Build the technology skills organizations depend on every day
From healthcare systems and schools to small businesses and global enterprises, every organization relies on professionals who can keep networks running, troubleshoot technical problems, and support the technology that powers daily operations. River Valley’s Information Technology & Network Administration Associate of Science degree prepares you to become one of those professionals.
Hands-on techical training
Through a blend of hands-on technical training and general education coursework, you’ll develop the practical skills employers seek while strengthening your communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. You’ll gain experience configuring networks, administering Windows and Linux systems, supporting users, implementing virtualization technologies, and applying cybersecurity best practices in modern IT environments.
Along the way, you’ll learn how to:
- Design, configure, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.
- Administer and maintain Windows Server and Linux operating systems.
- Support enterprise technologies including virtualization and storage solutions.
- Apply security principles to protect organizational systems and data.
- Analyze technical issues and develop effective solutions.
- Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Work collaboratively and professionally in team-based environments.
Achieve your goals
Whether you’re just beginning your educational journey, returning to school to advance your career, or transferring from another institution, this program provides the flexibility and foundation to help you achieve your goals.
Careeres
Graduates may pursue careers as;
- network support specialists
- systems support technicians
- help desk professionals
- infrastructure technicians
- junior network administrators
Transfer
Students planning to continue their education can transfer into bachelor’s degree programs in Information Technology, Computer Science, Applied Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and related fields.
To develop and train information technology and networking administration professionals who can help companies manage and protect their systems.
Program Goals
The goal of the Information Technology and Network Administration program is to give students the knowledge and experience to advance themselves in their career of choice.
Program Outcomes
The proposed program will provide students with a strong foundation of understanding in information technology and networking. Students will learn:
- The focused discipline of networking in technology and develop a foundation of knowledge of the field
- To write clearly and effectively for defined audiences through a variety of strategies
- The purpose behind their field of study, how to best interact with the people in their work environment and the career path that is best aligned with their personal goals
- How to use multiple operating systems commonly found in the technology field today
- Basic security principles for information assurance
- The basics of descriptive and inferential statistics
- Computer networking through the introduction of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, the TCP/IP protocol suite, routing and switching protocols, Wide Area Network services, and network design & implementation
- A programming language and be able to design and implement simple programs dealing with numerical and string processing
- To implement, maintain and protect a Microsoft Windows Server Domain
- Graphical and command line SQL methods of creating relational databases
- To perform ordinary tasks in the Linux operating systems
- The methods in which emerging technologies can be deployed on current and future platforms
- How to succeed in a networking technology position through an Internship or Capstone course
Information Technology and Network Administration is an open enrollment program. This means we accept students once they are accepted to River Valley; no requirements necessary. At RVCC, we believe all students should be able to complete a degree and be able to transfer or start their career as smoothly as possible.
If you have any questions about Information Technology and Network Administration, please do not hesitate to request information or reach out to the faculty.
Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
First Year: Spring Semester
Second Year: Fall Semester
Second Year: Spring Semester
Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Associate of Science degree prepares students to protect organizations against evolving digital threats through a comprehensive study of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and practices. Reflecting the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, the program has evolved from its original healthcare-specific focus to provide a balanced, industry-wide approach that prepares graduates to secure information systems across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, business, government, education, finance, and critical infrastructure.
The curriculum integrates technical coursework with general education to develop both the practical and professional competencies expected of today’s cybersecurity workforce. Students gain hands-on experience securing networks and operating systems, investigating cyber incidents, analyzing vulnerabilities, and implementing defensive strategies while developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as cybersecurity analyst, information security specialist, security operations center (SOC) analyst, and IT security specialist. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, and related disciplines.
Recognizing the changing nature of cyber threats, the updated curriculum includes coursework in Security and AI Concepts, examining both the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence in cybersecurity environments, and Ethical Hacking, which introduces penetration testing methodologies and adversarial thinking used to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Coursework supports preparation for industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and other credentials that enhance career readiness and professional advancement.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train cybersecurity professionals who can protect organizational systems, networks, data, and emerging technologies through ethical practice, technical expertise, and lifelong learning in an evolving digital landscape.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Cybersecurity degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational cybersecurity concepts and frameworks to protect information systems and organizational assets.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks using industry-standard security controls and best practices.
- Configure, monitor, and secure networks, operating systems, and endpoint devices within enterprise environments.
- Analyze security events and incidents to support detection, response, investigation, and recovery efforts.
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and apply ethical hacking methodologies to identify weaknesses and recommend remediation strategies.
- Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and implement strategies to address the security challenges and opportunities they present.
- Administer and support Windows and Linux operating systems commonly found in cybersecurity environments.
- Apply principles of digital forensics to preserve, examine, and interpret evidence related to cyber incidents.
- Communicate technical information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences through written, verbal, and collaborative methods.
- Demonstrate ethical reasoning, professionalism, and legal awareness in the practice of cybersecurity.
- Integrate technical knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for employment, professional certification, and continued academic study.
- Evaluate career pathways and educational opportunities that support advancement into specialized cybersecurity roles and bachelor’s degree programs.
NOTE
* Many courses have co/prerequisites. See course descriptions for requirements.
** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework and elective selection. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Associate of Science degree prepares students to protect organizations against evolving digital threats through a comprehensive study of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and practices. Reflecting the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, the program has evolved from its original healthcare-specific focus to provide a balanced, industry-wide approach that prepares graduates to secure information systems across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, business, government, education, finance, and critical infrastructure.
The curriculum integrates technical coursework with general education to develop both the practical and professional competencies expected of today’s cybersecurity workforce. Students gain hands-on experience securing networks and operating systems, investigating cyber incidents, analyzing vulnerabilities, and implementing defensive strategies while developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as cybersecurity analyst, information security specialist, security operations center (SOC) analyst, and IT security specialist. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, and related disciplines.
Recognizing the changing nature of cyber threats, the updated curriculum includes coursework in Security and AI Concepts, examining both the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence in cybersecurity environments, and Ethical Hacking, which introduces penetration testing methodologies and adversarial thinking used to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Coursework supports preparation for industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and other credentials that enhance career readiness and professional advancement.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train cybersecurity professionals who can protect organizational systems, networks, data, and emerging technologies through ethical practice, technical expertise, and lifelong learning in an evolving digital landscape.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Cybersecurity degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational cybersecurity concepts and frameworks to protect information systems and organizational assets.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks using industry-standard security controls and best practices.
- Configure, monitor, and secure networks, operating systems, and endpoint devices within enterprise environments.
- Analyze security events and incidents to support detection, response, investigation, and recovery efforts.
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and apply ethical hacking methodologies to identify weaknesses and recommend remediation strategies.
- Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and implement strategies to address the security challenges and opportunities they present.
- Administer and support Windows and Linux operating systems commonly found in cybersecurity environments.
- Apply principles of digital forensics to preserve, examine, and interpret evidence related to cyber incidents.
- Communicate technical information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences through written, verbal, and collaborative methods.
- Demonstrate ethical reasoning, professionalism, and legal awareness in the practice of cybersecurity.
- Integrate technical knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for employment, professional certification, and continued academic study.
- Evaluate career pathways and educational opportunities that support advancement into specialized cybersecurity roles and bachelor’s degree programs.
NOTE
* Many courses have co/prerequisites. See course descriptions for requirements.
** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework and elective selection. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Associate of Science degree prepares students to protect organizations against evolving digital threats through a comprehensive study of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and practices. Reflecting the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, the program has evolved from its original healthcare-specific focus to provide a balanced, industry-wide approach that prepares graduates to secure information systems across a variety of sectors, including healthcare, business, government, education, finance, and critical infrastructure.
The curriculum integrates technical coursework with general education to develop both the practical and professional competencies expected of today’s cybersecurity workforce. Students gain hands-on experience securing networks and operating systems, investigating cyber incidents, analyzing vulnerabilities, and implementing defensive strategies while developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as cybersecurity analyst, information security specialist, security operations center (SOC) analyst, and IT security specialist. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Digital Forensics, and related disciplines.
Recognizing the changing nature of cyber threats, the updated curriculum includes coursework in Security and AI Concepts, examining both the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence in cybersecurity environments, and Ethical Hacking, which introduces penetration testing methodologies and adversarial thinking used to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Coursework supports preparation for industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and other credentials that enhance career readiness and professional advancement.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train cybersecurity professionals who can protect organizational systems, networks, data, and emerging technologies through ethical practice, technical expertise, and lifelong learning in an evolving digital landscape.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Cybersecurity degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational cybersecurity concepts and frameworks to protect information systems and organizational assets.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks using industry-standard security controls and best practices.
- Configure, monitor, and secure networks, operating systems, and endpoint devices within enterprise environments.
- Analyze security events and incidents to support detection, response, investigation, and recovery efforts.
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and apply ethical hacking methodologies to identify weaknesses and recommend remediation strategies.
- Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and implement strategies to address the security challenges and opportunities they present.
- Administer and support Windows and Linux operating systems commonly found in cybersecurity environments.
- Apply principles of digital forensics to preserve, examine, and interpret evidence related to cyber incidents.
- Communicate technical information effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences through written, verbal, and collaborative methods.
- Demonstrate ethical reasoning, professionalism, and legal awareness in the practice of cybersecurity.
- Integrate technical knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for employment, professional certification, and continued academic study.
- Evaluate career pathways and educational opportunities that support advancement into specialized cybersecurity roles and bachelor’s degree programs.
NOTE
* Many courses have co/prerequisites. See course descriptions for requirements.
** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework and elective selection. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
STEM and Advanced Manufacturing