Cybersecurity Certificate of Achievement

This certificate includes instruction in threats to networked computers and devices and defense techniques.  Students completing this certificate program will be qualified for employment as networking professionals at security-conscious companies and be able to prepare for the Comp TIA Security+ exam and the E-C Council Certified Ethical Hacker exam.

The projected number of annual completers for the Certificate of Achievement –Cybersecurity is 5 - 10 students. This estimate is based on past course enrollment data. Enrollment is expected to grow in Certificate of Achievement – Cybersecurity program.

The goals of the Certificate of Achievement – Cybersecurity is directed at the appropriate level for community colleges and is a consistent statewide pathway designed with industry involvement to prepare students for entry-level jobs, and to inform business of the rich capabilities that exist at every California Community College Campus. This program addresses a valid occupational role, that of security analyst position. The program is designed to provide students with the skills to meet employers’ needs. Both students entering the workforce and incumbent employees desiring entry-level security analyst and systems support knowledge will benefit from this program.

The Certificate of Achievement – Cybersecurity is designed to prepare students for entry-level security analyst and systems support in a variety of job positions.  Students are trained in entry-level cybersecurity skills as well as critical thinking, problem solving, and interpersonal skills to provide greater efficiency in the workplace.

The Certificate of Achievement – Cybersecurity is directed at the appropriate level for community colleges and is a consistent statewide pathway designed with industry involvement to prepare students for entry-level jobs, and to inform business of the rich capabilities that exist at every California Community College Campus. The program is designed to provide students with the skills to meet employers’ needs. Both students entering the workforce and incumbent employees desiring entry-level security analyst and system support knowledge will benefit from this program.

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Describe common Cybersecurity threats and defenses, prioritize them, and properly implement defenses such as firewalls and intrusions defense systems.
• Analyze systems for evidence of abuse or intrusions.
• Perform basic penetration tests and security audits.

The minimum time for completion of this certificate is two semesters; completion time will vary based on student preparation and number of units completed per semester. 

Course	Units
First semester required courses:
CNIT 40 – DNS Security		1.00
CNIT 120 – Network Security		3.00
Choose one of the following network courses:
CNIT 106 – Introduction to Networks		3.00
CNIT 201C – Introduction to Cisco Networks		3.00
Total:		7.00
Second semester required courses:
CNIT 121 – Computer Forensics		3.00
CNIT 122 – Firewalls		3.00
CNIT 123 – Ethical Hacking & Network Defense		3.00
Total:		9.00
	Total:	16.00

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Course	Title	Units	Semester
CNIT 40	DNS Security	1	S1
CNIT 120	Network Security	3	S1
Choose one:  CNIT 106 or CNIT 201C	CNIT 106 (Introduction to Networks) or CNIT 201C (Introduction to Cisco Networks)	3	S1
CNIT 121	Computer Forensics	3	S2
CNIT 122	Firewalls	3	S2
CNIT 123	Ethical Hacking and Network	3	S2

The Certificate of Achievement – Cybersecurity is the result of business needs assessment informed by CNIT employer advisory panel and evaluation through assessment, program review and evolving topics in security analyst and system support.

Of 22 Bay Area Community Colleges (Merritt College, Diablo Valley College, College of Marin, Las Positas Community College, Canada College, Ohlone College, Santa Rosa Junior College, Foothill College, Mission College, San Jose City College), Ohlone and Cabrillo College are the only colleges that offer a similar program.