Cybersecurity

The Cybersecurity Associate in Science Degree provides the skills for students to become highly skilled computer security professionals. The students can train individuals for entry-level positions as Security Operation Center Analyst, data security analyst, systems security administrators, and network security administrators. This program will allow students to get familiar with the latest security technologies that will help them examine issues with information security, security operations, governance, protection and defense, network security, systems and network security planning, disaster planning and recovery, risk assessment, analysis, collection and investigation, and the legal and ethical issues associated with cybersecurity. This curriculum includes simulated experience with real-world hands on projects to gear towards preparing for industry recognized certifications and have students advance towards successful cybersecurity workforce roles. The Associate of Science degree in Cybersecurity is available for students who meet the graduation requirements and complete the following required courses, with a minimum grade of a “C” (or P) in each course in the degree and maintain a 2.0 GPA.

This program introduces the cybersecurity skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level Cybersecurity professionals. After completing the coursework for this degree the student will be able to gain industry standardized certificates from CompTIA, Cisco, Cloud Security Alliance such as the A+, Network+, Security+, Linux+, Cloud+, Server+, Cisco CyberOps, CCNA Security, CCSK Certifications. Therefore, we are fulfilling all the bulleted goals of lifelong learning, basic skills, CTE, transfer, and degree/certificate programs in line with Merced Colleges mission.

The Cybersecurity AS Degree, the students will learn the soft and technical skills needed to provide the platform to be successful as entry-level Cybersecurity Technology Professionals in government, health, education, defense, and private businesses. The students will also be able to develop occupational skills and receive certifications. The program also enables students to get fundamental knowledge in the areas of penetration testing, forensics, risk assessment, incident handling, networking, and system security. The program aims to develop quality and quantity of technical professionals that will be able to design and implement security policies for organizations of all sizes in the central valley.