What is a CCNA?
Cisco Certified Network Associate is one who has the knowledge and skills to install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot Cisco routers, switches and related networking equipment in a Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN) environment.
What classes do I need to become certified as a CCNA?
To be certified, you must successfully pass the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam as determined by Cisco. The classes we offer to prepare for the required exam are CNT 140 (Cisco Networking Fundamentals), CNT 150 (Cisco Networking Router Technologies), CNT 160 (Cisco Advanced Routing and Switching), and CNT 170 (Cisco Project Based Learning). Cisco certification depends on successful completion of the Cisco CCNA exam, not on completion of the courses at CGCC, although successful completion of the courses helps to prepare you for the Cisco exam.
How long will it take me to finish?
The majority of Cisco classes meet for approximately 3 hours per week for 16 weeks, the length of our usual semester. Summer classes are offered in an accelerated 8 week format in which classes meet for 6 hours per week. Lab time for each full semester class is required to complete assignments and is at least 1 hour per week outside of the scheduled class time. At the rate of one class per semester, the entire sequence would take 4 semesters or 1 _ years to complete. The CNT 140 and CNT 150 classes must be taken sequentially but the CNT160 and CNT170 classes can be taken simultaneously allowing all four courses to be completed in 1 year.
What are the prerequisites and what other courses should I take to be successful?
There are no prerequisites to start the CNT 140 course if the student has prior work experience with computer networks. For students who are new to computers and networking, several foundational courses are highly recommended. Taking these courses will greatly increase the chances of success. The decision should be made by the student with input from the advisor and with consideration given to many factors. We recommend the following courses be taken prior to starting the Cisco program: BPC121AB (MS-DOS Operating System), BPC121AE (Windows 95/98 Desktop Operating System), BPC170 (Computer Maintenance I: A+ prep), MST 140 (Microsoft Networking Essentials) and a Network Operating System (NOS) course such as MST150 (Microsoft Network Administration)
How do I get certified?
Certification is done by Cisco and is contingent upon the student passing the Cisco CCNA exam. Performance in the community college class, while preparing the student for the exam, does not have a bearing on the outcome of the Cisco exam. This exam must be taken at a Sylvan Testing Site (1-800-755-3926). The cost for the exam is $100 per attempt. Students who take and pass all 4 Cisco courses at CGCC can get a discount on the cost of the exam.
What is the cost for the program?
The cost of each class is based on the usual tuition cost for the student (currently $40 per credit for in-state students, and $65 per credit for out-of-state). Fees for these classes are currently $32 per class, which cover the semester registration fee and computer lab fee. The cost for books is separate and approximately $50 per class. Books may be purchased at the campus book store. The total cost of the program (4 courses) at CGCC, including books but not the exams is approximately $800 for in-state students. CGCC reserves the right to increase tuition and fees.
Can I get a degree with these classes?
Chandler-Gilbert offers 2 certificates and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Cisco Networking Technology, based on these classes. A certificate or degree completed at CGCC may enhance your marketability within the computer field, and may be done in addition to obtaining CCNA certification with Cisco. The degree includes classes in Microsoft, Novell, UNIX, Wide Area Networks (WAN), general studies and other classes to develop your knowledge and skills to be able to work with Cisco in a multivendor environment. The AAS degree will also transfer to Arizona State University East into the Bachelor of Applied Science degree with an emphasis in Computer Systems Administration (http://www.east.asu.edu/eastweb/bas/).
How do I sign up for these classes?
We recommend that you speak with an advisor before registering for these classes. A student new to Chandler-Gilbert Community College will need to fill out a Student Information Form and then a Course Selection Form to register for classes. Our offices are open Monday-Thursday, 8:30am - 7:00pm, and Friday, 8:30am - 12:00 noon (closed on Fridays during the summer). We welcome the opportunity to speak with you and help you find the appropriate course to fit your needs. If you would like more information please call Advisement at 480-732-7317.