Network Systems Specialist at SAIT - Southern Alberta Institute of Technology - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-04

Program overview

Program Overview

The Network Systems Specialist program at SAIT is designed to launch your career in the essential field of computer networking. This program provides hands-on training in various aspects of networking, including design, maintenance, troubleshooting, security, and storage management. By participating in this program, you will gain the skills necessary to become a network technician, IT consultant, or system support specialist. The curriculum emphasizes practical problem-solving and equips you with the knowledge to tackle technical challenges effectively. With a focus on real-world applications, this program prepares you for a successful career in the ever-evolving IT landscape.

Program Structure

The Network Systems Specialist program is structured to be completed in 1 year, offering a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experience. The program is delivered in a blended format, combining both in-person and online classes. Key features of the program structure include:

Duration: 1 year
Delivery Mode: Blended (Main Campus and Online)
Practicum: A practical experience in the final semester to apply skills in a real-world environment
Specialized Intakes: Available for international applicants as a stand-alone program or as part of a program bundle

This program is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of computer networks, ensuring you are job-ready upon graduation.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on training in cloud and server administration, virtualized infrastructure, and Linux administration.
Membership in the Cisco Networking Academy, which specializes in computer networking, troubleshooting, and security.
Practicum experience during the final semester, allowing you to connect with potential employers.
Opportunities to challenge industry-recognized certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Administrator (CCNA), CompTIA A+, and VMware certifications.

Career Options

Graduates of the Network Systems Specialist program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Network Systems Specialist: Responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining network systems to ensure optimal performance.
Network Administrator: Manages and supports network infrastructure, ensuring security and efficiency in operations.
IT Consultant: Provides expert advice to organizations on technology solutions and network strategies.
Network Support Analyst: Troubleshoots and resolves network issues, providing technical support to users.
Technical Support Specialist: Assists clients with technical problems related to network systems and software applications.

These roles are essential in various sectors, including public, private, and community-based organizations, making this program a valuable stepping stone for your career in IT.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit SAIT - Southern Alberta Institute of Technology official website

Last updated on 2025-07-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Network Systems Specialist program, applicants who were educated outside of Canada are required to undergo an international document assessment. This is essential to ensure that your educational qualifications are recognized and evaluated appropriately.

Here are the specific requirements for international students:

Applicants must submit their educational documents, which should include:
- Secondary Education Graduation Diploma (Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Phổ Thông Trung Học)
- Academic transcript (Học Bạ)
- National Exam results (Diem Kỳ Thi Tốt Nghiệp THPT or Giấy Chứng Nhận Tốt Nghiệp THPT)
For post-secondary education, the following documents are required:
- Graduation certificate for:
  - Diploma (Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Cao Đẳng)
  - Bachelor Degree (Bằng Cử Nhân)
  - Master's Degree (Bằng Thạc sĩ)
- Academic transcript

It is important to note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases. Additionally, all documentation must be translated into English, signed, and stamped by a certified translator. We will not accept translations from an associate member.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the Academic Requirements, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support and guidance.

Language Requirements

At SAIT, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency as it is the primary language of instruction for all programs. The institution reserves the right to determine adequate levels of proficiency to ensure the success of applicants in their chosen programs.

Applicants can demonstrate their English language proficiency in one of the following ways:

Submit official transcripts or a completed international document assessment verifying completion of one of the following:
- At least three years of full-time study taught in English at an English-speaking secondary school.
- At least two years of post-secondary education taught in English at a recognized institution.
- Successfully complete a recognized credential from a SAIT-approved post-secondary institution program taught in English.
Successfully complete a post-secondary credit course in English, comparative literature, or communications at SAIT or a recognized institution (minimum C grade required).
Achieve the applicable score on an English assessment test, with the test score being valid within one year prior to the application submission.
Successfully complete the English Language Foundations (ELF) program, with specific courses meeting proficiency requirements.
Complete one of the recognized alternatives to the English Language Foundations program.

For the English assessment tests, the following are accepted:

IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0 in each skill/category for English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.
CAEL: Minimum overall band of 60, with 60 in each skill/category for English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.
TOEFL: Minimum score of 20 in each category for English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53 for English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.
Duolingo: Minimum score of 115 with at least 95 in each individual subscores for English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!