Cybersecurity, CSC

Purpose

The Cybersecurity Career Studies Certificate is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce with essential cybersecurity training to help plan and implement an organization’s information security, install security hardware and software, monitor networks for security breaches, respond to cyber-attacks, and gather evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber-crime. The training focuses on the strategies, techniques, and defense mechanisms required to mitigate global cyber threats. This certificate includes both classroom and lab instruction.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

Analyze, design and document computer network specifications to meet client needs.
Understand computer systems, networking, and information security terminology.
Install, configure, and troubleshoot workstations, servers, and network infrastructure.
Use computer systems and network security in a responsible and ethical manner.
Ensure the implementation of the five security keys: confidentiality, integrity, availability, accountability and auditability when creating security policies and procedures.
Understand different hacking attacks and defense methodologies.
Analyze local and global information technology (IT) and security trends, while recognizing the influences of IT on culture, economic, ethical, and legal issues and responsibilities.
Gain the ability for computer forensic investigation by collecting computer-related evidence at the physical layer from a variety of digital media.
Secure communication protocols from hacking attacks by highlighting protocol weaknesses that include Internet architecture, routing, addressing, topology, fragmentation and protocol analysis.

Employment Opportunities

The Cybersecurity Career Studies Certificate program will prepare students for a wide range of careers in fields such as computer forensics, information security, and systems administration. As cybersecurity job growth in Virginia continues to trend upwards, the certificate will enable students to be a part of this trend and remain competitive as the region’s economy continues to evolve.