Power the Connected World
Command the systems that drive business.
Step into the career that keeps the world connected. Wide Area Networking (WAN) is an essential technology linking offices, cloud applications and storage systems across the globe.
In two years, you’ll become a WAN and cloud networking professional in one of tech’s fastest-growing fields. Earn a marketable associate degree and deploy enterprise network design from the ground up.
Develop core competencies that translate directly to career confidence:
- Deploy virtual systems and build cloud infrastructure
- Implement cloud platforms that transform businesses
- Manage networks that keep businesses running 24/7
- Secure networks with protective protocols
- Troubleshoot and fix complex network issues
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
At Owens, you have a team of dedicated, experienced professionals guiding you. In turn, your faculty will be supported by an Advisory Committee of local professionals.
Our instructors are experts who take pride in your success. Combined with our small class sizes, you’ll get one-on-one mentorship and precise technical feedback tailored to your goals.
Award Type
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Department
Department of Computer and Information Systems
Required Credit Hours
60-64
Your Path Forward
<$9,300
Annual net program costs with financial aid
$41K
Median salary 2 years after graduation
14:1
Student-instructor ratio for personalized mentorship and support
Power the Connected World
Initiate or elevate your IT career with a two-year associate degree that combines cutting-edge theory with real-world application. Work with industry-standard networking equipment in state-of-the-art labs, building and troubleshooting the systems that power today’s digital economy.
Master in-demand skills: Start with IT fundamentals, then advance into specialized areas—wide area networks (WANs), cloud computing and cybersecurity. Code in Python, navigate major cloud platforms, secure networks against threats, and manage both Microsoft and Linux environments.
Gain real experience: Theory meets practice through intensive hands-on projects and optional co-ops. Work directly with the networking equipment, cloud platforms and security tools that define modern IT infrastructure. Develop critical thinking, problem-solving and technical communication skills that set you apart.
By graduation, you’ll have portfolio-ready experience with the complete technology stack that businesses rely on every day. Set yourself apart with the Computer WAN Cloud Tech I Certificate and Computer WAN Cloud Tech II Certificate—perks of this program.
Career Outcomes
Leap into a coveted IT career as a network engineer, network administrator, cloud technician, systems architect or systems administrator. This degree delivers the real-world experience and industry knowledge that employers demand.
Start your career immediately or continue your education—both paths lead to the thriving tech industry. Graduate with industry-recognized credentials that open doors to immediate employment in today’s competitive IT market.
CompTIA certifications:
- Tech+ (FC0-U71) and IC3 (IT fundamentals)
- Network+ (N10-009) (networking technologies)
- Cloud+ (cloud computing)
- Security+ (network security)
- CySA+ (cyber defense)
- Project+ (project management)
- Linux+ (Linux essentials)
Microsoft and more:
- Cisco CCNA (advanced networking)
- Core Microsoft AZ-800 (Microsoft Net Admin I)
- MS AZ-801: Configuring Win Server Hybrid Advanced (Microsoft Net Admin II)
- MO-110: MS Word Associate
- MO-210: MS Excel Associate
- MO0310: MS PowerPoint Associate
- Internet Business Associate Certification (Certified Internet Web Professionals)
Explore the employment data to understand trends in our area.
In Their Words
“Having the equipment to build, test, and learn on made Owens a great place to learn. I also credit the smaller class sizes with the opportunity to take a more in-depth dive to develop my skills through ‘testing and tinkering.’”
Dillion Gibbs, Electrical Engineering and Computer Technologies, STEM, ’22
Getting Started at Owens
Begin your high-quality education at an affordable price today!
Enrollment is easy—just fill out an online admissions application to get started. We’ll ask you to submit your transcripts for course placement and college credit.
Upon acceptance, schedule a meeting with your admissions advisor to register for classes. Next, attend an on-campus orientation and meet with your student financial services advisor to discuss ways to pay for college.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). For more information concerning accreditation standards contact the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), 310 W. Lake St., Suite 111, Elmhurst, IL 60126. phone: (630) 433-4514 web: atmae.org