Information Technology: Network & User Support
About this program
Sometimes technology fails to do its job. That’s where skilled IT professionals swoop in to save the day. In this program you’ll learn the ins and outs of networks, hardware, and software. Flex your critical thinking skills. And put your analytical mindset to the test. With extensive hands-on training in specialized learning labs, you’ll leave ready to solve all types of technical challenges.
As an Information Technology: Network & User Support student, you're eligible to pursue a dual degree in any of the bachelor of science Information Technology degrees or Building Automation Engineering Technology.
Next steps...
You're on your way to becoming a tomorrow maker.
87%
Overall Placement
Industry-Driven Labs
Seamless Associate-to-Bachelor Degree Pathway
Careers
- Network specialist
- Network technician
- Systems administrator
Courses
At Penn College, we believe your educational experience should go beyond specialized skills. Real-world ready means taking a broader approach that builds communication skills, inspires collaboration, and encourages exploration of arts, history, and science.
Specialization requires in-depth knowledge and high-level proficiency. Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods.
- Introduction to Programming (CIT160)
- Networking I (EET145)
- Introduction to Database (CIT180)
- Programming II (CIT260)
- Networking II (EET247)
- Fundamentals of Information Security (CIT230)
- Introduction to UNIX/Linux (CIT240)
- Systems Administration (CIT273)
- Principles of Management (MGT115)
- Systems Programming (CIT241)
- IT Service Management (CIT321)
Perspectives are points of view, offering a variety of ways of understanding, interacting, and influencing the world. Students identify, explain, and utilize the approaches used by academics and professionals to study, analyze, or understand problems, and offer solutions.
What's the difference between Information Technology and Computer Science?
Computer science is more theoretical, with increased math requirements. Many tend to focus on programming or cutting-edge computing, like artificial intelligence and augmented reality.
IT is focused on supporting the user. It is more people-focused, making the tools of computing accessible to fit the needs of people and organizations, as well as creating computing tools and systems to meet the user's needs.
Virtual Tour
Information Technology
Get a glimpse inside the labs where future IT professionals learn how to install, configure, and maintain computing systems. Meet Dr. Sandra Gorka, Associate Professor of Computer Science. And check out everything from gaming and simulation spaces to the hands-on labs decided to cyber security, networking, database management, and Linux systems.
Facilities
IT Labs
Apply theory to the real thing in our specialized IT labs. Here, you’ll have access to both physical and virtual labs designed for networking, IT security, operating systems, and gaming. Apply the principles of ethical hacking, intrusion detection, and digital forensics in both physical and virtual environments. Labs also allow students to create 3D models, investigate hypervisors, build networks from bare metal to full production, and simulate a host of applications and network configurations.
Maker Profiles
Alumni
Ekaterina Molostvova
Information Technology
Her goal was to use IT to help others. Today, she's following through on that dream.
Faculty
Sandra Gorka
Information Technology
She empowers students to think critically and innovate solutions for a promising tomorrow.
Leadership
Stacey Hampton
Applied Technology Studies
Electrical
Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology
Engineering & Industrial Design Technology
Information Technology
From leading program tours to lending a hand with course questions, Stacey has a passion for pointing students in the right direction.
Tour Schedule
Seeing is believing.
Think Penn College might be a good fit for you? Make plans to visit and discover what hands-on learning is all about.
Mar 1
Undergraduate Open House
Saturday, March 19 AM - 3 PM
Apr 6
Undergraduate Open House
Sunday, April 69 AM - 3 PM
Internship
Your knowledge in practice
Internships are key for career preparation. Apply your knowledge to the workplace and learn about the industry first-hand.
Related Programs
Follow your passion
Student Life
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Our student chapter of ACM serves as the college's "computer club" as well as a common ground for all those who wish to supplement their education with topics prevalent in the world of computing technology today.
Student Organizations at Penn College
Your college experience is about more than the classroom. Join one of 65+ clubs and organizations, or create your own.
Penn College News
Monday, December 9, 2024
Penn College student to publish video game on Steam
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Penn College IT prof presents at international conference
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Penn College hosts students/teachers for Cyber Challenge Day
Study Abroad
Gain global experience
See the world via Williamsport. Take your education abroad and get hands-on experience learning about your industry on a global scale.
More Information
Students must complete all required major courses in the Information Technology: Technical Support Technology Emphasis (those courses with the alpha-designators CIT, EET, and MTH) with a grade of 'C' or higher. Additionally, any course approved for use as Directed Network & User Support Elective must also be completed with a grade of “C” or higher.
This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.
A laptop/notebook computer is required for enrollment in all Information Technology major courses CIT 160 and higher. Laptop specifications
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store and Penn State Computer Store .
Alternative Credit refers to academic credits earned through means other than traditional college course completion, including: credit by exam, articulation, proof of competency gained in high school, work/life experience, and advanced placement.
Visit the Alternative Credit Options page for requirements and procedures and for information on credit through Advanced Placement.
- Mr. James R Ankers, CISSP, CISA, IT Specialist (INFOSEC), United States Navy
- Mr. Daniel J Clarke, '07, Senior Solutions Architect, Arraya Solutions
- Dr. Todd W Griffith, Chief Technology Officer, Discovery Machine Corporation
- Mr. Brandon J Howe, '01, Sr. IT Analyst, Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
- Dr. Karl M Kapp, Assistant Director, Institute for Interactive Technologies, Bloomsburg University
- Dr. Krish Pillai, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Lycoming College
- Mr. Mark J Watson, '85, Administrative Director, Corporate Information Technology, Susquehanna Health
