIT is available.
Visit transfer options to learn more.
Costs 2021/22
Domestic tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $13,486 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $14,819 |
International tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,263 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $22,596 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside of this time frame.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $183.20
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $310
- Student support fee: $150
- Student technology fee: $150
Health and dental fees
Domestic students
- Health plan: $122
- Dental plan: $130
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
International students
- Health and Dental plan: $252
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.
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more about tuition and financial aid.
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $421
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $13,893 | $916 | $553 | $15,362 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $662.06
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $21,847.98 | $916 | $553 | $23,316.98 |
*Maximum fee. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits a student takes per semester and whether they opt-out of health and dental benefits.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $196
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $320
- Student support fee: $200
- Student technology fee: $200
Saitsa fees
Student Association fee
- Maximum: $291
This is the maximum amount the student will pay. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits the students take per semester.
Health and dental fees
- Health plan: $127
- Dental plan: $135
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
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.
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more 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.
Spring 2022
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place online on Friday, May 6 from 9 am to noon. Watch your inbox for further details.
Learn more about your orientation.
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, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace D2L before the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.
Contact
403.284.8543
sadt.advising@sait.ca
Academic chair
Erin Gates, Academic Chair
erin.gates@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
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