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Defensor1
45 pts.
 Career Advice
Career development, CCNA, CCNP, Certifications, MCSE, Training
I'm interested in getting into the IT field, specifically Networking. Is getting a 4 year degree the best option, or would getting an Associates degree in Networking and additional certifications (CCNA, CCNP, MCSE)from my local community college be an acceptable route?

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ASKED: March 21, 2007  10:40 PM
UPDATED: April 25, 2011  7:58 AM
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You may not be aware of it, but this forum has archives going back quite a while. In late 2005, there were several discussions - and good advice. Look at the "Search for:" above here, and search for career or career advice, and go back a few screens. The more recent ones deal with SAP, but there are a whole bunch that address your question precisely. One key thing (pointed out in some of those posts as well), is that you need to give serious consideration as to how high in the IT hierarchy you intend to go. If you want to go any further than first level manager, you're going to need a 4 year (or better) degree. Good luck, Bob
Last Wiki Answer Submitted:  March 22, 2007  11:42 am  by  Bobkberg   1,070 pts.
All Answer Wiki Contributors:  Bobkberg   1,070 pts.
To see all answers submitted to the Answer Wiki: View Answer History.


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There’s a somewhat related post on SearchNetworking.com: Should you certify before getting a Masters degree?

AmyKucharik
 105 pts.
 

Getting a healthy mix of education and certification is best. You can get a job with an associates and CCNA, but do not stop there. Get that Bachelors and CCNP/CCIE and watch your career rocket…

Sixball
 8,500 pts.
 

I second Sixball on his opinion that “healthy mix of education and certification is best”. This is one of the reasons I see many colleges offering a computer technology degree/computer networking degree which also prepare you for certifications along with the degree. The level of degree or college education depends on factors like the career and level you envision for yourself. An Associate’s degree and some basic certifications will help you enter the job market. However, if you want that your career undergoes an exponential growth, then you should look at getting a bachelors degree.

Eliwood
 10 pts.