anyone know anything about network systems/cisco?

[Tom]

thinking about taking a couple classes at my local junior college to get cisco certified... thinking about a career in network systems.... 2 classes in the upcoming fall and 2 classes in the following spring.... both night classes and 1 night a week, each class lasting only 6 weeks or so before the next one starts up....

anyway.... it's FREE these classes due to my state's education scholarship/grant money.... just wondering if there are jobs out there and a career to be had... that makes good money....?

dont' want to do it, even if the classes and certification are freee if there are no jobs out there or the pay sucks...

supposedly network systems and anything medical are the two hottest most employable most needed fields?

just worried though that besides what i just mentioned if perhaps there ARE jobs but they will go to the people who have actual degrees and the certifications in network systems... as it is i have a bachelor's degree but it's in communications.....?

so anyone who knows about network systems and cisco whether employed now or just knows all about it please respond back with your thoughts and comments! thanks in advance!

[outby43]

I have been in IT for 13 years.  No CCNA but many Microsoft Certs, and I know how the industry works now.  In the 90's all you would need is a basic Cert with no degree in IT and even a year exp..  Times have changed and unfortunately now you will need 5 years exp. minimum with BA in Info Sys and many certs.  This is to get a good job that may start at 60,000 if your lucky.  The experience part will be hard to get.  There are a ton of people that are very qualified that are out of work. Unless you have an interest in networking and are prepared to spend the rest of your life upgrading your Certs and learning new technology then I would forget it.  Go in the medical field.  It will be less time overall spent on education and the pay is good.  The human body never changes but technology always does. Just my 2 cents.