Certificate in Internetworking
Hours: 15 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Internetworking at Fort Hays State University is designed for individuals seeking to build a career in computer networking. This certificate equips students with essential skills and knowledge in information technology, combining theoretical instruction with hands-on experience to prepare them for real-world applications.
The curriculum offers a thorough introduction to networking concepts and practices, with a focus on network design, implementation, and management. Through a combination of coursework and practical lab exercises, students gain valuable technical proficiency applicable across various IT environments.
Offered online and on campus, the certificate provides flexible learning options to accommodate a wide range of learners, making it an accessible and practical choice for those pursuing a foundation in computer networking.
Why pursue a Certificate in Internetworking at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Internetworking equips students with a strong theoretical foundation and practical skills essential for careers in information technology. A key highlight is its integration of the Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) certification, a highly respected industry credential that enhances job prospects and career opportunities.
Structured for flexibility, the certificate is available online and on campus, making it an excellent option for working professionals. Taught by experienced faculty and grounded in hands-on learning, it prepares students to meet the demands of today’s IT industry and advance their careers.
Who is this program for?
The certificate is suited to a wide range of professionals seeking to advance their careers in information technology. Whether strengthening existing IT skills or transitioning into the field, the program offers the flexibility and comprehensive training needed to support professional growth and long-term career development.
- IT professionals seeking career advancement
- Individuals aiming to transition into the IT field
- Students pursuing an IT degree
- Professionals looking to prepare for the CCNA certification
- Tech enthusiasts interested in networking
Real-World Applications
The certificate emphasizes real-world applications, preparing students to transition smoothly from academic study to professional IT environments. Through extensive hands-on labs and projects, students gain practical experience in network design, implementation, and management, simulating real-world challenges to ensure they are ready for the complexities of modern IT infrastructures.
Students also learn the latest networking technologies and protocols, essential for staying current in the rapidly evolving IT industry. The certificate’s alignment with the CCNA certification further enhances its value, equipping students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in a variety of IT roles. This balanced focus on theory and application ensures students are well-prepared and job-ready.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
In the rapidly evolving field of information technology, staying current with the latest advancements is crucial. Fort Hays State University regularly updates the curriculum to incorporate the newest developments in networking. The courses provide access to current resources and tools that align with industry standards and best practices.
Students explore cutting-edge technologies and innovative methodologies, including advanced network security measures and modern approaches to managing network resources. By integrating these emerging trends, the certificate prepares students to adapt effectively to the dynamic IT market. This forward-looking approach equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to remain competitive and successful throughout their careers.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Internetworking emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on activities. Students participate in extensive lab sessions to practice network configurations, security implementations, and troubleshooting within a controlled environment. These practical exercises transform theoretical knowledge into real-world skills, ensuring students become proficient in the latest networking technologies and techniques.
The certificate also incorporates real-world projects that offer valuable industry experience. These opportunities enable students to apply classroom concepts in professional contexts, gaining practical insights and skills relevant to their future careers. This hands-on approach enhances learning while building the confidence and competence necessary to meet the demands of the IT industry.
What You’ll Learn:
- Network design principles
- Implementation techniques
- Network management
- Troubleshooting methods
- Advanced networking technologies
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive online classes
- On-campus labs
- Real-world projects
- Access to Cisco resources
- Expert faculty support
The core curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in networking principles and practices. Students engage in a sequence of courses that integrate theoretical instruction with practical lab exercises, ensuring a deep understanding of essential networking concepts.
Key topics include network fundamentals, routing protocols, switching concepts, and network security. The curriculum aligns with the requirements of the CCNA certification, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed on the exam. This combination of structured coursework and hands-on training prepares students to enter the IT industry with a firm grounding in networking.
INF 291: Internetworking I
Students explore key theories in data communications for global internetworking and apply them through hands-on labs and projects. Topics include the fundamentals of internetworking, the role of protocols, and layered communication within data networks. Students also examine physical and logical addressing, the devices and services that support data communications, and the essential concepts of routing and switching.
INF 292 Internetworking II
This course builds on foundational internetworking concepts related to routing and switching. Students examine key characteristics of Local Area Networks and the roles of switches and routers, while also learning advanced switching concepts through hands-on lab work. The course introduces static and dynamic routing, traffic filtering using access control lists, and essential network services, including DHCP, DNS, and Network Address Translation. It is the second of two courses aligned with the objectives of Cisco’s CCENT certification exam.
INF 680: Networking Architecture and Data Communications I
Students will explore key concepts and theories related to data communications for global internetworking. Topics include the OSI model, physical transmission media, electronic and electromagnetic signaling, analog and digital signaling, line coding, link layer protocols and local addressing, network layer protocols and global addressing, routing and queuing theory, LAN and WAN protocols, and Internet transmission protocols.
Discover the full Certificate in Internetworking course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete the Certificate in Internetworking gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a variety of roles essential to the operation and security of modern network infrastructures. This credential prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities within the IT industry.
Network Administrator
Network administrators manage and maintain an organization’s network systems, including configuring hardware, monitoring performance, and ensuring the efficient operation of these systems. They implement upgrades and enforce security protocols to protect data and maintain network reliability.
Network Engineer
Network engineers design and implement scalable, secure network solutions to support organizational needs. They apply expertise in network architecture, routing, and security, collaborating with IT teams to optimize performance and resolve issues.
IT Support Specialist
IT support specialists provide technical support and troubleshoot hardware and software issues for end-users. They maintain user accounts and ensure smooth IT operations, helping employees work efficiently. Strong problem-solving and communication skills enable them to assist non-technical users effectively.
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
Students pursuing the Certificate in Internetworking may also benefit from exploring related offerings at Fort Hays State University. These additional programs provide opportunities to broaden their knowledge and develop skills across various fields within information technology and beyond.
- Certificate in Business Information Systems
- Minor in Computer Networking
- Minor in Management Information Systems
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Information Systems)
- B.A./B.S. in Information Networking and Telecommunications (Computer Networking and Telecommunications)
- Master of Professional Studies (Computer Networking)
Applicants must be admitted as a degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking student. A background in IT or related fields is also recommended, but optional.
Yes, the Certificate in Internetworking is available online and on campus.
Students will study a curriculum that covers the objectives of the Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) certification. To obtain the certification, they must sit for the examination at an independent testing center.
Students can pursue careers as network administrators, network engineers, IT support specialists, cybersecurity analysts, and systems analysts.
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.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
