Security+

Program Overview

Security+

Prepare for an entry-level credential in information and network security.

This is a G3 program. Students may qualify for free tuition, fees, and books.

Career Pathway

Science, Math, Engineering, Computer & IT

Related Programs

• Information Systems Technology
• Network+
• Workforce Development

Faculty Contact

Toni Peterson

Program

FastForward Credential Program

Program Information

Take the first step toward a career in cybersecurity with this program! Primary learning objectives include identifying threats, attacks and vulnerabilities on the Internet from newer custom devices and social engineering attacks based on current events; addressing threats of enterprise environments, cloud reliance and hybrid networks; administering identity, access management, PKI, basic cryptography, wireless and end-to-end security; employing security assessment and incident response procedures, such as basic threat detection, risk mitigation techniques and security controls; and supporting organizational risk management and compliance to regulations, such as PCI-DSS, SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, FISMA, NIST and CCPA. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Security+ credential exam offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).

Contact Hours: 42

Admissions Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age on the first day of class.
• Meet minimum essential functions and standards for program.
• Attend a coaching appointment and/or information session prior to enrollment.
• Complete all funding assistance paperwork (if applicable) prior to enrollment.
• English Language Learners (ELL/ESL): If English is not the first language, prospective students must complete a CASAS assessment with acceptable score prior to program admission. CASAS assessments can be scheduled by emailing at or calling . Include your first and last name, program of interest, and program start date in your email. Assessment should be completed at least one week prior to program start date. CASAS assessment is also recommended, but not required, for prospective students who feel their reading comprehension needs improvement.

Program Outline

Objectives:

• The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to identify threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities on the internet.
• Students will learn to address security threats in enterprise environments, cloud reliance, and hybrid networks.
• They will gain expertise in administering identity, access management, PKI, basic cryptography, wireless and end-to-end security.
• The program will also educate students on security assessment and incident response procedures, including basic threat detection, risk mitigation techniques, and security controls.
• Students will learn to support organizational risk management and compliance to regulations such as PCI-DSS, SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, FISMA, NIST, and CCPA.

Program Description:

The Security+ program is a series of three (3) FastForward programs designed to prepare students for industry credentials in Information Technology. These programs can be taken in any order.

• Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities:
Students will learn about different types of threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities that exist on the internet.
• Security in Enterprise Environments: This module will cover security considerations for enterprise environments, including cloud reliance and hybrid networks.
• Identity and Access Management: Students will learn about different methods for managing identities and access, including PKI and basic cryptography.
• Risk Management and Compliance: This module will cover different methods for managing security risks and complying with regulations.

Structure:

• The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, hands-on labs, and group projects.
• The program is typically offered in a hybrid format, with a combination of online and in-person instruction.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:
• Exams:
The program includes multiple exams that assess students' knowledge of the material.
• Labs: Students will complete hands-on labs to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts they have learned.
• Projects: Students will work on group projects to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Assessment Criteria:

• The assessment criteria for each assessment method will be provided by the instructor.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures:
Instructors will deliver lectures to introduce key concepts.
• Hands-on Labs: Students will complete hands-on labs to reinforce their understanding of the material.
• Group Projects: Students will work on group projects to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Discussion: Students will participate in class discussions to deepen their understanding of the material.

Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced faculty who are experts in information and network security.

Unique Approaches:

• The program uses a variety of unique approaches to enhance student learning, including:
• Industry-Standard Curriculum:
The program is based on industry-standard curriculum, ensuring that students are learning the skills they need to succeed in the workforce.
• Hands-on Labs: The program includes a significant number of hands-on labs, which allow students to apply the concepts they have learned in a practical setting.
• Group Projects: The program includes group projects, which allow students to collaborate with their peers and develop teamwork skills.
• Entry-level security analyst
• Help desk analyst
• Security technician
• Network administrator
• Security consultant

Opportunities:

• The program can lead to opportunities with a variety of organizations, including:
• Government agencies
• Private corporations
• Non-profit organizations

Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program have a high rate of employment in the information and network security field.
• The program is offered through the Workforce Services department at PVCC.