UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) Program Handbook

Transcription

1 UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) Program Handbook cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp cert

2 Contact Information UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) Continuing Studies Technology, Media and Professional Programs The University of British Columbia UBC Robson Square 800 Robson Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6Z 3B7 Registration and Client Services Tel: Fax: Web: cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp cert This program handbook is current as of January Note that future editions of this program handbook may contain changes to program requirements and policies that supersede those outlined in this book, except where participants are notified otherwise. Copyright 2015 The University of British Columbia All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

3 Contents Program Overview... 1 The Industry Dynamic... 1 The Demand for IT Professionals... 1 Program Meets Industry Needs... 2 Program History... 3 Who Should Take This Program?... 3 Required Knowledge and Skills... 3 Future Career Path... 4 Curriculum... 4 Program Length... 4 Courses... 5 Industry Certifications... 6 Program Learning Format... 6 Ongoing and Integrated Project... 6 Professional Skills... 6 Practicum... 7 Further Industry Exposure... 7 Instructors... 7 Assessment and Graduation Criteria... 7 Program Details and Fees... 9 Program Fees... 9 Student Loans and Funding Options... 9 Program Policies Modifications to the Curriculum Limited Enrolment Availability of Courses Prior Learning Assessment/Advanced Standing Academic Integrity Professional Conduct Use of Information Technology Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy Admission Information Application Process Application Form Evaluation of Applications Contact Us Frequently Asked Questions Administration... 15

4 Program Overview The Industry Dynamic The integrated global economy is constantly evolving, changing to meet new demands, new technologies and new markets. This is particularly true in the realm of Information Technology (IT) where innovation driven by automation dramatically impacts business practices. From cloud computing to mobile workforces, the business of IT continues to drive the need for skilled computer and network professionals. The computer enabled revolution in business has been occurring for decades. The core principle in the revolution is the concept of automation creating business processes that automatically leverage data and information into actionable knowledge for employees and customers. From process automation to business analytics, from social media to location based marketing, the leveraging of information into real time decision support and workflow continues to transform the day to day practice of business. The result of this drive to gather data, organize it, and transform it into useful knowledge continually expands the demand for IT specialists knowledgeable about developing and maintaining computer systems. The outcome is that computer hardware and software systems, integrated via the Internet, are now pervasive in every organization of any size. They are also continually expanding. This is creating a demand for operational level professionals to administer networks in a secure manner. With computer networks becoming more complex, with increasing network security threats and the rapid consumerization of IT, companies are requiring staff to be more capable and possess higher credentials than ever before. The Demand for IT Professionals Today, the number one technical skill set in demand across North America is network administration, closely followed by Windows administration and virtualization 1. This is owing to the continuing growth of the Internet and mobile networks as the leading methods for employee connectivity, partner management and customer communications. With three to four thousand new high tech jobs of all sorts opening annually in British Columbia 2, the IT industry continues to be a sought after career choice. The UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) program is designed to prepare individuals for entry into this exciting and demanding industry. Today, when employers recruit for entry and intermediate level positions, they look for individuals with the technical and professional skills necessary to advance in the company. Being certified in IT today is considered by many companies 1 Taken from Robert Half Technology 2012 survey of 1,600 Chief Information Officers in the United States and Canada. 2 Taken from the 2012 BC Tech Survey. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 1

5 to be an essential requirement for network and security positions. The NSSP program combines a number of the most important IT certifications, including the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT ), CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+ and the VMware Certified Professional (VCP). In addition to industry certifications, employers look for individuals who are team players skilled in communication and knowledgeable about IT workflow and operational processes. The NSSP program provides not only the essential networking and security technical knowledge, but the key business and professional skills needed to succeed in this challenging industry. The job readiness of graduates is enhanced by an opportunity for a two month practicum, enabling students to apply the skills gained in the classroom in a real workplace setting where they add crucial real life experience to their resumé. Program Meets Industry Needs Network systems and security administration is the management of computer networks, ensuring an organization s computer resources and data are secure yet accessible. The UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) has close links with industry and provides up to date applied network administration skills in demand in the Lower Mainland. NSSP is shorter and more applied, and has closer links to industry than earlier programs. NSSP was developed in close collaboration with local industry and leading technology companies to ensure that only relevant skills and technologies are addressed. The result is a streamlined yet comprehensive program that ensures students are well prepared for a successful career in computer network administration, network management and network security. In addition to technical skills, the program delivers key business and professional skills. An integrated project running throughout the program allows project skills, and the relevant business and professional skills to be learnt and applied in a meaningful context. Graduates of the program will be able to understand and cope with the ever increasing demands placed on network professionals, and will be well equipped to compete for entry level and intermediate jobs in network administration and security. NSSP is offered by UBC Continuing Studies, which has specialized in providing quality adult education for 75 years. The program was developed under the guidance of an advisory committee consisting of local industry leaders, IT experts and leading technology companies. The work of the advisory helps ensure the program addresses the key skills and knowledge local industry is in need of, as well as making sure it is academically strong. The program administration ensures that the program curriculum continues to evolve as new technologies, techniques and skills emerge. Students graduate from the program with the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 2

6 Program History UBC Continuing Studies has been offering network administration programs since In 2005 UBC Continuing Studies partnered with BCIT High Tech Professional Programs to create the Network Administration and Security Professional Program (NASP). In the summer of 2012, the NASP program partnership ended, resulting in the launch of the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional (NSSP) in Who Should Take This Program? The target audience for this program is those individuals interested in pursuing positions in network administration and network security. Prospective students include career changers interested in entering the field and individuals currently working in junior positions who want to improve and/or update their skills and credentials for career enhancement. Individuals new to Canada or British Columbia who wish to validate their skill set with industry certifications and a UBC certificate, as well as gain important Canadian experience, will also find the program attractive. Individuals who wish to compete effectively for entry level positions in network administration today must have the following: key technical knowledge of networking, security, operating systems and hardware technologies key professional and business skills a credential from a respected institute of higher learning industry certifications in key technologies demonstrable experience with applying the above skills and knowledge in different contexts, including a real work setting. Required Knowledge and Skills This is a fast paced, intense and challenging program and is designed for those who already have some IT experience or have taken courses in basic computing and networking. Students should have the following skills and experience: a minimum of one year s experience in information technology including: the knowledge required to understand the fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 3

7 an understanding of the basic functionality of the operating system including the ability to perform an operating system installation and the ability to format a harddrive experience with the Windows operating system environment fluency in the English language* (business English written and oral skills) Note: assumes English 12 with C+ or higher or IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) for international applicants. Future Career Path Graduates of NSSP are well equipped to compete for entry level and intermediate level jobs in network administration. While actual jobs obtained will depend on the individual student s background prior to entering the program and their achievement during the program, typical jobs for graduates include: Network Administrator Network Analyst Network Security Analyst Network Manager Security/Network Assistant Systems administrator Curriculum The Network Systems and Security Professional program consists of a number of core courses and special topics. Core courses deliver vendor and industry curriculum in the main areas of network administration such as Windows Desktop/Server, network essentials, network security, Cisco, virtualization, etc. Special topics are shorter courses meant to introduce students and give exposure to leading edge technologies held in particularly high regard by industry. Participants are encouraged to refer to the Network Systems and Security Professional website at cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp cert for current program dates, descriptions and details. Note: the curriculum is subject to change to reflect learner needs and changes in the industry and to make best use of UBC resources. Program Length The UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional is a full time nine month program. The first seven months are spent at UBC Robson Square and the final two months take place at UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 4

8 practicum host companies around the Lower Mainland. Typical hours are 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Self study and project days are built into the program, as are days set aside for taking the required vendor exams. Courses The curriculum is designed to develop job ready technical and professional skills. The program is designed so that as each course is completed a foundation is established upon which each subsequent course will continue to build. Special Topic courses are introduced at the appropriate time in the program, allowing students to get the most out of the time spent on each topic. Core courses in the program include: Networking Essentials (CompTIA Network+) Cisco (CCENT ) Windows 8 Configuration Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012 Administering Windows Server 2012 Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services Virtualization (VCP: VMware Certified Professional) Network Security (CompTIA Security+) Special Topics in the program include: Special Topic 1: Linux Fundamentals Special Topic 2: Cloud Computing Special Topic 3: BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Support Special Topic 4: PowerShell Special Topic 5: Storage Fundamentals Special Topic 6: ITIL Foundation UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 5

9 Industry Certifications The program prepares students for the following leading industry certifications: Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2012 VMware Certified Professional (VCP) CompTIA Network+ CompTIA Security+ Program Learning Format The program is delivered in a series of intensive face to face courses, employing a range of learning modes including lectures, computer labs, seminars, workshops, assignments and group projects. Particular emphasis is placed on developing conceptual and software skills via hands on computer labs, workshops and project work. Ongoing and Integrated Project The program has an ongoing project component that helps ensure all learning is fully integrated across individual courses and applied within a meaningful context. The project is an integral and fully integrated component of the NSSP certificate program. At the end of core courses, time is scheduled for students to apply the recently acquired technical skills to their project. This means that as students progress through the program, their project progressively build in levels of sophistication and complexity. Students graduate with a completed, tangible project portfolio that demonstrates their ability to apply the technical skills learned during the program and their experience working on a real IT project, a valuable asset when meeting prospective employers. Professional Skills Professional and business skills are introduced in the program together with the project. Having a meaningful context in which to apply these non technical skills is very important, both from a motivational and a learning perspective. Fundamental non technical skills such as working in a team/on a project, IT communication, presentation and report writing, personal branding (e.g., using LinkedIn, Facebook, etc., effectively) and interviews and preparation will be covered in NSSP. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 6

10 Practicum The classroom component of the program is complemented by a two month practicum in industry which all students must complete. The practicum provides an excellent opportunity to apply the technical and professional skills and knowledge gained through the program in a real workplace. The practicum is also useful from a personal networking perspective and provides students with valuable work experience for their resume, enabling them to compete more effectively for jobs. Practicums are offered to qualified students where opportunities are available. Most practicums are unpaid and will last for approximately eight weeks. Practicums are subject to the availability of the host companies and the personal suitability of the student. As such, practicum placement is not guaranteed. Students must make a reasonable effort to cooperate in the practicum placement process. Students accepted for a practicum will be considered placed and alternative options will not be considered unless there are special circumstances. Further Industry Exposure We recognize that key to your success in your new career will be an awareness of the job market and an ability to connect and work with influential people and key organizations. To further increase the industry exposure students receive in the program, there will be industry visits to local data centres and leading IT vendors, and talks from local recruiters and IT leaders throughout the program. Instructors Courses in the program are taught by highly qualified professionals with experience in adult education. Our instructors are also industry practitioners often working in the field in which they are teaching. This means our instructors are often experts in their field, bringing a wealth of practical information, experience and an awareness of industry and market trends to the classroom. Assessment and Graduation Criteria Program participants are assessed according to University assessment guidelines to ensure successful acquisition of skills and concepts. Assessment is based on a mixture of attendance, participation, assignments, projects and exams. To receive the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional students must: pass all individual Core Courses in the program (see below for details) pass both the CompTIA vendor exams (to certification vendor standards): CompTIA Network+ Exam N UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 7

11 CompTIA Security+ Exam SY0 401 pass a minimum of two (of three) of the Microsoft vendor exams (to certification vendor standards) from: Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012, Exam 410 Administering Windows Server 2012, Exam 411 Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services, Exam 412 Completion of the vendor certifications is important for student assessment and helps students obtain jobs on graduation. Students must submit a Graduation Request Form (see cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap grade req) with accompanying support documentation within 18 months of the start of the program to receive the certificate. The two month practicum period must also be completed before the certificate is granted. To pass each core course in NSSP, an overall grade of 60% or above is needed. Core course grading will have the following approximate weighting: attendance and class participation: 10% project component: 30% in class assignments/tests: 60% Where there is no project component, the extra weighting for the course grading will be added to the in class assignments/tests. A minimum attendance of 90% is required across the whole program. In a typical educational program, students are obligated to make up for incomplete or failed assignments in a course by retaking the course on their own time at their own expense. Because of the cohort nature of this full time intensive program, this is not always practical or possible. As such, in the case of incomplete or failed assignments, individual accommodations may be made by the program leader to make up for an assignment, project, exam or course. However, in keeping with standard academic practice, students will be required to cover expenses for any additional coursework, supervision or assessment involved. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 8

12 Program Details and Fees View cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp cert for the next program start date. Program Fees Tuition for the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional is $15,000 CDN. All required courseware and software is included in the fee as well as all the following industry exam vouchers: Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Windows Server 2012 (3 exam vouchers) VMware Certified Professional (VCP) CompTIA Network+ CompTIA Security+ A $2,700 CAD deposit is required to guarantee acceptance to the program and must be paid at the time of acceptance into the program, or a minimum of two weeks before the start. This fee confirms your registration in the program. There is no fee to submit an application form. Fees may be paid by Visa, MasterCard, debit card or personal cheque. For domestic students, there are three payment options available, and students should make known their payment preference upon acceptance into the program: 1. full payment on acceptance into the program 2. deposit on acceptance into the program, and full payment two weeks before the program start 3. deposit on acceptance into the program, and the remaining balance paid through six equal monthly installments. International students must pay the program fee in full, 10 business days prior to start of the program. Students are also responsible for obtaining a student work permit to participate in the practicum component of the program. They are also responsible for obtaining adequate medical coverage and accommodation. No deferral of the deposit is allowed. Fees are subject to change. Student Loans and Funding Options Student loans or other government sponsored financial assistance may be available for this program. See cstudies.ubc.ca/tmap student for more details. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 9

13 Program Policies The policies in this section apply to participants enrolled in the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional. Modifications to the Curriculum The courses that comprise the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional will change over time to reflect the needs of participants, new best practices and technologies, and the availability and best use of UBC resources. As certificate programs evolve, the following guidelines apply to minor changes: as the curriculum changes over time, participants are expected to complete the overall requirements that were mandatory at the date of their acceptance into the program the program may also change in duration, number of instructional hours or requirements for completion. In the event of a major program change, participants will be notified of options for completing under old or new program requirements. Limited Enrolment A limited number of applicants are admitted to the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional. This number can vary depending on the availability of instructors and teaching facilities. Meeting minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the program. Availability of Courses Delivery format choices are reviewed regularly to respond to participants needs, changing technologies and availability of facilities. Prior Learning Assessment/Advanced Standing We are unable to accommodate requests for prior learning assessment, course substitution or advanced standing. Academic Integrity UBC Continuing Studies is committed to academic integrity and takes academic misconduct seriously. Penalties for cheating, plagiarizing or other academic misconduct may include dismissal from the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 10

14 program or course with a failing grade and no refund of fees. For information about UBC s policy on this matter, see universitycounsel.ubc.ca/policies/policy85.pdf. Professional Conduct UBC Continuing Studies fosters positive learning environments that respect the diversity of individuals and apply standards in keeping with appropriate conduct in professional workplaces. Students are expected to adhere to professional standards of behaviour. In particular, the ability to work respectfully in a team environment and with other students, instructors and staff is essential. UBC Continuing Studies reserves the right to require a student to withdraw from a program at any time for unsatisfactory professional conduct. In such cases there will be no refund of tuition. Use of Information Technology Participants must abide by the UBC Responsible Use of Information Technology guidelines. For details, see it.ubc.ca/service_catalogue/information_security/security/security_policies.html. Withdrawal and Cancellation Policy Participants may withdraw from the full time intensive program at any time but should notify UBC Continuing Studies Client Services in writing of the reasons for the withdrawal. Tuition fees are nonrefundable. Class and Speaker Cancellations UBC Continuing Studies is sometimes forced to cancel or postpone a course or speaker, or provide substitute lecturers, and does not guarantee that a particular course or speaker will be available at a particular scheduled time. When appropriate, UBC Continuing Studies will schedule an additional course and/or activity. Program Cancellation Please note that this program will be offered only if sufficient numbers of students are enrolled. Notwithstanding your acceptance into the program, this program may be cancelled by UBC Continuing Studies without prior notice at any time up to two weeks before the start of classes. Cancellation may be due to insufficient enrolment or other reasons. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 11

15 Admission Information The UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional has a formal admissions procedure to ensure quality education and student support services. The admissions process also helps to ensure that the needs, intentions and expectations of participants are adequately matched to the program s objectives and capabilities. Application Process A limited number of applicants are admitted to the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional. Information on application forms and supporting documents should be as thorough as possible so that the admissions committee will have sufficient information on which to base their decision. Meeting minimum requirements does not ensure admission to the program. To apply: complete the application form online at cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp app submit the supporting documents required online upon acceptance, submit required fees. Program start dates and admission deadlines are available at cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp cert Application Form Complete the online application form at cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp app, making sure you select Network Systems and Security Professional under the Full Time Programs listing. As well as asking for key personal and contact information, the online application form asks that you provide the following documentation to support your application: a resumé or curriculum vitae documenting your educational achievements and relevant work or volunteer experience a one page letter of intent that specifies your goals and objectives for taking the program two references, preferably work related. Please make sure that the application form and all submitted documentation are in English. Evaluation of Applications An admissions committee reviews all applications. Individuals are advised in writing whether they have been accepted into the program. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 12

16 The final application date for the UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional will be three weeks prior to the planned start date of the program. Contact Us For more information about the program or the application process, please contact us: UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional Continuing Studies Technology, Media and Professional Programs The University of British Columbia 800 Robson Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6Z 3B7 Tel: Fax: Online Application Form: cstudies.ubc.ca/nssp app Frequently Asked Questions What are the procedures to obtain a Student Loan? If you are interested in attending UBC Continuing Studies full time, funding assistance may be available from the Ministry of Advanced Education in the form of a Canada Student Loan. If you qualify for assistance, the amount of funding you receive will depend on your individual situation. Application forms and instructions for completing the forms are available online at Forms may also be picked up at UBC Brock Hall, Financial Aid Office. Government agents and Employment Insurance offices also have the forms available. It can take up to six weeks for Canada Student Loans to arrive at a decision. Policies and procedures vary. Please contact the Canada Student Loans office for details. What is the Program Code I require for my application form? The program code you will require for the student loan application form is UHF8. UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 13

17 What amount of funds may I expect to receive from Canada Student Loans? Maximum loan amounts available from August 1, 2014 to July 31, 2015 are approximately $19,890 for students with dependents and $12,480 for students without dependents. What happens once Student Loans accept my application for sponsorship? Canada Student Loans will advise you of their decision in writing. Payments will be made directly to the student. UBC Continuing Studies is required to submit monthly reports to Canada Student Loans. If for any reason a student's enrollment is terminated, funding will cease and the student is responsible for any outstanding tuition and other related expenses. If you have any questions, please contact your Canada Student Loan office. The Ministry of Advanced Education, Student Services Branch is responsible for managing financial assistance to students. Correspondence Mailing Address: Ministry of Advanced Education Student Services Branch PO Box 9173 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC Canada V8W 9H7 Telephone Numbers: Victoria: BC Lower Mainland: Anywhere else in BC: Fax Numbers: Victoria: Anywhere else in BC: Website: UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 14

18 Administration In addition to the Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional, UBC Continuing Studies offers numerous other programs for professional and educational development. UBC Continuing Studies has won numerous educational awards and is committed to providing leading edge educational opportunities for local, national and international participants. For further information, please go to cstudies.ubc.ca. Program Advisory Committee The UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional was developed by UBC Continuing Studies with significant input from a diverse group of academics and professionals from the public and private sectors. This ensured that the program is both academically strong and meets the increasing demands of industry. The following individuals participated on the program advisory committee: Larry Carson, UBC IT Services Sean Crowe, CISCO Chris Fedje, Telus Bruce Hewer, Soft Landing William Koty, Director, UBC Continuing Studies Mike Lee, Cradlenetworks Jennifer Mielguj, Senior Program Leader, UBC Continuing Studies Ernie Miller, Sierra Systems Peter Moroney, Associate Executive Director, UBC Continuing Studies Trevor Pidcock, SWIM Recruiting Faid Saffou, Program Leader and Lab Manager, UBC Continuing Studies Sandeep Sandhu, IBM UBC Certificate in Network Systems and Security Professional 15