Getting Started
Start your IT journey with our introductory CIS courses this semester!
All you need to get started is a strong desire to master technology.
Classes are led by instructors in the classroom or you can take them online. And there are hands-on projects that will prepare you for the job market.
- Review Degree Requirements and Course Descriptions and Course Offerings for more information about each CIS courses and each degree and certificate listed below.
- Review the Steps for Registration
Computer Networking and System Administration (CNSA)
Gartner Says 20.8 Billion Connected "Things" Will Be in Use in 2020. The demand for skilled Information Technology employees will sky rocket. Networking, security, storage, and cloud programming will be highly marketable skills. CIS students improve their career prospects by gaining the skills needed in the IT industry.
Cabrillo College's Computer Networking and System Administration program prepares students to work in the Information Technology (IT) industry, specifically in computer networking and system administration. Courses include networking concepts and theory, network infrastructure administration including the Cisco Systems CCNA/CCNP courses, system and network administration using Unix/Linux and Microsoft operating systems, network security, network management, virtualization, storage technologies, and emerging technologies. Various certificate and degree options are available, including courses which transfer to four-year universities for those students pursuing a bachelor degree.
The CNSA program offers various certificate and degree options to prepare you for a career in computer networking and systems administration, update your IT skills, or transfer to a four-year institution.
Degrees and Certificates Available
- CNSA A.S. Degree
- CNSA Certificate of Achievement
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Skills Certificate
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Certificate of Achievement
- Microsoft System Administration Skills Certificate
- UNIX/Linux System Administration Skills Certificate
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals Skills Certificate
Core Courses
- CIS 71 IT Essentials
- CIS 81 Networking Fundamentals and Theory (Cisco CCNA 1)
- CIS 82 Introduction to Routing Technologies and Theory (Cisco CCNA 2)
- CIS 90 Introduction to UNIX/Linux
- CIS 174 Virtualization Infrastructure (VMware ICM)
- CIS 75 Fundamentals of Computer Security
- CIS 194 Microsoft Windows Client Administration
Computer Support Specialist (CSS)
The Computer Support Specialist (CSS) program at Cabrillo prepares students for a career in the field of computer technical support. Courses provide hands-on experience with computer hardware and software, basic networking and help desk concepts. Computer Support Specialist (CSS) program emphasizes communication skills, which are critical to success in this field.
This program helps prepare students for CompTIA certification exams like the A+, Network+ and Security+. CompTIA is the world’s largest developer of vendor-neutral industry certification exams. Many employers value CompTIA certifications. Seventy-four percent of ICT managers say a CompTIA certification is an important factor in considering an employee for a promotion.
Degree and Certificates Available
- Computer Support Specialist (CSS) AS Degree
- Computer Support Specialist (CSS) Certificate of Achievement
- A+ Preparation Skills Certificate
- Computer Support 1 Technician Skills Certificate
Core Courses
- CIS 71 IT Essentials
- CIS 81 Networking Fundamentals and Theory (Cisco CCNA 1)
- CIS 90 Introduction to UNIX/Linux
- CIS 103 Technical Support as a Profession
- CIS 174 Virtualization Infrastructure (VMware ICM)
- CIS 194 Microsoft Windows Client Administration
If you are thinking of transferring to a program to complete your Bachelors Degree, we recommend you work with the Counseling Department first to understand your options.
Bachelors Degree programs in IT
Financial Support for Students
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is a federally funded program intended to support individuals who are seeking to improve their earning potential and career options by increasing skill levels, educational levels, and/or obtaining industry-relevant certification or licensure. Eligible students receive individual orientation and needs assessment, specialized academic counseling, and funds for training expenses, including enrollment fees, required textbooks, school supplies, uniforms and other required tools and materials. They may also receive reimbursement for transportation expenses.
