Program Description
This program provides the foundation courses that prepare students to apply for entry level information assurance/security technician/practitioners positions that support planning, implementing, upgrading, and monitoring security measures for the protection of computer networks and information systems. Students, through in-depth theory and extensive hands-on activities, will develop skills to ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure, and will develop skills to respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Includes instruction in computer architecture, programming, and systems analysis; networking; cryptography; security system design; applicable law and regulations; risk assessment and policy analysis; contingency planning; user access issues; investigation techniques; and troubleshooting.
Associate Degree Programs in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity (Associate of Applied Science)
The Cybersecurity program prepares students to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution for continued study in computer cyber security. Cyber security specialists apply computer security techniques to work with industry, government, and academia to solve computer networking and security related challenges. Students with bachelor’s degrees in computer cyber security continue their education in graduate school or enter the workforce as a network, forensic, or computer security expert.
Required Courses & Learning Outcomes
Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Cybersecurity degree program.
Certificate Programs in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity
The Cybersecurity Certificate provides students with the skills, knowledge and credentials to successfully begin a career in the field of Cybersecurity. Cybersecurity specialists apply computer security techniques to work with industry, government, and academia to solve computer networking and security related challenges.
Required Courses & Learning Outcomes
Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Cybersecurity certificate program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose cybersecurity as a major at Cecil College?
Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. Their responsibilities are continually expanding as the number of cyberattacks increases. A career in Cybersecurity may be right for you, if you:
- see yourself in a career that offers diverse opportunities.
- would like to work in rapidly-paced Information Technology sector.
- have aptitude for problem-solving and ingenuity.
- are analytical and detail-oriented.
- enjoy the challenge of lifelong learning.
Would you like a career where you continually adapt to stay a step ahead of cyberattacks, learn the latest methods used by attackers to infiltrate computer systems, and stay current regarding IT security? Experience and security credentials hold solid potential for advancement to management positions, especially when combined with a bachelor’s degree. The average growth rate for all occupations over the next decade is expected to be 7%, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Which one is right for me, an associate degree in cybersecurity, or a cybersecurity certificate?
Both paths lead to a solid academic foundation in basic cybersecurity. The cybersecurity certificate is most appropriate for students who have earned a degree in another field of study and are seeking a career change, or for anyone that is already working in the profession and needs enhanced skills for career advancement.
An associate degree in cybersecurity provides the opportunity to start a professional career in an entry-level position after graduation, with the added ability to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in the future.
Speak to an advisor in our Academic Advising Office for help choosing the right path. You can also contact one of our cybersecurity faculty members.
What will I do in a cybersecurity career?
Career opportunities in cybersecurity may include careers as “ethical hackers” who probe and exploit security vulnerabilities in web-based applications and network systems, to cryptographers who analyze and decrypt hidden information from cyberterrorists and the like. Cybersecurity professionals work hard to ensure data stays out of the wrong hands. Cybersecurity professionals work in virtually every industry, responding rapidly to real-world threats.
An associate degree in cybersecurity provides the opportunity to start a professional career in an entry-level position after graduation, with the added ability to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program in the future. A four-year cybersecurity degree program focuses on the array of methods used to protect data and information systems. Students receive training in technical and business skills such as database applications, systems administration and data recovery. There are hundreds of job titles in cybersecurity, but some of the top positions include:
- Security Analyst
- Security Engineer
- Security Architect
- Security Administrator
- Security Software Developer
- Cryptographer
- Cryptanalyst
- Security Consultant
Should I seek a cybersecurity internship while a student at Cecil College?
Yes! Completing a cybersecurity internship provides valuable on the job experience applying the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom and can increase post-graduation career opportunities and income. Visit Cecil College’s Career Services Office to learn more about available opportunities, to advance your resume writing or interview skills and for general career advising.
Admissions & Advising
Cecil College is an open enrollment institution. Get more information, find out how to apply, or meet with an advisor.
Transfer
Whether transferring coursework to Cecil College or transferring your completed degree or certificate to a four-year institution, transfer is a viable option to help meet your educational goals.
Cecil College has articulation agreements with Maryland and regional institutions.
Transfer information for Maryland colleges and universities is available through the Articulation System of Maryland (ARTSYS) website at www.artsys.usmd.edu. Additional transfer information can be found on the Transfer Agreements page.
Faculty
Christine Warwick
Science & Technology, Chair
M.S., University of St. Joseph
Pedro Colon-Green
Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity
M.S. Grantham University
James A. Morgan
Associate Professor of Cybersecurity
Ph.D., Capella University
Susan Price
Associate Professor of Computer Science
M.B.A., M.S., Wilmington University
Our adjunct faculty in computer science and cybersecurity hold advanced degrees in their fields and bring a wide array of experience into the classroom.