Cisco Networking Academy
Building tomorrow’s network architects, one certification at a time.
🌐 Welcome to Cisco Networking at EBT
The Cisco Networking Academy at The High School for Enterprise, Business and Technology prepares students to become certified and job-ready in networking, IT support, and cybersecurity. As part of a global Cisco initiative, students gain hands-on experience configuring real and virtual networks, while earning stackable certifications recognized by top employers and universities worldwide.
📎 Cisco Networking Academy Overview
📘 What Makes Cisco Networking Unique?
- Global Cisco Curriculum – Used by over 2 million students in 180+ countries
- Stackable Certifications – CCST (IT, Networking, Security) and CCNA-aligned
- Hands-On Labs – Students work with real hardware and Cisco Packet Tracer
- Career-Focused Learning – Prepares students for direct entry into tech careers
🧑🏫 Course Sequence & Skills Covered
Students follow a rigorous, Cisco-approved course pathway:
| Course | Focus | Key Tools & Topics |
|---|---|---|
| Networking Essentials | Introduction to networks and devices | IP addressing, cabling, topologies |
| Cybersecurity Essentials | Threat awareness and protection basics | Firewalls, malware, risk mitigation |
| Introduction to Networks (ITN) | Fundamentals of routing, switching, and protocols | TCP/IP, OSI, command-line setup |
| Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (SRWE) | Intermediate device configuration | VLANs, DHCP, NAT, ACLs |
| Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation (ENSA) | Advanced networking and automation | WANs, VPNs, QoS, SDN, automation |
✔️ Students use both Cisco Packet Tracer and real switches/routers
🏆 Certifications: Cisco & CompTIA-Aligned
Students are eligible to earn stackable Cisco credentials:
| Certification | Description | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CCST: IT | Core IT skills: OS, devices, troubleshooting | Entry |
| CCST: Networking | Network setup, protocols, switching/routing | Entry |
| CCST: Cybersecurity | Network security, threat detection, defense | Entry |
| CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) | Full-stack networking: wired, wireless, security | Associate |
✔️ Students receive free/subsidized vouchers
✔️ Testing occurs onsite or at Pearson VUE partner sites
✔️ Exams align with course progression — students test as they learn
📎 Explore CCST Certifications
📎 Explore the CCNA Certification
🎓 College Articulation & Academic Pathways
Cisco Networking Academy graduates may receive advanced placement or credit through agreements with institutions like:
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[Placeholder Logo] CUNY School of Professional Studies – BS in Information Systems
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[Placeholder Logo] SUNY Canton – AAS in Networking & Cybersecurity
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[Placeholder Logo] NYC College of Technology (City Tech) – BS in Computer Systems
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[Placeholder Logo] Western Governors University (WGU) – BS in Network Operations & Security
💼 IT & Networking Careers
With the CCST and CCNA, students qualify for high-demand roles:
| Job Role | Description | Avg. U.S. Salary* |
|---|---|---|
| IT Support Technician | Troubleshoot hardware, software, networks | $56,000 |
| Help Desk Analyst | Respond to user issues and escalate tickets | $52,000 |
| Network Technician | Support small- to mid-size networks | $62,000 |
| Junior Network Administrator | Configure routers, switches, manage IP schemas | $70,000 |
| Systems Engineer (Entry-Level) | Manage devices, security, cloud access | $80,000 |
| Network Security Specialist | Defend against threats, monitor traffic | $90,000 |
| Cisco Field Engineer | Install and maintain networks for Cisco clients | $85,000 |
*Data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Cisco NetAcad (2024)
🧩 Hands-On Learning & Enrichment
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Real Cisco equipment for lab work
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Virtual labs via Cisco Packet Tracer
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Participation in CyberPatriot, IT competitions, and WBL internships
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Leadership roles in student tech support teams
📥 How to Join
The Cisco Networking Academy is open to 11th and 12th graders. Ideal for students who:
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Enjoy troubleshooting and working with devices
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Are interested in IT, networking, and security careers
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Want to graduate with real-world certifications