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Advanced Networking & Data Security

Advanced Networking & Data Security (ANDS)
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)

About

The Advanced Networking & Data Security Bachelor of Applied Science degree (ANDS BAS) will enable graduates to meet the needs of a broad scope of information technology skills. TCC has worked to purposefully create curriculum that will build on the Networking and Cybersecurity Associate of Applied Science degree while introducing the higher level knowledge required for networking, system administration and analysis, and database administration.

This degree was created as a pathway for students to become well rounded, soft skilled enabled IT professionals. It seeks to develop not only their technical expertise, but also their ability to work as a team and communicate effectively and professionally. With ethics as its corner stone, graduates will be trained and possess industry certifications in topics such as cloud computing, cybersecurity and forensics, networking, and databases. Students will learn how to properly configure and maintain current and emerging technology for a wide range of business and government applications. By providing a broad-based curriculum, TCC prepares graduates for the challenges of the ever-changing job market. This holistic approach ensures graduates have a competitive edge and possess a broadly desired skill set for future employers.

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Entry Requirements

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Degree Pathway

Detailed degree details below. For more information, review our Frequently Asked Questions.

Before a student is admitted into the program, they must complete the Associate Degree in Networking and Cybersecurity or Associate Degree (or 90 college level credits) in other field and A+ Certification and Network + Certification.

TCC's ANDS BAS degree program prepares students for successful employment. Here's a snapshot of what the program entails:

CORE REQUIREMENTS

PROGRAM MAP

Curriculum Time Limits:

There is a five-year time limit on ALL IT/computer/information management courses or courses transferred from other IT programs into the ANDS BAS Program. While we do realize it may be necessary for some students to spread out the education, it is vital that students complete all IT courses within five years to ensure that the curriculum is as up-to-date as possible. A student may petition their IT faculty advisor for a waiver of this requirement.
It’s important to be aware of how much college costs so you can plan your finances. All online students qualify for WA state resident tuition rates with a waiver, no matter where in the United States they live.

Students are encouraged to review the official Tuition Rates and fees set by the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. Every college also charges campus-based fees, like technology fees or lab fees.
IT Networking Job Classifications

While professionals with information technology degrees could work in any number of fields, TCC’s attention is focused on occupational classifications that most closely reflect natural pathways of networking for graduates of our ANDS degree. Jobs in this classification would include Computer Systems Analysts, Information Security Analysts, Database Administrators, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, and Computer Network Architects.

Computer Systems Analysts

Computer Systems Analysts implement and improve computer systems through analysis of science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems. They analyze user requirements, procedures, and problems to automate or improve existing systems and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and scheduling limitations. They may also analyze or recommend commercially available software.

Information Security Analysts

Information Security Analysts plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. They may also ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. Additionally, they may respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

Database Administrator

Database Administrators apply their knowledge of database administration systems to administer, test, and implement computer databases. They coordinate changes to computer databases and may plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Network and Computer Systems Administrators install, configure, and support an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems or a segment of a network system. They monitor networks to ensure network availability to all system users and may perform necessary maintenance to support network availability. They may also monitor and test Web site performance to ensure Web sites operate correctly and without interruption. They may assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software. They may supervise computer user support specialists and computer network support specialists. They may administer network security measures.

Computer Network Architects

Computer Network Architects design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. They perform network modeling, analysis, and planning. They may also design network and computer security measures. They may research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
There are several Master’s degree-level paths that graduates of the ANDS BAS program have upon completion.

WGU offers Master’s degrees in multiple fields. They accept all Washington BAS degree graduates via a statewide transfer (articulation) agreement.

WGU MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (PDF)

Pacific Lutheran University has a transfer agreement for all TCC BAS degrees to be accepted into all their Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Finance, Master of Science in Marketing Analytics degrees offered through their School of Business.

TCC to PLU

University of Washington-Tacoma’s Milgard School of Business (MSB) program accepts all TCC’s applied bachelor’s degrees into their Master of Science in Business Analytics.

UW Tacoma Memorandum of Understanding (PDF)