Cybersecurity and Network Administration - Associate in Applied Science

Information Technology Pathway

105 Credits | 8 Quarters

Pathway at a Glance

Put your passions to work in one of the most relevant and in-demand industries—Information Technology. Become a game developer, civil engineer, cybersecurity guru, or IT network engineer and work in virtually any industry and any country. Take your next step into our Information Technology Pathway.

Pathway Map (PDF)

Courses by Quarter

Quarter Plan:

Quarter 1

Transition Studies Students have several options for their starting point. Some students may start in our Transition Studies programs: Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, Digital Literacy, and High School+.

Quarter 2

MATH101 Technical Mathematics I 5 Credits Search Schedule

Covers the theories and applications of mathematics used in technical fields with emphasis on problem solving strategies, measurement, algebra, geometry, unit conversions and the metric system. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092.
Distribution: AAS, AAS-COMPUTATION

ENGL090 Integrated Reading and Writing I 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces students to college-level reading and writing. Focuses on reading strategies, critical thinking, and writing unified paragraphs. ENGL 090 classes are combined with ENGL 095 classes, and students who demonstrate ENGL 095 proficiency may earn ENGL 095 credit. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement based on Reading & English CPT scores or transition test.

-OR-

ENGL095 Integrated Reading and Writing II 5 Credits Search Schedule

Prepares students for entry into college-level writing courses. Focuses on reading analytically, thinking critically, and writing coherent, well-supported texts. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement based on Reading & English CPT scores or transition test.

CNA100 Introduction to Networking 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces foundational concepts designed to prepare the student for more advanced networking concepts. Introduces terms and technologies commonly seen in a computer network. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090.

Quarter 3

CNA101 Cisco I 5 Credits Search Schedule

Covers network architecture and function. Introduces protocol communication, network configuration and troubleshooting. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090, CNA 100.

CNA113 PC Operating Systems 3 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces PC operating systems with an emphasis on support user software, operating systems, basic networking concepts, troubleshooting, and diagnostics. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090.

CCS101 Pathways to Success 3 Credits Search Schedule

Cultivates the mind-set and skills necessary for students to become confident, reflective, self-directing, and successful learners. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 090 or higher.

ENGL098 Transitional English Composition 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces strategies and techniques writers use to convey ideas and participate in multiple discourse communities. Focuses on both the process and product of composing. English 098 classes are combined with English 101 classes, and students who demonstrate English 101 proficiency may earn ENGL& 101 credit. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement OR a "C" or better in ENGL 095.

-OR-

ENGL&101 English Composition I 5 Credits Search Schedule

Develops strategies and techniques writers use to convey ideas and participate in multiple discourse communities. Focuses on both the process and product of composing. Prerequisite: Appropriate placement OR a "B-" or better in ENGL 095 OR a "C" or better in ENGL 098.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, COMMUNICATION, GER-CIS, AA-AAS-T-COMMUNICATION, AAS-COMMUNICATION: Reading/Writing, AAS-READING-WRITING

Quarter 4

CNA121 Microsoft Workstation 5 Credits Search Schedule

Expands student understanding of operating systems through focused study of the Windows Client OS within Client-Server networks. Prepares students for Microsoft Desktop certification. Prerequisite: CNA 113 or instructor's permission.

CNA112 PC Workstation Technical Support 5 Credits Search Schedule

Provides instruction on complete tear down and reassembly of PC Workstations including software configuration and troubleshooting of common hardware installation issues. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090.

Choose One:
(Human Relations / Diversity)

PSYC116 Psychology of Human Relations: Diversity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces students to the psychology of human relationships. Examines how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors impact communication in a multicultural world. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, SOCIAL SCIENCE, NURSING SOCIAL SCIENCE, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-SOCIAL SCIENCE, SOC-SCIENCE-CULTURAL, FPA-SocSci-Qtr 5-6-8

-OR-

CMST&210 Interpersonal Communication: Diversity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Focuses on understanding and developing interpersonal communication skills needed to build and maintain healthy one-on-one relationships in both personal and professional contexts. Examines how diverse communication styles can impact relationships. Prerequisite: None.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS

-OR-

CMST240 Intercultural Communication: Diversity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces intercultural communication theories and concepts with applications. Explores the communication processes when people enter new cultural context or interact with people who have different cultural identities. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101 or instructor's permission.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, HUMANITIES, NURSING HUMANITIES, AAS-SPEAKING-LISTENING, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, AAS-ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-5QTR, HUM-CULTURAL-ELECTIVE-6QTR, HUM-CULTURAL-ELECTIVE-8QTR, FPA-Hum-Qtr 6-7-8

-OR-

HUM121 Multicultural America: Diversity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Explores the history, cultures, and contributions of various race and ethnic groups in the United States and the complex notion of an "American" identity throughout U.S. history. Emphasizes the impacts of power, privilege, and socialization on our understanding of race and ethnicity in the American context. Prerequisite: Eligible for ENGL 098 or ENGL& 101.
Distribution: AA, AAS, AS, DTA, DIVERSITY, HUMANITIES, NURSING HUMANITIES, AAS-HUMAN RELATIONS, AA-AAS-T-HUMANITIES, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-4QTR, HUMANITIES-CULTURAL-5QTR, FPA-Hum-Qtr 6-7-8

Quarter 5

CNA120 Command Line Interface 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces the use of the Windows command line and PowerShell interfaces to manage and manipulate Windows Operating systems. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090.

CNA125 IT Soft Skills 3 Credits Search Schedule

Emphasizes User Centered Design and introduces human behavior utilizing the DISC (Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Compliance) assessment model as it relates to the information technology environment. Prerequisite: None.

CNA150 Cisco II 5 Credits Search Schedule

Covers the architecture, components, and operations of Cisco routers and switches in a small network. Includes configuration of routers and switches for basic functionality. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090, CNA 101.

Quarter 6

CNA210 Introduction to Network Security 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces network security concepts and terms from a global perspective. Explores a wide range of topics including authentication, cryptography, risk and vulnerability analysis, and disaster recovery. Prepares students for the CompTIA Security+ exam. Prerequisite: CNA 101, and either CNA 121 or CNA 122.

CNA122 Microsoft Server 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces the Microsoft Windows server operating system and Microsoft Client-Server networks. Includes implementation of a core Windows Server Infrastructure into host and compute environments. Prerequisite: CNA 120 or instructor's permission.

CNA251 Cisco III 5 Credits Search Schedule

Covers the architecture, components, and operations of routers and switches in larger and more complex networks. Includes configuration of routers and switches for advanced functionality. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090, CNA 150.

Quarter 7

CNA130 Introduction to Linux/Unix 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces Linux operating systems from the perspective of a new user. Covers how to install, maintain, and configure a Linux operating system. Explores the shell interface, utilities, and basic characteristics of the operating system. Prerequisite: Eligible for MATH 092 and ENGL 090.

CNA221 Windows Server Administration 5 Credits Search Schedule

Explores how to deploy and maintain a Windows Server network infrastructure in an enterprise environment, including DNS, DHCP, remote access, and distributed network solutions. Requires a strong understanding of the Windows client and Server operating systems. Prerequisite: CNA 122 or instructor's permission.

CNA256 Python for Cybersecurity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Introduces Python scripting for system administration and security testing. Prerequisite: CNA 120 and CNA 210.

CNA290 Cooperative Work Experience/Internship Search Schedule

Cooperative Work Experience (Co-op) is an academic internship program that integrates a student?s classroom study with planned supervised learning in positions related to the student?s program of study or area of interest. Students are awarded credit and a grade not for the work itself, but for the demonstration of learning which occurs in and throughout the work experience.

Quarter 8

CNA234 Windows Server Services 5 Credits Search Schedule

Synthesizes and expands topics covered in previous Windows Server courses, including integration of various network services. Focuses on management of Active directory objects and policies. Incorporates Certificate services in Federation and Access Solutions. Prerequisite: CNA 221 or instructor's permission.

CNA285 Cisco Cybersecurity 5 Credits Search Schedule

Explores cybersecurity concepts and Cisco security configurations. Emphasizes Red Team vs. Blue Team cybersecurity, with focus on the defensive Blue Team. Content applies to both the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security credentials. Prerequisite: CNA 210 and CNA 221 and CNA 251.

CNA296 Managing Network Environments 3 Credits Search Schedule

Focuses on Global Network design and implementation. Includes configuration, installation, and user support of Microsoft and Cisco network systems. Prerequisite: CNA 210 and CNA 221 and CNA 252.

CNA297 Ethical Hacking 5 Credits Search Schedule

Explores cybersecurity concepts related to ethical hacking and penetration testing. Emphasizes Red Team vs. Blue Team cybersecurity with focus on the offensive Red Team. Content prepares students for the CompTIA PenTest+ certification. Prerequisite: CNA 221 and CNA 252 and CNA 256.

Print Pathway Map

Program Student Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the Cybersecurity Program, the successful student will be able to:

Utilize applied skills with fundamental concepts, using industry standard security tools to secure computer and server networks, achieve design, planning, deployment and management goals where systems related technology and services are employed
Design, implement and troubleshoot a variety of network topologies (both wired and wireless) and protocols with specific expertise in Cisco and Microsoft network and server products
Demonstrate clear and concise communication including the ability to communicate highly technical information to a non-technical audience made up of a variety of stakeholders through the use of oral and written forms
Demonstrate an understanding of industry related logic and statistical analysis used to achieve results where configuration and troubleshooting of IT security systems is required
Practice and apply appropriate ethical and legal standards and mandates reflecting the most current laws and regulations in regard to designing, implementing, and testing security systems/processes
Demonstrate the ability to participate in globally diverse team environments while engaged in technical projects

Revision Date:

Tuesday, March 30, 2021