The Internet is changing life as we know it, bringing new economic and social opportunities to communities throughout the world and increasing the global demand for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills. Innovations such as social networking, cloud computing, e-commerce, Web conferencing and desktop virtualization are changing the way we live, work, play and learn. These capabilities are all powered by networks; and organizations around the world are experiencing a shortage of qualified ICT candidates to design, install and manage these networks.

Students who gain ICT knowledge and hands-on experience through the Friends University Networking Academy courses can earn Cisco career certifications and help fill an estimated 8 million networking jobs around the world. Even during the economic downturn, the job outlook in IT for 2009 is better than that of many other industries since IT is no longer at the periphery of industries but at their competitive core.

Almost every industry relies on IT to effectively meet its business goals. As a Cisco Networking Academy, Friends University is preparing students for networking and IT-related careers in public and private sectors, as well as for higher education in engineering, computer science and related fields. IT-related occupations with average annual openings of more than 100 jobs in Kansas include:

• Computer support specialists
• Computer systems analysts
• Networking and computer systems administrators
• Network systems and data communications analysts

The Web-based Cisco curriculum was developed by educators for simultaneous delivery to all Academy sites through a Global Learning Network. Networking Academy courses include rich multimedia content, Flash-based interactive activities, videos, games and quizzes to support a variety of learning styles and help increase knowledge retention. The Cisco-certified instructors provide face-to-face support in a specially equipped Academy lab to reinforce learning and ensure student progress. Internet-based assessment provides immediate feedback to students and teachers. In addition to networking and IT skills, the program curriculum also reinforces 21st century skills, IT literacy, problem-solving and communication.

Friends University has partnered with SKT Business Communication Solutions to launch the Cisco Networking Academy. The networking academy partners with government agencies, businesses, nonprofits and international NGOs to support students and alumni in their educational, entrepreneurial and occupational endeavors. The Networking Academy global alumni community helps extend the journey by providing continued access to the curriculum, supporting job placement and career development, encouraging participation in community discussions, and providing discounts on Cisco products and services.

All course offerings in the Cisco Networking Academy at Friends University have been approved for GI Bill and Workforce Investment Act coverage.  Prospective participants should consult with their education advisor or workforce professional to discuss qualification.

For more information, please contact Jeanne Patton at 316-295-5600 or cisco@friends.edu. For more information about the Cisco Networking Academy, please visit www.cisco.com/go/netacad.

The Cisco Networking Academy has provided more than 2 million students in more than 165 countries with hands-on IT and networking skills in the latest technology, which have become essential for success in the global economy. Since 1997 in the United States alone, more than 460,000 Networking Academy students have successfully completed a course and been equipped with the Internet technology skills required to help ensure U.S. competitiveness and innovation.