Minor in Computer Networking
Hours: 21 On-Campus Online
About
The Minor in Computer Networking at Fort Hays State University offers degree-seeking students in fields such as criminal justice, computer science, management information systems, and technology studies an opportunity to gain practical, applied skills in networking. Depending on elective choices, students may take online or on-campus courses that prepare them to pursue the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.
This program emphasizes hands-on skill development through small class sizes and direct faculty support. Students benefit from a robust lab and computing environment supported by industry leaders, including Cisco, NDG, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). Regardless of their starting skill level, graduates complete the minor with in-demand networking abilities and a competitive resume.
Why pursue a Minor in Computer Networking at Fort Hays State University?
The Minor in Computer Networking is designed to be flexible and adaptable, making it an ideal complement to a wide range of majors. The program offers a focused and streamlined curriculum that equips students with the essential concepts and practical skills necessary to understand and navigate the complexities of modern computer networking.
Who is this program for?
This minor caters to a diverse range of individuals, offering a comprehensive curriculum of the skills needed for a successful career in computer networking. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Individuals interested in pursuing certifications
- People seeking career advancement
- Students majoring in technology-related fields
- Aspiring and current IT practitioners
- Students who want to enhance their employability
Real-World Applications
The minor emphasizes experiential learning, understanding that theoretical knowledge alone is insufficient. The curriculum combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab activities, enabling students to apply concepts in real-world scenarios. Students build a solid foundation in network technologies, protocols, and security while gaining practical experience in designing, deploying, managing, and troubleshooting computer networks. This applied approach equips graduates with the skills and confidence needed to meet the demands of today’s IT industry.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Staying ahead in the rapidly evolving field of computer networking is essential. Fort Hays State University designed this minor to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to emerging technologies and industry trends, preparing them to tackle future challenges and seize new opportunities. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with current industry certification objectives, ensuring students gain relevant, up-to-date expertise. This focus on innovation reflects FHSU’s commitment to providing a forward-thinking, industry-aligned education in computer networking.
Hands-on Activities
The Minor in Computer Networking provides students with a comprehensive education in network technologies. Through hands-on experience with various devices, services, and tools, students gain practical skills that prepare them for future careers in the field.
Extensive lab exercises are integrated into the curriculum, enabling students to apply classroom concepts to real-world networking scenarios and enhance their problem-solving skills.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamentals of networking technologies, protocols, and security
- Current and relevant curriculum
- Preparation for emerging trends
- Network design, deployment, and management
- Troubleshooting techniques
How You’ll Learn:
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty
- Labs with hands-on experience and network devices
- Access to industry-leading equipment and technologies from Cisco and AWS
- Flexible learning options
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is possible
The curriculum includes 12 credit hours of required core courses and 9 credit hours of computer networking electives. Core courses introduce foundational networking concepts and feature hands-on lab exercises that provide students with practical experience in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting routers, switches, and network systems. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized topics, enabling them to deepen their knowledge in areas that align with their individual interests and career goals.
INF 291: Internetworking I
Students in this course study the application of theories relevant to data communications for global internetworking and apply those concepts to a variety of assignments, including hands-on networking labs and projects. The study includes the fundamentals of internetworking, the role of protocols, and layered communications within data networks. Students will also learn about physical and logical network addressing, the devices and services that support data communications, as well as the fundamental concepts associated with routing and switching.
INF 680: Network Architecture and Data Communications I
Students study the concepts and theories relevant to data communications for global internetworking. In the course, students will study topics that include the OSI model for internetworking, physical transmission media, electronic and electromagnetic signaling, analog and digital signaling, line coding, link layer protocols, local addressing, network layer protocols, and global addressing, routing and queuing theory, LAN and WAN protocols, and internet transmission protocols.
INF 695: Advanced Routing
Students will study the theory and application of advanced routing protocols for internetworking. This course explores the operation of Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), and Open Shortest Path First (OSPF). Network scalability issues and solutions, as well as security and management concerns related to advanced routing topics, will also be examined.
Discover the full Minor in Computer Networking course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Minor in Computer Networking is designed to complement a student's primary area of study rather than serve as a standalone program. While career prospects will largely depend on the student's major, the added expertise in computer networking can increase employability and expand potential job opportunities in areas such as:
Network Administrator
Network administrators play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's computer networks. They configure network devices, manage user access, and troubleshoot network issues.
Systems Analyst
Systems analysts apply their knowledge of computer networking to assess and improve an organization’s systems and processes, thereby enhancing efficiency and overall performance.
Cybersecurity Specialist
With the rise of cyber threats, cybersecurity specialists are in high demand. They implement security measures, conduct vulnerability assessments, and perform penetration tests to protect sensitive information.
IT Consultant
IT consultants provide expert guidance to businesses on using technology effectively. They provide strategic insights to help organizations optimize performance, enhance efficiency, and achieve their technological objectives.
Telecommunications Engineer
Telecommunication engineers are responsible for designing and managing communication networks that significantly impact the telecommunications industry. This position is pivotal in ensuring reliable and efficient communication services.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
While the Minor in Computer Networking provides a strong foundation in networking concepts, students may benefit from exploring additional programs that build on this knowledge and expand their career opportunities. To further enhance their skills and expertise, students are encouraged to consider the following related programs:
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Computer Networking and Telecommunications)
- Certificate in Internetworking
- Certificate in Full Stack Web Development
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Information Systems)
- Minor in Web Development
The program takes 21 credit hours to complete. This can be completed in one or two semesters, depending on your course load and the number of transfer credits you have.
Computer networking is a relatively high-paying field. The median annual salary for network engineers and system administrators is $91,550.
The job outlook for computer networking professionals is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of network and computer systems administrators will grow 10% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Information about the Department of Informatics
The Department of Informatics at FHSU offers a flexible and forward-thinking education tailored to students' interests in data, analytics, and digital media. This dynamic program empowers students to customize their curriculum and develop cutting-edge skills essential for leadership in today’s technology-driven world. Whether studying on campus or online, students learn to leverage data and technology to solve real-world challenges and shape their own career paths.
As one of the fastest-growing and most in-demand fields, informatics opens the door to a wide range of high-impact, high-paying careers—from data analytics and cybersecurity to digital media and information management. FHSU equips students with expert instruction, hands-on learning opportunities, and strong industry connections to help them succeed in a profession that has quickly become vital across nearly every sector.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Cybersecurity Club: The Cybersecurity Club is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of evolving cybersecurity principles and techniques. Open to all students, regardless of experience or skill level, the club welcomes anyone with an interest in topics such as network security, digital forensics, penetration testing, secure coding, cryptography, reverse engineering, and more. Through hands-on activities and collaborative learning, the club provides a supportive environment for exploring the many facets of cybersecurity.
- Tiger Media Network: TMN is the student-run news outlet at FHSU, offering hands-on experience in various aspects of media production. Open to students with interests in videography, photography, news writing, journalism, and related fields, TMN provides valuable opportunities to develop practical skills while contributing to campus news and storytelling.
- Advanced Technology Student Organization: The Advanced Technology Student Organization (ATSO) offers a collaborative learning environment for students interested in exploring the ever-evolving world of technology. The organization brings together members to support one another’s educational growth while promoting innovation and technological advancement. ATSO’s primary goal is to foster knowledge-sharing and unite students in driving both the organization and FHSU's continued progress in the tech field.
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