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Cybersecurity - Associate Degree

Cybersecurity careers are at the forefront of information technology. IT security professionals are needed to prevent hackers from stealing vital data and to protect computer operations. Cybersecurity technologists are responsible for network security infrastructure, security application software, and security monitoring. Typical career opportunities in this field range from firewall administrators to intrusion detection administrators to security technology consultants. Responsibilities can include firewall administration, network security configuration and support, and security monitoring – all focused on developing and maintaining a secure network. Graduates of this associate degree are also prepared to pursue mainstream vendor certifications with additional study.

Program Code: 101512 Emerging Career
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Home » Academics and Training » Cybersecurity
Area of Study: Information Technology

Prepare for a career in cyber protection at NWTC


Every company and organization has vital data that needs IT security. A bank, for example, has customers' Social Security Numbers, addresses, and other sensitive information stored in their computer system. Imagine if that system is hacked and the information is stolen.

To prevent such a data breach, companies in nearly every industry are investing in information security. In a cybersecurity career, you could test an organization's computer systems to find weaknesses, work with firewalls to prevent cyber-attacks, or develop cyber network security software – to name just a few job responsibilities.

Program Costs & Financial Aid

See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.

This program is fully eligible for financial aid.

Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.

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Offered At:

Follow Your Path

Some of the courses from the following certificate(s) apply toward this associate degree:

611504, Networking Pathway Certificate

Delivery

  • Day
  • Evening
  • Full-time
  • Online: Some online courses may be delivered at specific times each week.
  • Part-time

How do I get started in this program?

Requirements for Program Entry

  • Apply at www.nwtc.edu/apply
  • Submit high school, GED, or HSED transcripts and college transcripts (if applicable) to transcripts@nwtc.edu
  • Tip! Our admission advisors will assist you through every step. Have questions? Connect with NWTC Admissions at start@nwtc.edu or 920-498-5444.

What are my courses?

Curriculum

Students following the study plan below will complete the Cybersecurity Associate Degree in the number of semesters shown.

First Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Semester Total 17

Second Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Semester Total 15

Third Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Semester Total 17

Fourth Semester

8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
Semester Total 14
Total Credits 63

Social Science Course Options (the Recommended Program Course is Identified with an *):

  • 10809122 - Intro to American Government 3
  • 10809172 - Intro to Diversity Studies 3
  • 10809166 - Intro to Ethics 3
  • 10809196 - Intro to Sociology * 3
  • 10809195 - Economics 3
  • Curriculum Note: Students must earn a “C” or higher in 10-890-101, College 101.
  • Cisco Intro, 10-150-200, must be passed with a "C" or better.
  • Cisco Intermediate, 10-150-201, must be passed with a "C" or better.
  • Cisco Security, 10-151-176, must be passed with a "C" or better.

Program Outcomes

  • Install network hardware including interface cards and cabling
  • Create effective user environments using Microsoft and UNIX/LINUX operating systems
  • Install and configure network and desktop operating system software
  • Install and configure application software
  • Exercise structured problem solving techniques
  • Develop technical documentation for network configuration and security
  • Communicate technical information effectively
  • Maintain computer hardware and peripherals
  • Implement and configure wide area network (WAN) services
  • Detect, analyze, and defend against network and system penetration
  • Maintain data, confidentiality, and integrity through data and communication encryption

What careers are in my future?

80%

Graduate Employment

with 60% in field

$63,000.00

Median Starting Salary

Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey

Employment Potential

A graduate of this program will have the potential for employment in the following areas:

  • Firewall Administrator
  • IDS/IPS Administrator
  • Systems Security Analyst

What's next after graduation?

Start here. Finish at a four-year.

NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners.

What else do I need to know about the program?

Study Abroad Opportunities

The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses.

Learn more about upcoming study abroad opportunities.

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Online

Classes wherever you have an internet connection. 

  • An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
  • Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
Day
Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Evening
Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Weekend
A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
Full-time
12 or more credits per term.
Part-time
Fewer than 12 credits per term.