Associate in Cybersecurity

Program Overview

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Associate in Cybersecurity

Why Study Cybersecurity?

At Columbia College, we foster a collaborative approach in our cybersecurity degree programs, ensuring that you have the freedom to cultivate your expertise at your own pace. By pursuing an associate degree in cybersecurity, you'll delve deep into essential concepts and challenges within this field, gaining a comprehensive understanding. Our program equips you with the necessary skills to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving cybersecurity industry. Moreover, this associate degree seamlessly transitions into a bachelor's degree, enabling you to further expand your knowledge and unlock enhanced career opportunities when the time is right for you.

What You'll Learn

Our hands-on curriculum gives you an advantage in the rapidly rising cybersecurity industry. You will gain a deeper understanding of Agile and Web Programming and learn relevant information that can be implemented in real-time as you grow your career in cybersecurity.

Program Details

Program Requirements

An Associate’s degree gives you a forward-looking education in classical liberal arts and sciences, while introducing you to the creative and critical thinking skills you need to advance professionally and personally. View the core requirements and electives needed to earn an Associate in Cybersecurity from Columbia College.

Bachelor's vs. Associate: What's the difference?

Associate degree programs offer a focused exploration of general education subjects and can typically be completed in two years. Graduates are prepared to either shape their path in the workforce or advance to a bachelor's program. Bachelor's degree programs provide transformative study in a specific subject area to prepare you for new and leading-edge career opportunities.

Areas of Study

• Operating Systems and Cloud Computing
• Business Network Communication
• Information Systems Security
• Digital Forensics

Careers & Outcomes

Your associate in cybersecurity degree opens doors for greater levels of responsibility in your work and prepares you for roles in the high demand I.T. field.

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.

Online Programs

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• D.C.
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Puerto Rico
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virgin Islands
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Classes Available In Seat

• Day Campus - Columbia, MO

Program Outline

Associate in Cybersecurity at Columbia College: A Detailed Analysis

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Degree Overview:

The program seeks to equip students with the capability to:

• Identify and analyze cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.
• Implement effective security measures to protect data and systems.
• Respond to and recover from security incidents.
• Continuously learn and adapt to the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

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The program's unique features include:

• Collaborative approach: Students work together in teams to solve real-world cybersecurity challenges, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Flexible pace: Students can choose to complete the program in two years or less, allowing them to balance their studies with other commitments.
• Transition to a bachelor's degree: Graduates can seamlessly transition into Columbia College's Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, enabling them to advance their knowledge and career opportunities.

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Outline:

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Core Requirements:

• Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Introduces the basic principles of cybersecurity, including security concepts, network security, and operating systems.
• Information Systems Security: Explores various information security domains, including risk management, access control, and incident response.
• Digital Forensics: Provides an overview of digital forensics techniques and tools used to investigate cybercrimes.
• Cybersecurity Ethics and Law: Examines the legal and ethical aspects of cybersecurity, preparing students to navigate complex challenges in the field.
• Networking and Security: Delves deeper into network fundamentals and security protocols, equipping students with the ability to design and implement secure networks.
• Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering: Analyzes malware samples and techniques used by attackers, enabling students to understand and counter malicious activities.

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Elective Courses:

Students can choose from a variety of elective courses to customize their learning experience and specialize in specific areas of cybersecurity. Some available electives include:

• Cloud Security
• Mobile Device Security
• Cybersecurity Risk Management
• Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing
• Network Forensics
• Cybersecurity in Healthcare
• IT Auditing

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Assessment:

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Students in the Associate in Cybersecurity program are assessed through a combination of methods, including:

• Exams: Traditional written exams are used to assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Assignments: Individual and group assignments allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems and demonstrate their problem-solving skills.
• Presentations: Students present their findings and research on cybersecurity topics, building their communication and presentation skills.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities contributes to students' overall understanding of the material.

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Teaching:

• Faculty Expertise: Instructors hold advanced degrees in cybersecurity or related fields and have extensive experience in the industry.
• Teaching Methods: Lectures, case studies, hands-on labs, and group projects are used to create an engaging and interactive learning environment.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates virtual labs and simulations to provide students with hands-on experience with real-world cybersecurity tools and scenarios.

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Careers:

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Upon completion of the Associate in Cybersecurity program, graduates are prepared for a variety of entry-level cybersecurity roles, including:

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cybercrime Analyst
• Incident & Intrusion Analyst
• IT Auditor
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Cybersecurity Manager
• Cybersecurity Architect
• Computer Support Specialist

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Other:

• The program is offered in both online and on-campus formats, providing flexibility for students with various commitments.
• Columbia College offers financial aid options to help students cover the cost of tuition and fees.
• The program is actively engaged with the cybersecurity industry, providing students with opportunities for internships and networking.