Network and Telecommunications Management
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
The Network and Telecommunications Management major prepares professionals to design, manage, and secure the networks and telecommunications systems that are the backbone of the information age.
The Network and Telecommunications Management major provides a well-designed curriculum with in-depth study of cutting-edge networking technologies from both a theoretical and practical perspective. All core networking courses adopt a hands-on learning approach. Our hybrid laboratory environment allows students to complete practical exercises learning how to set up various wired and wireless networks, configure and manage modern cloud data centers, and monitor and secure critical networks and servers.
Our graduates are highly competitive in the job market, employed by leading networking companies and Fortune 500 corporations.
Why Study Network and Telecommunications Management?
Networking is a key foundation of modern society. The skills required to provision networking and to manage and secure various networks are highly demanded.
The field is highly challenging but both satisfying and rewarding, with ample opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to solve very practical problems that impact people. The program's hands-on learning style and competency-based education make your study full of fun and prepare you well for your career.
Related Skills
- Works well in an environment of constant change
- Critical thinker and problem solver
- Analyzes information, makes appropriate decisions, and solves problems
- Design, analyze, and implement different network technologies
- Research-oriented
- Writes and speaks proficiently
- Possesses computational ability
- Detail-oriented and well organized
- Good multitasking capabilities
- Understands networking, network security, various cutting-edge networking technologies, and related software packages and application programs
Being Successful in the Field
- Having related experience is critical to most employers that hire computer science majors. Obtain an internship, co-op, or part-time job in a relevant area to increase employability.
- Obtain vendor specific certifications or networking certifications to gain a competitive edge.
- Complete informational interviews with current computer science professionals to help establish career goals.
Related Fields
- Network/telecom systems analyst
- Network and wireless security engineer
- Cloud systems analyst
- Network analysts
- Network engineer
- Network administrators
- Mobile and wireless system analysts
- Network research and development engineers
- Network/telecom consultant
- Managers of network engineering
Other Fields
- Network analyst and engineer
- Computer software engineers
- Network security engineer
- Hacking and security analyst
- Cyber and wireless security
Career Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Kayfish | 110 Student Services Building | meturne@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-0735 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tal Parmenter | Old Union 302A | taparma@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-3718 |
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Minimum GPA
2.20
Middle 50% GPA
2.48 - 3.11
Required Courses
None
Recommended Courses
- IT 168, Structured Problem Solving Using The Computer (IAI CS 911)
- IT 170, Scripting Languages and Automation, or IT 178, Computer Application Programming (may be fulfilled by IAI CS 912)
- IT 276, Data Communications
Completing at least IT 168 before transferring is necessary to allow completion of the degree in just 4 semesters following completion of an A.A. or A.S. degree.
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sherry Jerome | Old Union 302D | sjerome@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2801 |
Middle 50% GPA
2.48 - 3.11
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Application Period
Always available.
Application Information
Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.
Major Requirements
- A basic knowledge in telecommunications technologies
- A working knowledge of the information systems processes used in telecommunication systems
- A technical understanding of the design and development of local and wide area networks and national and multinational telecommunications systems
- A knowledge of the economics, regulatory, and public policy aspects of the telecommunications industry
- A basic knowledge of business practices and procedures related to telecommunications industries
- An understanding of the psychological, social, and cultural aspects of using telecommunications technology
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sherry Jerome | Old Union 302D | sjerome@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2801 |