Cisco Certified Network Associate

Special Purpose Award

Photo of Ethernet and Fibre Optic cables connected to a Router in a networking rack
Photo of Ethernet and Fibre Optic cables connected to a Router in a networking rack
Type of Programme
Part-time
Duration
1 Year
Course Code
CR_KCNAS_6
Entry Requirements
See details below
Application Deadline
2nd September 2024
Location(s)
MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork
Course NFQ Level
Level 6

Josh Reynolds,

Email: (email)

Overview

Cisco Network Academy Programme

Cisco is the major multinational company that produces routers, switches and software that power the Internet and global telecommunications. As such Cisco Certification is recognised worldwide. Cisco has a certification programme for engineers, which they independently verify.

 

The Cisco Network Academy in MTU trains and prepares students with tuition in a classroom surrounding, and hands-on practical training on switches and routers in our two fully equipped networking laboratories. The purpose of this course is to given the student the appropriate knowledge to achieve a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification from Cisco Systems.  As part of the Cisco Network Academy program, MTU provides a certificate of achievement on passing each of the three modules of the course as well as an additional letter for high levels of performance.

 

This qualification is part of the Cisco hierarchy of professional qualification.

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications.html

 

Aims

On completion of all modules, the student will have the requisite knowledge to sit the VUE test (#200-301) which awards the CCNA qualification Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions.

 

Validating Body

Cisco

 

What will I study?

Module 1
Introduction to Networks (ITN)

This module introduces the architecture, structure, functions components and models of the internet and computer networks.  The principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media and operations are introduced to provide a foundation for the CCNA programme. On completion of the module the student will be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches and implement IP addressing schemes.

 

Module 2
Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials (SRWE)

This module describes the architecture, components and operations of routers and switches in a small to medium business network.  This includes wireless local area networks (WLAN) and security concepts.  On completion of the module the student will be able to configure, secure and troubleshoot routers and switches and resolve common issues with virtual LANs and inter-VLAN routing in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

 

Module 3
Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation (ENSA)

This module describes the architectures and considerations related to designing, securing, operating, and troubleshooting enterprise networks. Topics covered are wide area network (WAN) technologies and quality of service (QoS) mechanisms used for secure remote access. It also introduces software-defined networking, virtualisation, and automation concepts that support the digitalisation of networks. On completion of this module the student will be able to configure and troubleshoot enterprise networks and learn to identify and protect against cybersecurity threats.

 

Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for this course, but a basic knowledge of computer networking would be an advantage.

 

What is RPL?

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is when formal recognition is given for what you already know prior to starting on a programme or module. With recognition of prior learning the focus is on learning and not on experience as such. You can apply for RPL in any MTU accredited programme or module. Programmes which are accredited by professional bodies or any external awarding bodies may have their own procedures for RPL which you should refer to.

Fees

€2,250 (excludes VUE exam fee)

  • Please note that applicants will be required to pay an acceptance fee of €500 online if a place on a course is offered, which is deductable from the overall course fee. You will not be charged for applying for the programme by clicking the 'apply now' button, you are only asked to pay an acceptance fee if a place is offered to you and you wish to accept it.

Career options

Graduate Testimonials

Cathal Butler – Automation Engineer at Réalta Technologies

“As an Automation Engineer with Réalta Technologies, I'm often required to collaborate with Network Engineers to work on projects such as introducing a new device to an existing network or setting up the required software applications for assets to operate. I undertook the CCNA programme at MTU to gain a better understanding of what was involved from the network communication aspect so that I could work with the Network Engineers more effectively. Participating in the course helped me to go from not knowing the difference between a switch and a router to having a strong theoretical understanding of how technology like these operate.  I believe that there is no better way to learn something than by doing it and the practical lab sessions offered as part of the course are excellent for being able to apply the theory taught in lectures. I would highly recommend anyone involved in the Automation/Network or IT Industry to participate in the MTU CCNA programme.”

 

Michael Dwane – Security Operations Centre Manager at RTX

“Since moving into a management role, I found that my technical skills were less of a requirement for my day-to-day tasks. The CCNA course at MTU’s Cisco Networking Academy was a great way to keep these skills fresh. Students will learn about networking concepts that are applicable in all enterprise environments such as IP addressing (IPv4 and IPv6), switching and routing as well as security and automation. One of the main reasons for choosing MTU is the facilities available to students, you will be working on physical hardware in their well-equipped labs. The classroom delivery is excellent, informal and fun where all levels of student are catered for by lecturers who have a wealth of knowledge and experience. The CCNA certification is highly regarded by employers and is well worth pursuing upon completion of the course. Overall, I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is beginning their journey in IT, or to those who are seasoned journeymen in the profession.”

 

Joanna Espinosa Gomez – Technical Support Engineer at VMware

“I completed the CCNA course at MTU, and I can confidently say it was a game-changer for my career. The hands-on labs, expert instructors, and collaborative learning environment made the entire experience invaluable. 
The way the course has distributed the classes and the labs, divided down complex topics into digestible and accessible information has made the learning process both enjoyable and effective. The hands-on labs and real-world scenarios that incorporated into the lessons have been invaluable in reinforcing theoretical knowledge and preparing us for practical applications in the field.

I would like to commend the instructor’s clear communication style, patience, and approachability along with their willingness to go above and beyond to address questions, provide additional resources, and offer personalized guidance. These qualities have created a positive and inclusive learning environment that encourages active participation and collaboration among students.”


Megan Maxwell - Cybersecurity Administrator at Ventana Construction Corporation

“ I was fortunate enough to partake in the MTU CCNA program a few years ago and the knowledge I gained from it (and still use!) is invaluable. Getting hands on experience with the hardware and understanding why networks work the way they do in an engaging and interactive environment helps make the hard work worthwhile. The instructors answer any questions you have and ensure you understand each aspect thoroughly, which heightens the course itself.  I strongly recommend the program for helping with your real-world IT challenges!”

 

Jason McNamara - Network Security Administrator / IT Systems Engineer at Infinity IT 

“I had been working for a short time in networking after coming from a low-level software support job. I was not strong in networking at all, but very interested.  Whereas I was slowly gaining experience, I needed more understanding to progress in my role.  This course opened my eyes not only to how to do the work, but also why we need to do it.  MTU provided excellent theory through great instructors who were not only well informed but showed great enthusiasm to teach.  On top of this, the practical side was amazing.  Rooms fitted out with the physical equipment and structure you would see in real life gave the opportunity to test your skill without fear of doing any real damage as well as software to create your networks and run tests. I would highly recommend MTU for this course.  A highly detailed experience that was also fun and interesting.”

 

Shane Purtill – Senior Service Engineer at Mason Technology

"After some years working in industry, I wanted to enhance my technical knowledge and future career prospects.  I have a strong interest in network and IT and decided to pursue further education and completion of the CCNA course.

The course was very challenging throughout, however has been a very rewarding achievement for me both personally and professionally.  

While the course content was initially difficult, the delivery and the content of the course was excellent which gave me the encouragement and motivation to discipline myself to put in the extra hours of study outside of the course hours.  The lecturers were always very approachable, made the course very interesting through theory, practical work and access to the hardware. They also encouraged a lot of interaction and discussion from the participants in the course which also made it more beneficial and added to the learning experience for all.  

Receiving the CISCO qualification has made all the hard work worthwhile and I would highly recommend the course.  

 

Nicola Ruggiero – IT Cloud Architect at Qualcomm 

"My journey with the Cisco CCNA course at MTU in 2020 was an extremely valuable experience that allowed me to delve deep into the core of networking. The course was a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, with many hours dedicated to hands-on lab sessions that helped me familiarize with Cisco devices.

The CCNA certification I achieved after the course was a significant milestone in my career. At the time, I was working as a Technical Support Engineer. The skills and knowledge I gained from the course enabled me to progress to a position as a Network Virtualization Engineer before finally landing my current job as a Cloud Architect.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Cisco CCNA course at MTU to anyone looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of networking and take their career to the next level."


Wendy Twomey – IT Professional

“I had previously worked in the IT field and after taking a few years out, I decided it was time to start with a course to ease myself back into it, while also adding to my qualifications. I already had an interest in Networking and the CCNA course expanded and added to my skill set. The evening hours really worked well and suited my work/study balance and honestly the year course flew by. The Course itself is definitely an eye opener and sets you up for exploring and going into many different Networking/Security fields once completed. Our instructor made this course in my eyes, his enthusiasm and help was never ending and his passion for all things Computers Science/Physics was quite evident. This was a great course for me to start back after such a long gap out of this industry and I would wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone thinking of exploring Network/Security."

 

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