Cisco Networking Academy

Building tomorrow’s network architects, one certification at a time.

Welcome to Cisco Networking

The Cisco Networking Academy at Brooklyn Nexus High School, 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

🎓College Articulation & Academic Pathways

Cisco Networking Academy graduates may receive advanced placement or credit through agreements with institutions like:

  •  CUNY School of Professional Studies – BS in Information Systems
  • SUNY Canton – AAS in Networking & Cybersecurity
  •  NYC College of Technology (City Tech) – BS in Computer Systems
  • Western Governors University (WGU) – BS in Network Operations & Security
IT & Networking Careers

💼 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)
Course Sequence & Skills Covered

🧑‍🏫 Course Sequence & Skills Covered

Students follow a rigorous, Cisco-approved course pathway:

Course
Networking Essentials

Focus: Introduction to networks and devices

IP Addressing Cabling Topologies
Cybersecurity Essentials

Focus: Threat awareness and protection basics

Firewalls Malware Risk Mitigation
Introduction to Networks (ITN)

Focus: Fundamentals of routing, switching, and protocols

TCP/IP OSI Command-Line Setup
Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (SRWE)

Focus: Intermediate device configuration

VLANs DHCP NAT ACLs
Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation (ENSA)

Focus: Advanced networking and automation

WANs VPNs QoS SDN Automation
✔ Students use both Cisco Packet Tracer and real switches/routers
Certifications Section

🏆 Certifications: Cisco & CompTIA-Aligned

Students are eligible to earn stackable Cisco credentials:

Certification 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

🧩Hands-On Learning & Enrichment

  • Real Cisco equipment for lab work
  • Virtual labs via Cisco Packet Tracer
  • Participation in CyberPatriot, IT competitions, and WBL internships
  • 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:

  • Enjoy troubleshooting and working with devices
  • Are interested in IT, networking, and security careers
  • Want to graduate with real-world certifications

Visit Our School

Experience our school community firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our campus, meet our staff, and learn more about the programs and opportunities available to our students.

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