Computer networking technicians are called “network mechanics” because of their ability to solve problems in all kinds of network environments. Since just about every business depends on computer networks, computer networking technicians can find job opportunities in every sector. Your job might involve IT infrastructure support and service, information systems, network or systems administration.
Start date
September, January
Length
36 weeks
Locations(s)
ReginaIt’s a career that calls for good analytical and organizational skills. Strong communication skills are also important, because you’ll be the go-to person when people need help resolving network issues.
Computer Networking Technician is an intensive certificate program that will help you launch a career in less than a year. The program is available full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Regina campus. You’ll learn the fundamentals of information technology (IT) with an emphasis on a hands-on approach to installing, maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing computer networking systems and equipment.
Over nine months, you’ll study IT specialties, including:
- desktop support
- server infrastructure
- network infrastructure
- Linux
- security
Equipment is provided for onsite lab learning, including Cisco routers and switches, desktop PCs and small business servers. You’ll have the opportunity to build complex networked computer systems to further your knowledge of working systems.
- write the exam for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) designation; and
- write other industry-recognized exams for Cisco, CompTIA and Microsoft certifications.
Designed with industry input
Get a global learning experience
Career and salary information
Your career
Computer networking technicians work in computer-related support positions in just about every sector. Graduates are working in network administration, computer programming, hardware, applications and systems analysis and design. You might start your career as an IT analyst, help desk analyst, system support specialist, systems administrator, network support or network administrator.
Potential careers
| Sample job title | NOC classification |
|---|---|
| Computer network technician | Computer network & web technicians (22220) |
| Network support analyst | Computer network & web technicians (22220) |
| Help desk technician | User support technicians (22221) |
Admissions
Admission requirements
- Grade 12 with Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30 or Foundations of Math 20 or Pre-Calculus 20*
- English Language Requirement
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
- Math A30
Alternative admission
Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.
ACCUPLACER©
Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.
- 250 Arithmetic
- 247 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
- 250 Reading
- 245 Writing
Post-secondary
Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.
If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.
Admission method
First Qualified/First AdmittedThe First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.
Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.
Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.
See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.
Tuition and fees
Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.
2024-25 academic year
$6,820
International students
View tuition rates for international students.
Courses
Get credit for what you know
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition
Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.
See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.
Transfer credit
Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.
Student awards
Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.
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