Network and Telecommunications Management
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
Network and telecommunications systems are the backbone of the information age. They include systems we use every day, such as the internet, text messaging, and watching TV. Their main goal is to send a message from one point to another without losing or changing the message.
Professionals in the field design and manage networks. They keep up with technology trends and adapt networks to meet current needs.
The Network and Telecommunications Management major studies the theory and application of cutting-edge technology. We also cover policy issues dealing with data, image, video, and voice delivery. Understanding these policies is essential when designing and managing networks.
Why Study Network and Telecommunications Management?
Studying Network and Telecommunication Management at Illinois State leads to many career options. Our graduates are competitive in the job market. Many hold leadership positions at networking companies and Fortune 500 corporations.
This major is full of hands-on learning experiences. You'll set up wired and wireless networks and implement other cutting-edge network technologies, like software-defined networking. You also get the opportunity to oversee and secure critical networks.
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 Industry Liaison
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Debbie Ungson-Walbert | 208 Bone Student Center | dungson@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2200 |
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
2.63 - 3.33
Required Courses
None
Recommended Courses
To find the course equivalencies at an Illinois community college, please review our Course Articulation Guides.
- Microeconomics (ECO 101)
- Financial Accounting (ACC 131)
- Finite Mathematics (MAT 120) or Calculus I (MAT 145)
- Data Communications (IT 276)
- Structured Problem Solving Using The Computer (IT 168 or IAI CS 911)
- Scripting Languages and Automation, or IT 178, Computer Application Programming (IT 170 or IAI CS 912)
- Hardware & Software Concepts (IT 254)
- Statistics (ECO 138, MQM 100, or PSY 138)
- Small Group Processes (COM 223)
- Elementary Discrete Mathematics (MAT 160)
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.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sherry Jerome | Old Union 302D | sjerome@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2801 |
Minimum GPA
2.20
Middle 50% GPA
2.63 - 3.33
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 |