Information Technology: Network & User Support
About this program
Sometimes technology fails to do its job. That’s where skilled IT professionals swoop in to save the day. In this program you’ll learn the ins and outs of networks, hardware, and software. Flex your critical thinking skills. And put your analytical mindset to the test. With extensive hands-on training in specialized learning labs, you’ll leave ready to solve all types of technical challenges.
As an Information Technology: Network & User Support student, you're eligible to pursue a dual degree in any of the bachelor of science Information Technology degrees or Building Automation Engineering Technology.
Next steps...
You're on your way to becoming a tomorrow maker.
87%
Overall Placement
Industry-Driven Labs
Seamless Associate-to-Bachelor Degree Pathway
Careers
- Network specialist
- Network technician
- Systems administrator
Courses
At Penn College, we believe your educational experience should go beyond specialized skills. Real-world ready means taking a broader approach that builds communication skills, inspires collaboration, and encourages exploration of arts, history, and science.
Specialization requires in-depth knowledge and high-level proficiency. Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods.
- CIT160Introduction to Programming
- EET145Networking I
- CIT180Introduction to Database
- EET247Networking II
- CIT260Programming II
- CIT230Fundamentals of Information Security
- CIT240Introduction to UNIX/Linux
- CIT273Systems Administration
- MGT115Principles of Management
- PERELCElective Courses - 3 Credits Required
- CIT241Systems Programming
- CIT321IT Service Management
- DNSELCDirected Network and User Support Elective
Perspectives are points of view, offering a variety of ways of understanding, interacting, and influencing the world. Students identify, explain, and utilize the approaches used by academics and professionals to study, analyze, or understand problems, and offer solutions.
- SCIELCScience Elective
What's the difference between Information Technology and Computer Science?
Computer science (CS) is more theoretical, with increased math requirements. Many CS programs have a core focus on programming with a heavy emphasis on algorithm design and computer science theory.
While IT still includes theoretical topics, it is more applied and people-focused, making the tools of computing accessible to fit the needs of people and organizations, as well as creating computing tools and systems to meet user needs. IT is a bit broader at its core as it covers a variety of foundational skills in programming, networking, databases, modern platforms, systems analysis, and cybersecurity, while also allowing for specialization in a given IT area.
Virtual Tour
Information Technology
Get a glimpse inside the labs where future IT professionals learn how to install, configure, and maintain computing systems. Meet Dr. Sandra Gorka, Associate Professor of Computer Science. And check out everything from gaming and simulation spaces to the hands-on labs decided to cyber security, networking, database management, and Linux systems.
Facilities
IT Labs
Apply theory to the real thing in our specialized IT labs. Here, you’ll have access to both physical and virtual labs designed for networking, IT security, operating systems, and gaming. Apply the principles of ethical hacking, intrusion detection, and digital forensics in both physical and virtual environments. Labs also allow students to create 3D models, investigate hypervisors, build networks from bare metal to full production, and simulate a host of applications and network configurations.
Maker Profiles
Alumni
Ekaterina Molostvova
Information Technology
Her goal was to use IT to help others. Today, she's following through on that dream.
Faculty
Sandra Gorka
Information Technology
She empowers students to think critically and innovate solutions for a promising tomorrow.
Leadership
Stacey Hampton
Applied Technology Studies
Electrical
Electronics & Computer Engineering Technology
Engineering & Industrial Design Technology
Information Technology
From leading program tours to lending a hand with course questions, Stacey has a passion for pointing students in the right direction.
Tour Schedule
Seeing is believing.
Think Penn College might be a good fit for you? Make plans to visit and discover what hands-on learning is all about.
Feb 21
Undergraduate Open House
Saturday, February 219 AM - 3 PM
Apr 26
Undergraduate Open House
Sunday, April 269 AM - 3 PM
Internship
Your knowledge in practice
Internships are key for career preparation. Apply your knowledge to the workplace and learn about the industry first-hand.
Related Programs
Follow your passion
Student Life
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Our student chapter of ACM serves as the college's "computer club" as well as a common ground for all those who wish to supplement their education with topics prevalent in the world of computing technology today.
Student Organizations at Penn College
Your college experience is about more than the classroom. Join one of 65+ clubs and organizations, or create your own.
Penn College News
Friday, September 5, 2025
Alpha Chi members collect supplies for Kenya medical clinic
Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Penn College prof to fulfill ‘dream’ with Challenger Game
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
'Inspired by IT'
Study Abroad
Gain global experience
See the world via Williamsport. Take your education abroad and get hands-on experience learning about your industry on a global scale.
More Information
Students must complete all required major courses in the Information Technology: Technical Support Technology Emphasis (those courses with the alpha-designators CIT, EET, and MTH) with a grade of 'C' or higher. Additionally, any course approved for use as Directed Network & User Support Elective must also be completed with a grade of “C” or higher.
This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.
A laptop/notebook computer is required for enrollment in all Information Technology major courses CIT 160 and higher. Laptop specifications
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store and Penn State Computer Store .
Alternative Credit refers to academic credits earned through means other than traditional college course completion, including: credit by exam, articulation, proof of competency gained in high school, work/life experience, and advanced placement.
Visit the Alternative Credit Options page for requirements and procedures and for information on credit through Advanced Placement.
- Mr. James R Ankers, CISSP, CISA, IT Specialist (INFOSEC), United States Navy
- Mr. Daniel J Clarke, '07, Senior Solutions Architect, Arraya Solutions
- Dr. Todd W Griffith, Chief Technology Officer, Discovery Machine Corporation
- Mr. Brandon J Howe, '01, Sr. IT Analyst, Anadarko Petroleum Corp.
- Dr. Karl M Kapp, Assistant Director, Institute for Interactive Technologies, Bloomsburg University
- Mr. Brad E Lenig, 2018, Senior Enterprise Network Engineer, Pennsylvania College of technology
- Dr. Krish Pillai, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Lycoming College
- Mr. Mark J Watson, '85, Administrative Director, Corporate Information Technology, Susquehanna Health