Start Your Career in Networking and IT
Computer networks power nearly every business, hospital and school in the country. The people who design, build and protect those networks are some of the most in-demand workers in technology today. STLCC's Cisco Networking Academy is a certificate of specialization (CS) that prepares you for that career in just 15 credit hours.
Through three hands-on courses, you'll learn how networks function from the ground up and gain the practical skills employers expect. The program is designed to prepare you for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam (200-301), the industry's most recognized entry-level networking certification.
What is the Cisco Networking Academy at St. Louis Community College?
The Cisco Networking Academy is a globally recognized education program created by Cisco Systems to prepare students for careers in networking and information technology. STLCC is proud to be part of this initiative, bringing industry-trusted curriculum and hands-on training to students across the St. Louis region.
Through the program, you'll work through a series of courses that start with the basics of how networks function and build toward more advanced topics, including:
- Network fundamentals and IP addressing.
- Switching and routing with Cisco hardware.
- Wireless networks and enterprise design.
- Network security and threat protection.
- Automation and modern network management.
Each course blends classroom instruction with interactive simulations and lab activities, so you're not just learning concepts, you're applying them the way networking professionals do every day.
The program is designed to prepare you for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA®) certification exam, one of the most respected entry-level credentials in IT. The curriculum also aligns with CompTIA A+ and Security+ standards, giving you a strong foundation for additional certifications and a wide range of entry-level technology roles.
What Can You Do with a Cisco Networking Academy Certificate?
A Cisco Networking Academy certificate opens the door to a career in one of the fastest-growing fields in technology. Most graduates start in entry-level roles such as network technician, help desk technician or IT support specialist, where you'll help set up networks, troubleshoot technical issues and support the people who depend on technology to do their jobs.
As you gain experience and add certifications, you can move into more advanced positions like network administrator, network engineer or systems administrator. Many graduates also branch into specialized, high-demand areas like cybersecurity, cloud computing and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technologies, where skilled workers are in short supply and salaries reflect that demand.
The Cisco certificate is also a strong building block for further education at STLCC. Many students continue on to earn an associate of applied science in network security engineering or cybersecurity, adding deeper expertise and broader career options without starting over.
CS in Cisco Networking Academy
- Degree offered: Certificate of specialization
- Locations: Forest Park, Wildwood
- Hours to complete: 15
- Program contact name: Will Hocker
- Program contact email: whocker@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $127 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Related Programs
At STLCC, you can combine this degree with a number of certificates to enhance your career opportunities, including:
- Network Security Engineering, Associate in Applied Science
- Cybersecurity, Associate in Applied Science or Certificate of Specialization
- CompTIA A+ and Security+ Certifications, Certificate of Specialization
- IT Help Desk/End User Support, Certificate of Specialization
- Network Engineering, Certificate of Specialization
Why Choose STLCC’s Cisco Networking Academy Program
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers, including day and evening classes, in-person and live virtual lectures, as well as online and hybrid options.
Graduate with Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save over $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third lower than other local institutions
Build Skills you Need with Stackable Credentials
Stackable credentials help students level up career opportunities without investing a large amount of time and resources. Students can stack a series of traditional and nontraditional credentials including degrees, certificates, apprenticeships and more.
Get Hands-On Training with Tech Academy
Tech Academy jump-starts tech careers in cybersecurity, software development and network engineering through support of advisors and mentoring from faculty coaches. Free laptop with software, free industry certification exam, paid internship and more.