Tech Lifeline
Connect systems, solve problems and secure digital infrastructure.
Launch your tech career in IT, networking and cloud technologies. Owens’ Network Tech I Certificate provides a solid foundation, whether you’re starting your career immediately or advancing toward an associate degree. Employment outlook is exceptionally strong, with above-average growth projected through 2029.
You’ll support office networks, troubleshoot critical systems and help businesses stay connected and secure in a world where technology powers everything. Whether you’re setting up hardware and software, solving network connectivity issues, monitoring systems for security threats or providing essential help desk support, you’ll be the go-to problem solver who keeps the digital world spinning.
Professional qualities that make network techs indispensable:
- Problem-Solving Mindset: Diagnose complex issues, think critically under pressure and deliver practical solutions that keep systems running smoothly.
- Communication Skills: Translate technical complexity into clear explanations and collaborate continuously with teams and end-users.
- Attention to Detail: Follow protocols precisely and spot potential issues before they become costly problems.
Small Classes. Expert Guidance.
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
Certificate
Department
Department of Computer and Information Systems
Required credit hours
19-20
At a Glance
14:1
Student-to-instructor ratio for personalized mentorship and support
2
Industry-standard certifications earned as part of this certificate
2
Semesters of study
Two Semesters: Build. Connect. Deploy.
In your first semester, you’ll dive right into theory and hands-on learning with IT fundamentals, business applications and computer concepts and internet research basics. Sharpen your communication and critical thinking abilities—the power skills that make you invaluable in any team setting.
Immerse yourself in the technical with computer hardware and operating systems and networking technologies. Plus, you’ll explore cloud computing—one of the hottest, fastest-growing areas in tech.
Industry-Recognized Credentials
Through this program, you’ll be prepared to earn these in-demand CompTIA certifications:
- ITF+ (IT fundamentals)
- Cloud+ (cloud computing)
Career Outcomes
By graduation, you’ll have the hands-on experience and practical expertise to launch directly into IT support positions—plus a rock-solid foundation to advance into in-demand networking, systems or cloud careers. You’ll be qualified for roles like help desk technician, network support specialist or IT operations assistant, with starting salaries that reflect your valuable skills.
Whether you jump straight into your career or continue building your expertise through Owens’ Network II Certificate, both paths lead to the booming tech industry.
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, ’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.