There are many career opportunities in Information Technology career fields. Students will study in a wide range of programs that expose them to innovative technologies that impact the world.
Information Technology programs at Northeast Community College offer exceptional flexibility, allowing students to choose between earning one of the following award types based on their career aspirations:
- Associate of Applied Science Degree
- Computer Programming and Data Analytics Concentration
- Cybersecurity and Network Administration Concentration
- Associate of Arts Degree
- Information Technology
- Computer Science
With a range of concentrations and transfer programs, students can tailor their education to suit their interests and the demands of the fast-paced tech industry. The programs provide hands-on experience and industry certifications that help ensure students are ready for the workforce.
Why Students Choose This Program
The National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security have recognized Northeast as a CAE-2Y - National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense 2-Year Education institution, reflecting the program's commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in cybersecurity. Additionally, Northeast is a certified Cisco Networking Academy, providing students with access to cutting-edge training and certifications from one of the leading networking companies in the world. These designations ensure that students graduate with the skills, knowledge, and credentials necessary to excel in the competitive tech industry.
Students have the flexibility to choose from a variety of programs that best fit their career objectives. They can select concentrations in Cybersecurity and Network Administration or Computer Programming and Data Analytics that provide a solid foundation for immediate employment, or choose pathways designed for seamless transfer to a four-year institution. Students can customize their education by selecting key areas of study that align with their specific career goals, ensuring they gain the relevant skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields.
Learn from passionate, experienced instructors who are dedicated to your growth, both in the classroom and as you launch your successful career in the IT field. Faculty all have years of teaching and industry experience.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Northeast’s IT concentrations incorporate the latest software and hardware technologies used in the industry today, providing students with hands-on experience and up-to-date knowledge in areas like cybersecurity, network and system administration, programming, project management, data analysis, algorithms, and more. This exposure ensures that students develop a strong skill set in these high-demand fields, giving them a competitive edge when they transfer to a four-year institution or enter the workforce. The combination of strong academic pathways and industry-relevant skills prepares students for success in both continuing education and professional environments.
Students also have opportunities to tour large companies, to participate in events in the cyber security community, and compete in SkillsUSA.
Key courses include:
- Introduction to Computer Programming
- HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Introduction to Networking
- PC System Maintenance and Repair
- Database Concepts, Design and Application
- Operating Systems
Program Details
Cybersecurity and Network Administration
This concentration focuses on securing and managing IT infrastructure, with an emphasis on networking, cybersecurity, and system administration. It prepares students to protect data, defend against cyber threats, and maintain reliable, secure computer systems.
Key Courses: Principles of Information Security, Cisco Networking, CompTIA Security+ Certification
Computer Programming and Data Analytics
This concentration focuses on building software and analyzing data, combining programming with data science and real-world problem solving. It prepares students to develop applications, work with databases, and turn data into actionable insights using modern tools and AI.
Key Courses: Data Structures and Algorithms, Data Analysis, Programming in Java and C++
Students seeking to transfer should pursue the Information Technology or Computer Science Associate of Science degrees.
Information Technology
This degree focuses on building core IT skills in programming, networking, cybersecurity, and system administration, along with foundational knowledge in databases and web development.
Key Courses: Cisco Networking, Network Servers, Principles of Information Security
Computer Science
This degree focuses on programming and software development, emphasizing languages like Java and C++, data structures, and algorithms.
Key Courses: Data Structure and Algorithms, Programming in JAVA, Programming in C++
AAS and AS programs: 2 years, (63-68 credit hours)
All of the programs have an in-person component, but individual courses may be offered in-person, online, or in a hybrid format.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
Associate of Science (AS)
Information Technology, AS - Transfer Program
Computer Science, AS - Transfer Program
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Computer Programming and Data Analytics, AAS
Cybersecurity and Network Administration, AAS
Based on area of concentration, students also have opportunities to complete Comptia A+, Comptia Security+ certification after they earn the degree. Or, be prepared to successfully pass the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam.
The National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security has designated Northeast Community College as an institution for CAE-2Y - National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense 2-Year Education. The purpose of the National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) program is to promote higher education in Cyber Defense (CD), prepare a growing number of cybersecurity professionals, and to reduce vulnerabilities in the Nation’s networks.
Northeast Cyber Security Center
The following programs feature CAE-CD curriculum content:
- Cybersecurity and Network Administration, AAS
Ryan DeVall, Duncan aviation
Rick Colwell, Continental Tech
Trevor Doyle, Midwest Bank
John Mandel, Vulcraft
Tim Miller, West Point Hospital
Ron Pilcher, Crete Carrier
Jarod Dendiger, Applied Connective
James, My Precision IT
Dan, My Precision IT
Andrew Nilges, North Sioux City Economic Development Director
Melissa Garcia, Daycos
Shonna Dorsey, NTC (Nebraska Tech Collaborative) Paul Feilmeier, Bank First
Wieser, Mitchell (NBT), Nucor
Nic Miller, Daycos
Curtis Scheer, Weiland Doors
Dan Spray, Connecting Point
