Scope and Sequence: CCNA Exploration
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Target Audience
The Cisco® CCNA® Exploration curriculum is designed for Cisco Networking Academy® students who are seeking
entry-level information and communication technology (ICT) skills. CCNA Exploration provides an integrated and
comprehensive coverage of networking topics, from fundamentals to advanced applications and services, while
providing opportunities for hands-on practical experience and soft-skills development.
While primarily designed for postsecondary institutions, the curriculum is appropriate for students at many
education levels if they have the required skills, and if the instructional approach complements their learning style
and educational goals.

Prerequisites
CCNA Exploration is designed for students with advanced problem solving and analytical skills, such as students
pursuing degrees in engineering, information technology, math, or science. Students are expected to know binary
math and understand the concept of algorithms.
CCNA Exploration is composed of four courses: Network Fundamentals, Routing Protocols and Concepts, LAN
Switching and Wireless, and Accessing the WAN. Network Fundamentals is the first course and it has no
prerequisites. It is a prerequisite for the other three courses.
Routing Protocols and Concepts is the preferred second course in the sequence, but variations are possible as
shown in Figure 1. LAN Switching and Wireless can be taught before Routing Protocols and Concepts, or
concurrently. Network Fundamentals, Routing Protocols and Concepts, and LAN Switching and Wireless are all
prerequisites for Accessing the WAN.


Target Certifications
After completing all four courses of CCNA Exploration, students will be prepared to take the Cisco CCNA
certification exam.

Curriculum Description
CCNA Exploration teaches networking based on technology, covering networking concepts using a top-down,
theoretical, and integrated approach – from network applications to the network protocols and services provided to
those applications by the lower layers of the network. CCNA Exploration includes the following features:
● Students learn the basics of routing, switching, and advanced technologies to prepare for Cisco CCNA
certification and entry-level networking careers
● The curriculum discusses networking concepts in depth and uses language that allows for integration with
engineering concepts, providing a deep, theoretical understanding of networking concepts for experienced
learners with advanced problem-solving and analytical skills.
● Courses emphasize critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and the practical application of skills
● Rich multimedia content, including Flash-based interactive activities, videos, games, and quizzes, addresses
a variety of learning styles and help stimulate learning and increase knowledge retention
● Hands-on labs and Packet Tracer simulation-based learning activities help students develop critical thinking
and complex problem solving skills
● Innovative assessments provide immediate feedback to support the evaluation of knowledge and acquired
skills
● Provides students with the skills needed to succeed in networking-related degree programs

Curriculum Goals and Objectives
This curriculum provides students with the skills needed to succeed in networking-related degree programs and
helps them prepare for CCNA certification. It also helps students develop the skills necessary to fulfill the job
responsibilities of network technicians, network administrators, and network engineers. It provides a theoreticallyrich,
hands-on introduction to networking and the Internet.