Cybersecurity (Online Part-time)

Program Overview

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The Cybersecurity (Online Part-time) program at St. Lawrence College equips individuals with the skills to protect organizations' computers, servers, networks, and applications from breaches and unauthorized access. This online program provides a unique opportunity to gain expertise in cyber defense and hone skills in detecting breaches, computer forensics, threat hunting, and penetration testing. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in cybersecurity careers.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Cybersecurity (Online Part-time) program at St. Lawrence College equips individuals with the skills to protect organizations' computers, servers, networks, and applications from breaches and unauthorized access. This online program provides a unique opportunity to gain expertise in cyber defense and hone skills in detecting breaches, computer forensics, threat hunting, and penetration testing.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the necessary skills to protect organizations' data and infrastructure from cyber threats.
• Foster problem-solving, critical thinking, and troubleshooting abilities for cybersecurity scenarios.
• Develop expertise in handling network vulnerabilities, designing secure systems, and implementing security measures.
• Train graduates to "think like intruders" to strengthen organizations' cybersecurity defenses.
• Prepare graduates for leadership roles in cybersecurity across various industries and businesses.

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Program Description:

This part-time graduate certificate program offers a comprehensive curriculum that delves into various aspects of cybersecurity, including:

• Intrusion Detection: Gain fundamental skills to identify suspicious activity and compromised systems.
• Penetration Testing: Conduct reconnaissance, plan and execute attacks, and implement "Red Team" tactics for ethical hacking.
• Computer Forensics: Investigate computer crimes, recover data, and analyze evidence using forensic techniques.
• Threat Hunting: Utilize proactive strategies to detect advanced persistent cyber threats and minimize detection time.
• Industry Cybersecurity Challenges: Apply knowledge to real-world scenarios, analyze threats, and propose solutions.
• Cloud Security: Understand specific security concerns related to cloud computing and implement appropriate controls.
• Securing Infrastructure: Harden IT network infrastructure, Windows Server platforms, and Linux Server platforms.
• Security Incidence Response: Manage security incidents effectively, prioritize risks, and mitigate attacks.
• Cybersecurity Strategy: Formulate strategic plans that align with business objectives and ensure ongoing cybersecurity preparedness.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

The Cybersecurity (Online Part-time) program delves into the following key areas:

• Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Students learn to identify and mitigate threats, analyze attack patterns, and implement security measures.
• Security Operations and Monitoring: Students gain proficiency in utilizing SIEM systems, analyzing security events, and managing security incidents.
• Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking: Students master various penetration testing techniques, "Red Team" tactics, and ethical hacking practices to strengthen organizational defenses.
• Computer Forensics: Students acquire skills in digital forensics, evidence collection, data recovery, and investigation techniques.
• Threat Hunting and Threat Intelligence: Students learn to proactively identify and analyze threats, collect intelligence, and develop effective response strategies.
• Cybersecurity Strategy and Governance: Students understand the importance of aligning cybersecurity with business objectives and develop comprehensive security strategies.
• Cloud Security: Students explore cloud-specific security concerns, controls, and data governance practices.
• Security Incident Response and Management: Students gain skills in incident response procedures, risk management, and mitigation techniques.

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Structure:

• This program offers a flexible, part-time format, making it accessible to working professionals and busy individuals.
• Delivery mode: Online
• Program duration: 1 year (part-time)
• Courses are delivered in a three or four-semester sequence, allowing students to customize their pace.

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Course Schedule (2023-2024):

• Semester 1: CYBS 1000, CYBS 1001, CYBS 1002
• Semester 2: CYBS 1003, CYBS 1004, CYBS 1005
• Semester 3: CYBS 1006, CYBS 1007, CYBS 1008
• Semester 4: CYBS 1009, CYBS 1010, CYBS 1011

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Individual Modules:

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Module Descriptions:

• CYBS 1000 - Intrusion Detection: This module equips students with fundamental skills to detect and analyze suspicious activity in computer systems.
• CYBS 1002 - Penetration Testing: This module explores the discipline of penetration testing, covering reconnaissance, attack planning, execution, and data exfiltration.
• CYBS 1004 - Threat Hunting: This module trains students to proactively identify and analyze advanced persistent cyber threats using active hunting strategies.
• CYBS 1005 - Industry Cybersecurity Challenges: Assessment: This module presents real-world cybersecurity scenarios and requires students to conduct threat assessments and propose solutions.
• CYBS 1006 - Cloud Security: This module explores cloud-specific security concerns, controls, and data governance practices.
• CYBS 1007 - Securing Infrastructure: This module focuses on securing IT network infrastructure, Windows Server platforms, and Linux Server platforms.
• CYBS 1009 - Threat Intelligence: This module builds on threat hunting skills, teaching students to develop actionable intelligence specific to organizations.
• CYBS 1010 - Cybersecurity Strategy: This module focuses on developing strategic cybersecurity plans aligned with business objectives.
• CYBS 1011 - Industry Cybersecurity Challenges: Solution: This module requires students to implement a cybersecurity solution based on a real-world scenario and their proposed plan.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A combination of assessments is used to evaluate students' understanding and knowledge, including:
• Assignments and projects
• Quizzes and exams
• Case studies and simulations
• Presentations and practical exercises

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessments are graded based on criteria such as:
• Accuracy and completeness
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Depth of knowledge and understanding
• Communication and presentation skills
• Technical proficiency

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes various teaching methods to create an engaging and effective learning environment:
• Interactive online lectures and discussions
• Asynchronous learning materials and activities
• Hands-on labs and simulations
• Group projects and collaboration

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Faculty:

• The program is delivered by experienced and qualified faculty members who possess expertise in cybersecurity.
• Instructors have industry experience and stay current with the latest trends and technologies in the field.
• Guest speakers from the industry may also be invited to share their insights and experiences.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a practical and hands-on approach, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Students have access to industry-standard tools and software to gain practical experience.
• The program incorporates a collaborative learning environment where students can interact, share ideas, and learn from each other.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Cybersecurity (Online Part-time) program can pursue various career paths in different industries:

• Security Analyst
• Security Engineer
• Security Architect
• Penetration Tester
• Incident Responder
• Threat Hunter
• Forensics Investigator
• Cybersecurity Consultant
• Cloud Security Specialist
• Cybersecurity Manager
• Cybersecurity Director

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Career Opportunities:

The program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities within various industries, including:

• Government
• Education
• Healthcare
• Military
• Financial
• Research
• Consulting
• Logistics

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Career Outcomes:

Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in cybersecurity careers.

• The program provides graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.
• The Information and Communications Technology Council of Canada estimates a significant shortage of cybersecurity professionals, creating ample job opportunities for graduates.
• Graduates are qualified to pursue additional certifications to further enhance their career prospects.

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Other:

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Program Highlights:

• The program provides students with skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, troubleshooting, and dealing with network vulnerabilities and security issues.
• Students learn to design secure enterprise operating system infrastructures, create plans and policies for wireless mobile device security, implement a cloud computing environment while addressing security risks, and perform security audits.
• The program emphasizes research and reporting on the current threat landscape, utilizing ethical hacking practices to bolster organizational security measures, and integrating sustainability into cybersecurity practices to reduce businesses' environmental footprints.

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Program Requirements:

• Applicants must possess a college diploma or bachelor's degree in computing, networking, information systems, I.T., or a related field.
• Relevant work experience combined with post-secondary credentials may be considered.
• Incoming students are required to have a laptop computer running Windows operating system, a microphone, and a webcam.
• The program is designed for working professionals and individuals seeking to enhance their cybersecurity skills.
• The program offers a flexible online format, making it accessible to learners with busy schedules.
• Graduates can expect to earn above-average salaries due to the high demand for cybersecurity professionals.