Polaris Career Center Computer Networking Academy
The Computer Networking Academy at Polaris Career Center offers the latest in technology and learning systems to prepare students for the high-wage, high-demand fields of computer networking, programming and cybersecurity. Computer Networking Academy students will have the opportunity to earn up to 24 college credits from Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) while preparing for valuable industry certifications from Cisco, CompTIA and Microsoft.
Students with strong math ability who receive instructor recommendation and successfully complete IT-1025 will be invited to participate in the Computer Networking Academy program at Polaris during their junior and senior years. With additional study, they will have the opportunity to earn industry certifications from CompTIA, Microsoft and Cisco.
Optional courses are designed to provide students with a strong information technology background are also available.
Upon successful completion of the Polaris program, students may seek employment, complete the remaining requirements to earn an associate degree at Tri-C or work toward a bachelor’s degree by transferring program credits from Tri-C to one of several four-year institutions.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees in the Information Technology field can expect to earn an average salary between $52,810 - $114,520, while employment in IT is expected to grow 13 percent through 2026.
Program Sequence
| Grade Level | Course Detail | Course Number/Title | Credit Hours | Location |
| 9th/10th Grade |
Semester-long Prerequisite |
IT 1025: Information Technology Concepts for Programmers | 3 |
Varies |
|
Optional Courses |
IT-1090: Computer Applications | 3 |
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|
|
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EET-1015: Introduction to Computer Maintenance and Repair | 3 |
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| 11th Grade | First Semeter 16-week course | ITNT 2300: Networking Fundamentals | 3 | Polaris |
| Second Semester 16-week course | ITNT 2370: Network Security Fundamentals | 3 | Polaris | |
| Second Semester 16-week course | EET 1150: Introduction to Web Programming | 3 | Polaris | |
| 12th Grade | First Semester 16-week course | EET-1302: Cisco I - Basic Networking Technology | 3 | Polaris |
| Second Semester 16-week course | EET 1312: Cisco II - Basic Routing and Switching I | 3 | Polaris |
*These courses (IT-1025, IT-1090 and EET-1015) can be taken online or in person at any Tri-C campus location.
*Optional courses may be taken at any time.
Part I: Information Technology Concepts for Programmers
An introductory course offered to 9th and 10th grade students, IT-1025 is designed for individuals pursuing careers in programming, networking and general information technology fields. Students gain exposure to computer, networking and programming concepts.
Those who successfully complete Information Technology Concepts for Programmers may be eligible to enroll in the Computer Networking Academy program, housed on the Polaris Career Center main campus. IT-1025 is a required prerequisite for enrollment in the Computer Networking Academy program.
Optional Courses
IT-1090: Computer Applications
An overview of the computer techniques and skills used in a professional environment. Instruction and hands-on training in file management, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, electronic collaboration and professional internet usage. Practical applications in researching, creating, editing, saving, presenting and printing computer-generated materials in a professional manner.
EET-1015: Introduction to Computer Maintenance and Repair
An introduction to the field of personal computer maintenance and repair. Overview of hardware and software components associated with personal computer systems. Survey of techniques and methods used by technicians to maintain, repair, troubleshoot and upgrade personal computers. Coverage of both interpersonal and technical abilities necessary for success in the industry. Students must successfully complete or concurrently enroll in IT-1090 to take this course.
Part II: Computer Networking Academy Program
The next step in the Computer Networking Academy, this two-year program provides a broad-based understanding of basic programming, networking and computer security technologies. Students have opportunities to earn industry certifications from CompTIA, Microsoft and Cisco.