How far does CCNA take you. I read that the entry level to network administrator is a bachelor's degree.
Can I get input on that?
CCNA is the old cert, before the specialization certs came around.
CCNA, the old one, is what is now CCNA: Routing and Switching.
You have CCNA: Routers and Switches which is soly focused and designed towards wired networks, with some Wireless.
Then CCNA: Wireless, which is focused and dedicated to Wireless Networks (LAN, and WAN) and band frequencies and assignments including supporting devices, and some basic Wireless Security.
Then CCNA: VOICE, which is deisgned towards voice, and video communication networks. (like NCIS style in that giant TV room)
Then you have the final CCNA, the CCNA Security.
Touches all levels of Wireless, VOICE, and Hardwired Network and Information Security functional areas, including attacking/defending protocols. (Recognized by the NSA, and CNSS.
Most community colleges like the one Im attending, only does CCNA: Routing and Switching. As is most common. unless you're enrolled into a community college like one further south from mine for their InfoSec program, that does CCNA: Security. In my program we touch some areas of CCNA:Security, but not enough to take the test.
Just to add confusion to the ever changing and advancing IT world. Don't just stop at CCNA after college, go for your CCIE, that is where the real $$$ is.
You got to have your CCNA: R&S to get your Security, or Wireless. It's taken me a couple months to grasp these things, don't worry if it's info overload. It feels like it all just blends into a mess, but really it does make sense as you look into it.
A LOT of employers even don't understand the differences, or just aren't aware of the evolutions in the programs.