Mississippi's Computer Networking pathway prepares students for careers installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer networks and infrastructure. Students develop expertise in network design, routing, switching, network security, and administration while understanding networking standards and practices. This pathway serves strong demand for networking professionals across Mississippi's businesses and organizations.
Curriculum emphasizes hands-on networking experience with industry-standard equipment and protocols. Students configure networks, troubleshoot connectivity issues, and manage network security reflecting practices used by IT professionals throughout Mississippi.
Graduates qualify for entry-level networking positions or network support roles with growth potential toward network administration. Many pursue CompTIA or Cisco certifications for career advancement.
Computer Networking at a Glance
2
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Mississippi CTE Standards for Computer Networking require demonstrated competency in network fundamentals, routing, switching, and security. Students must achieve proficiency in industry standards such as CompTIA Network+ aligned with state framework from Mississippi Department of Education and Career Success.
Pathway standards integrate technical knowledge with troubleshooting methodology and security awareness. Students develop understanding of network architecture and best practices.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Information Technology - Year 1 |
| Information Technology - Year 2 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Network Support Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $53,880 - $95,030
Adjusted for cost of living: $61,725
Network Administrator
ExperiencedSalary range: $53,880 - $95,030
Adjusted for cost of living: $86,024
Network Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $73,840 - $115,370
Adjusted for cost of living: $109,646
IT Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $58,360 - $133,270
Adjusted for cost of living: $101,146
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students work with IT departments, ISPs, and technology companies throughout Mississippi, managing network infrastructure.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Mississippi CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Mississippi Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Mississippi's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Mississippi standards and industry needs evolve
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