Nov 02, 2024  
2022-2023 Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, ITC


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The Information Assurance and Cybersecurity (CSEC) program offers several options for the student or industry professional interested in employment in this high-wage, high-demand industry. The Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in CSEC combines coursework from the traditional Information Technology Services (ITS) program and specialized coursework to prepare for a position as an entry-level Security Analyst.

A Security Analyst will plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information; ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure; and may respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Additionally, the program prepares students to gain industry-recognized skills-based certifications including Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA.

As the Cyber Security program derives from ITS, both programs share the first-year Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC), which provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level IT service work. The ITS ITC also trains to industry-recognized certifications.

AAS students must successfully complete the ITS Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC) program before applying to be in the Information Assurance and Cybersecurity program. The application is available on cei.edu/programs-of-study/business/information-assurance- and-cybersecurity. These degree options are taught primarily in the evening and require potential students to meet Cybersecurity entrance requirements before enrollment.

Industry Partners at CEI

CEI is a Microsoft IT Academy, a Cisco Networking Academy, VMWare IT Academy, RedHat Academy, and a CompTIA Authorized Academy. These partnerships ensure that the industry official curriculum is available to the qualified instructors teaching the various ITS courses, as well as providing discounts for certification exams

Entrance Requirements for CSEC AAS

Students must qualify for a GEM  Math course, or discuss qualifications with an Admissions counselor.

Students must meet the computer literacy proficiency as described below:

  • This program assumes students possess an intermediate level of computer knowledge at the beginning of the program. Students may demonstrate this level of knowledge with a current IC3 or A+ certification, successfully passing BSN 215  or equivaent with a grade of (B) or higher, passing the CEI Computer Literacy Exam with an 80% or higher, and/ or gaining instructor permission. It is recommended that all prospective students visit with an instructor to review their particular qualifications and receive an overview of the program prior to enrollment.

Note:

  • Students accepted into the program will be required to complete the classes in the prescribed semester as laid out in the catalog.  Failure to register and/or pass all classes required each term may result in delays or dismissal from the program.  Any changes to registration outside of the prescribed semester must be approved by the Department Advisor.
  • Industry employers require criminal background checks as a standard for employment.  If you have questions or concerns about passing a criminal background check, the Cybersecurity and Technology Department strongly encourages you to discuss your concerns with a CEI Admissions Counselor or Department Advisor. 

Technical Certificates

The CSEC Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC) program and Specialized Certificate (SC) program are designed for current IT professionals who desire to gain the skills needed to move into Information Assurance and Cybersecurity. The application for the program is available on cei.edu/programs-of-study/business/ information-assurance-and-cybersecurity.

Entrance Requirements for CSEC ITC/SC

Students must meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Current A+ hardware and/or A+ software certification
  • Current Network+ or CCNA certification
  • Industry experience as determined by a department instructor interview or the equivalent of an ITS ITC in from an accredited college

Intended Learning Outcomes

  • Employ professional, team, and ethical behaviors that contribute to continued employability accounting for technological advances
  • Design, implement, test, and evaluate software components and systems meeting given requirements
  • Identify cyber threats, create strategies to locate and recover evidence, and perform forensic analysis
  • Educate users about cyber threats, monitor security systems, and prepare appropriate documentation

Program Costs

In addition to the registration and technology fees, a Cybersecurity student may expect to pay approximately $350 per semester for books and supplies. Additionally, in the first semester of the ITS program, students are required to purchase the parts for a computer, which they assemble as part of their coursework. The cost for these components will run approximately between $500 and $1,500.

Students in the Intermediate Technical Certificate and Specialized Certificate programs may expect to pay approximately $100 for books per class.

Industry Testing for Certification

Upon completion of the designated industry certification courses, students demonstrate proficiency by participating in the industry certification exam process including exams through Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA. Students holding current industry certifications may qualify for prior learning credit. A testing fee is assessed to the courses that directly relates to the CEI required certification exams. A list of testing fees is available from program instructors.

  • Thirty (30) Credits
  • Financial Aid Eligible

Semester 1 (Spring)


Semester 2 (Fall)


Choose one of the following two courses:


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