This degree covers network administration technologies, techniques, and the hardware and software used in today’s business/enterprise networking environment. Major topics covered include installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of network operating systems. The degree stresses the knowledge and skills required for the day-to-day operation, business aspects, security and management of computer networks. This degree has three distinct concentrations with specific courses for each concentration track:
1. Microsoft Windows networking concentration, focusing on preparing for the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and/or the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification.
2. Linux/Unix networking concentration, focusing on preparing for the administration of commercial Linux/Unix servers and network environments.
3. Cisco router and network administration concentration, which covers all the objectives of the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification exam.
This degree is designed for career/technical students who plan to enter the work force as well as working IT professionals that wish to upgrade their skills. Typical careers a student could expect to pursue include network technical support staff, network administrators, network designers, network systems engineer, network troubleshooters, and information systems security specialists.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  WINDOWS CONCENTRATION:
install, configure, monitor, manage, backup, and customize a Microsoft server.
✔  design, construct and apply group policies and NTFS file system permissions to secure files and network resources.
✔  design, construct and troubleshoot a Microsoft Active Directory network using Microsoft workstation and server operating systems.
✔  CISCO CONCENTRATION:
✔  design, evaluate, construct and implement a routed IP network using industry standard routing protocols and routing equipment, in a wired or wireless configuration.
✔  design, evaluate, construct and implement a multilayer switching network using switching protocols, such as Ethernet, in a wired or wireless configuration.
✔  design, install and test Wide Area Network (WAN) connectivity solutions.
✔  design and evaluate basic security and access solutions in a switched or routed LAN or WAN.
✔  design, evaluate, specify, and install various types of network media.
✔  LINUX/UNIX CONCENTRATION:
✔  install, configure, monitor, manage, backup, and customize a Linux server.
✔  design, evaluate and implement and troubleshoot typical Linux server services in the areas of user accounts and security, printing, web server, telnet server, firewall, email server, domain name service, dynamic host configuration protocol, network file system, and Microsoft Windows compatibility.

This degree focuses on the use of the microcomputer and current, commonly used software to solve problems in a business environment. Course work includes microcomputer applications in database management, desktop publishing, electronic spreadsheets, presentation graphics, operating systems, word processing, and at least one programming language.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  design and manage database tables, queries and forms.
✔  produce reports for use in a typical business environment.
✔  evaluate the basic computing needs of a business by developing associated documentation and presentations.
✔  create spreadsheet formulas and manipulate business data.
✔  compose and format typical business communications documents according to industry standards.
✔  combine data from different software applications into one document.
✔  compose simple computer programs using basic logic.
✔  apply file management techniques in organizing computer data.

This degree provides a foundation for students to transfer to a CSU campus with a major in Communication, Speech Communication, Communications, or Communication Studies.
The Associate in Arts degree in Communication Studies for Transfer provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements of the California State University for transfer. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system.
A primary skill employers in all fields seek is effective communication. A degree in Communication Studies enriches personal development and enhances opportunities for employment and promotion in such diverse professional fields as education, law, law enforcement, health, science, management, organizational development, psychology, public service, sales, training, entertainment, and social services.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  assess the factors which contribute to communication competency.
✔  generate strategies to communicate effectively with others in dyads, groups, and public situations.
✔  evaluate the role of communication in human interactions.
✔  analyze evidence, reasoning, and persuasive appeals for credibility, logic, and relevance.
✔  demonstrate skills and behaviors which contribute to open and respectful communication of diverse ideas and beliefs.

A major in English offers students an opportunity to take courses in literature, composition, and creative writing. It prepares students for university-level studies in English or other disciplines and also readies students for the workforce by emphasizing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

✔ assess and comprehend texts on a literal level.

✔ analyze texts on thematic, rhetorical, metaphoric, and symbolic levels.

✔ synthesize multiple perspectives on a literary text.

✔ demonstrate an understanding of the social and historical context for a work of literature.

✔ produce and communicate clear and effective arguments and ideas.

This degree offers enterprising individuals an opportunity to develop their own business ventures to perform administrative tasks using new technology and the Internet. The current trend toward "outsourcing" work supports the growing need for virtual professionals. Confidence in being customer focused and creative are essential activities of this program. The goal of the virtual administrative professional degree is to assist students in developing a niche that meets the needs of today's employers.
Typical career opportunities include administrative professional, executive and/or personal assistant, real estate virtual assistant, online assistant, meeting planner, travel planner, desktop publisher, graphic designer, clerical recruiter, newsletter editor, virtual meetings organizer, and virtual assistant. Industries that virtual professionals support are sales, law, finance, church, Internet enterprises, marketing firms, public relations, direct mail, concierge, authors, contractors, and therapists.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  categorize essential records into an adequate record keeping system.
✔  compose written communications and deliver oral presentations for business proposals and projects that focus on the audience.
✔  explain the importance of a business plan, financial plan, and marketing plan for a business.
✔  create, arrange, and edit business documents using word processing features.
✔  select different technologies and software to complete business projects.
✔  design a virtual office atmosphere which includes marketing oneself, satisfying clients, and managing resources and capital.
✔  manipulate and format data into a worksheet and database.
✔  choose appropriate search strategies when using the Internet.

The Associate in Arts in English for Transfer degree offers students an opportunity to take courses in literature, composition, and creative writing. This degree prepares students for transfer-level studies in English at a CSU and also readies students for the workforce by emphasizing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) student completion requirements (as stated in SB1440 law):

(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:

(A) The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements (CSU GE-Breadth).

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students must earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

✔ assess and comprehend texts on a literal level.

✔ analyze texts on thematic, rhetorical, metaphoric, and symbolic levels.

✔ discuss authors, forms, and movements of literature in English by employing terms of literary analysis.

✔ examine literary text in order to demonstrate an understanding of the social and historical context for a work of literature.

✔ produce and communicate clear and effective arguments and ideas.

✔ evaluate and integrate research materials to support an original argument by using current Modern Language Association methods and forms.

This degree is designed to develop advanced skills needed for upper-level administrative support and office management careers. The course work includes communication skills, organizational management, business documents and projects, teamwork, financial data, ethics, and a variety of computer and office technologies.
Typical career opportunities include clerical, administrative support, and executive assistant positions with private industry, non-profit organizations, and government entities.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  manage office operations including employee supervision, records management, supplies and equipment, administrative support, financial statements, and customer service.
✔  evaluate business projects, generate task lists, and prioritize completion of work.
✔  integrate word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, and electronic information management systems to complete business projects.
✔  create, revise, and evaluate verbal and written business messages demonstrating business communication techniques.
✔  utilize critical thinking, problem solving, and organizational management skills to complete work independently or in a group.
✔  analyze ethical dilemmas, utilize ethical decision-making processes, and determine appropriate ethical behavior.

This degree is designed to provide a strong foundation for those entering into a variety of business fields in the private and public sector. It includes coursework that is essential for entry-level positions and enhances the knowledge base of those who are seeking career progression.
Account executive, analyst, bank employee, buyer, clerk, data-entry clerk, data-entry specialist, entrepreneur, financial planner, government service, insurance representative, investment counselor, manager, marketing, market research, office assistant, public administration, purchasing agent, retail/industrial sales.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  identify and explain the major functional areas of business organizations including management, marketing, finance, and accounting.
✔  develop leadership skills and abilities that are effective in managing a multicultural workforce.
✔  analyze practical business problems and utilize critical thinking and research skills in the evaluation of alternative solutions.
✔  apply accounting concepts and principles in making decisions about business operations.
✔  integrate management principles in relationship to finance, personnel, products, services, and information.
✔  communicate effectively verbally and in writing in various business settings.
✔  apply commonly used computer application programs to compose relevant business documents.

The Entrepreneurship degree provides training and education for those wishing to own or manage a small entrepreneurial venture. The various elements involved in starting and operating a small business are covered.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  evaluate the feasibility of success when starting a new business venture.
✔  research and compose a business plan that can be used for planning as well as financing.
✔  employ appropriate management, finance, accounting, and marketing techniques required in operating a business.

The Associate in Science in Business Administration 2.0 for Transfer (AS-T) program provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements for transfer to the California State University. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system. Students should work closely with their American River College counselor to ensure that they are taking the appropriate coursework to prepare for majoring in Business Administration at the institution they wish to transfer to because major and general education requirements may vary for each CSU and the degree may only transfer to specific institutions.
Account executive, analyst, bank employee, buyer, manager, entrepreneur, financial planner, government service, insurance representative, investment counselor, public administration, purchasing agent, retail/industrial sales, stockbroker. Some options may require more than 2 years of study and additional licensing.

Student Learning Outcomes
✔  identify and explain the major functional areas of the business organizations including management, marketing, finance, and accounting.
✔  apply commonly used computer application programs to create relevant business documents.
✔  apply accounting and mathematical concepts and principles in making decisions about business operations.
✔  assess the relationships and interdependencies of economic, social, legal, and global environments in which businesses operate.