Cybersecurity

The Cybersecurity degree and certificate will prepare students for careers in cybersecurity, computer networking, information technology, system administration and related fields.  Students will learn how to maintain an organization's information technology workflow and keeps its lines of communication open and secure.  Skills taught in the program will allow students to be responsible for the upkeep,configuration, security, and reliable operation of computer systems; especially multi-user computers, such as servers.  Students will learn all facets of system security; from authentication to software updates, anti-virus protection, and system modifications—system security is a key component to a device operating at its optimum.  Best practices to help mitigate various security concerns will also be covered.

The Cybersecurity program will serve as preparation for the following industry certifications: A+, Network+, Security+,Microsoft Certified Technician (MCT) in Windows and Windows Server, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), & Cisco Certified Technician (CCT).  Students will be able to transfer to partner 4 years institutions to pursue their bachelor’s degree in related studies.

The program anticipates 15-20 completers per year.

Cybersecurity is a new degree program  developed with the support of a Priority Sector SWP grant that permitted faculty to conduct intensive research with industry professionals to ensure that the new program was consistent with industry standards and also meets curriculum guidelines for transferability.  The existing Cybersecurity program is a 12 unit certificate of achievement that lacked the rigor and expectations of industry needs.  A new degree option is created in Cybersecurity as well as the modification of the existing Certificate of Achievement option that matches the 22 units  curriculum core of the degree option.  

Cybersecurity is a growing field that can be utilized by every industry in the world.  There is no industry that does not utilize a form of computer related technology; therefore, there is no industry that does not need cybersecurity.  Along with the growing demand of computer systems and data comes the need to secure those systems and data.  This program will provide the students with the knowledge and skills to obtain cybersecurity related positions in the industry.  The program will focus on the following objectives:

 ·        Deploying a secure and reliable wireless network.

·        Analyze, test, troubleshoot, evaluate, and secure existing network and computer systems such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Internet systems.

• Provide a means to defend against malicious digital attacks and theft.

 Program Learning Outcomes

 Utilize security tools to secure a network.

1. Properly diagnose security breaches and respond appropriately.