Bloomfield College is Now a CISCO Networking Academy

Bloomfield College has become an official Cisco Networking Academy, joining a global network of diverse educational institutions dedicated to the values and mission of Networking Academy and student success.

Cisco is the world leader in networking technology. According to Cisco’s website, since 1997, Cisco CSR has invested in the development and promotion of the Cisco Networking Academy, a Cisco Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

This partnership will provide Networking Engineering majors at Bloomfield College exclusive access to Cisco courses. These courses provide in-depth technology training and encourages students to solve problems and work together, just as they will in the workplace. Cisco’s curriculum is delivered via an online learning platform to make the experience both personally relevant and globally recognized. Its community of support and training centers prepares students with hands-on labs and provides career-building resources to help students transition from classroom to career path.

“I am so pleased that Bloomfield College Network Engineering Program is now part of Cisco Academy,” said Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. “The benefits for our students will be immediate and long-term. This is a very exciting time for the College.”

More than 5.5 million people have joined the Networking Academy and become a force for change in the global economy since 1997. From secondary schools to universities to community organizations, more than 9,000 institutions in 170+ countries offer the Networking Academy curriculum.

“Adding Cisco Academy status to our B.S. in Network Engineering program will give students access to the premier provider of networking software and education, beyond the important theoretical foundation provided in our courses, and state-of-the-art equipment,” said Carolyn Spies, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs. “As a result, our students will be eminently prepared for a career in network administration and highly desirable as employees.”

The Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering program will continue to include the content that elevates the curriculum to the college level; however, becoming a Cisco Networking Academy brings with it many benefits. These benefits include immediate and free access to all Cisco curriculum changes, textbooks, and lab manuals for all Cisco-based courses.

Additionally, students will receive vouchers for discounted certification exam prices; the College will gain access to Cisco’s Packet Tracer, an emulator that mimics the workings of an actual physical network; and the College will receive Cisco equipment for the classroom at a discounted price.

“By becoming a certified Cisco Academy, Bloomfield College becomes a destination institution for students interested in studying Network Engineering,” said Nicole Cibelli, Director of Admission. “The opportunities for hands-on training and credentialing that a Cisco Academy provides will set Bloomfield College apart when students are comparing programs. I am excited to see further growth in this great program.”

Prior to becoming a Cisco Academy, the Network Engineering program at Bloomfield College utilized virtual networking software for teaching purposes. With the appropriate hardware and support, the Network Engineering courses would provide hands-on experience with networking hardware for students. Although the virtual software proved effective, students will now be better prepared for a career in networking by working on actual hardware thanks to Cisco.

Please direct any questions to Nicole Cibelli, Director of Admission, at 973-748-9000 ext. 1230 or nicole_cibelli@bloomfield.edu.