The Associate in Science in System Administration prepares students to either enter the workforce as entry-level information and communication technologies (ICT) professionals or pursue a bachelor's degree in managing information systems. Graduates of the Associate in Science in System Administration are prepared and eligible to sit for Microsoft and/or Linux certification exams. Competency in Microsoft® and/or UNIX/Linux systems administration and network administration is required.

A system administrator, or "sysadmin," is a person who is responsible for the upkeep, configuration, and reliable operation of computer systems, especially multi-user computers such as servers. The system administrator seeks to ensure that the uptime, performance, resources, and security of the computers he or she manages meet the needs of the users, without exceeding the budget. To meet these needs a system administrator may acquire, install, or upgrade computer components and software; automate routine tasks; write computer programs; troubleshoot; train and/or supervise staff; and provide technical support. Generally, no courses beyond standard high school diploma requirements are needed to be admitted into these programs. However, most recommend a background in computer science, information systems, and information and communication technologies.

Most graduates enter the workforce as system administrators or sysadmin. New employment opportunities as Storage (SAN) Administrator require the system administrator to create, provision, add, or remove storage to/from computer systems and work with virtualization. Sysadmins can also work as a database administrator, network administrator, security administrator, and/or a web administrator. Tasks include managing multiple sites, administering security, and configuring necessary components and software. Responsibilities may also include software change management.

As the use of technology expands throughout the economy, available positions in system administration are expected to grow. Employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow 5% from 2018 to 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Demand for these workers is high and should continue to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. System Administrators are employed in all industries where there are computers, which means the majority of companies such as in the computer system design and related services industry, financial firms, hospitals, and government offices.

Student Learning Outcomes

- Set up, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot computer systems, stand-alone application, and/or various computer operating systems (client, server, and network).

- Demonstrate an appreciation of the ICT career field and the need to be lifelong learners.

- Demonstrate the basic knowledge and skills of programming languages.