Network Operations Center Technicians

High School

Take as many IT classes as possible—especially in computer networking and security. Other useful courses include mathematics, statistics, English, speech, and social studies.

Postsecondary Education

Educational requirements for NOC technicians vary by employer. A small percentage of employers require applicants to have only a high school diploma (but also complete extensive, on-the-job training). Most employers require applicants to have a minimum of an associate’s degree in network administration, management information systems, network security, or a related field. Students are typically required to participate in at least one internship or co-op at a network operations center to obtain experience.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in computer networking that typically last from six months to one year. In-person, online, and hybrid options are available. Typical classes in such a program include Introduction to Network Administration, Core Networking Technologies, and Managing Information Security. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

A variety of webinars, conference seminars, and other continuing education (CE) opportunities are offered by professional associations (such as the Network Professional Association, IEEE Computer Society, Association for Computing Machinery, and CompTIA), for-profit online education providers, and colleges and universities. Webinars offered by the Network Professional Association include Professional Development: Using AI to Boost IT/Networking Infrastructure; Professional Development: Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity; Career Growth: Navigating Job Offers and Negotiating Salaries. Contact these organizations to learn more.