FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - CCNA

The following are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.  If you still need assistance please email or call us at 586.445.7166.
Are there any prerequisites?
Yes, ITCS-1010. If you have previous networking experience or have completed the appropriate course work you can request a waiver for the prerequisite. Please call the Information Technology department at (586.445.7167) for more information.
How many classes are required?
There are a total of 4 classes (ITNC-1000, ITNC-1100, ITNC-2000, ITNC-2100), which are 4 credit hours each that will prepare you for the CCNA exam. The classes must be taken in sequence. All 16 credit hours can be applied toward your Macomb Community College Networking associate's degree.
Can I take the Cisco Academy classes concurrently?
No. Cisco requires that the previously class be completed before moving on to the next class in the sequence. For example if you are enrolled in ITNC-1000, you must complete and pass ITNC-1000 before enrolling in ITNC-1100, ITNC-2000, or ITNC-2100.
When are the classes offered?
Day and evening classes will be offered in the fall and spring (winter) terms. Depending on demand summer classes may be offered as well.
Who developed the curriculum?
The curriculum has been developed entirely by Cisco. Although it is intended to prepare you for the CCNA certification, the course content is general enough to be relevant to many vendors' particular equipment.
Are your instructor's certified?
Yes. Instructors that teach the CCNA classes have to be certified by Cisco.
How many exams will I be required to take?
It depends on the particular ITNC class. However you can expect to take an exam after studying each module (approximately 10 per class) and a comprehensive final exam. In addition you will be required to perform a skills based test, which will assess your ability to apply what you have learned in a real world situation.
How many labs will I be required to complete?
Considerable emphasis has been placed on the "hands-on" experience. Depending on the class you will be required to complete between 20 and 50 lab exercises per ITNC course.
What is the job market like for individuals with a CCNA certification?
There are numerous reports that predict that the Information Technology job market will be very strong in the near future. A recent report by the Department of Labor Statistics predicts that United States will need millions of educated workers in the coming years. And that 8 of the 10 top fastest growing occupations are in Information Technology including the field of computer networking.
How much money can I make with a CCNA certification?
Wages for individuals with Cisco certifications will vary. Along with the certification, degrees and relevant work experience contribute significantly. For additional information on current salaries please visit http://www.tcpmag.com/salarysurveys.
Where can I find more information?
For additional information on the Cisco Academy please visit the Cisco Academy website http://cisco.netacad.net/
Where are the classes offered?
Currently all classes will be offered only at the South Campus.
Are classes offered online?
No. The Cisco Academy classes are very "hands-on" and therefore require you to attend class and gain experience with the Cisco equipment.
What kind of equipment will I get to use?
You will be trained on the latest Cisco routers and switches. In addition we have Cisco firewall, VPN, and IP Telephony equipment for use where appropriate. All equipment must meet the Cisco Academy's strict guidelines.
Will you be offering other Cisco Academy courses?
Currently no. But it is highly likely that Macomb will be in the very near future.
How do I register?
Please view our registration information.
How much do the classes cost?
The cost is the same as any other IT class at Macomb.