Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity

AAS Degree, Certificate

Business and Information Systems Pathway

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Pathway

La Plata Campus|Leonardtown Campus|Prince Frederick Campus

The field of cybersecurity focuses on the protection of computers, networks, software, and data from unauthorized access, modification, and destruction.

Continued adoption of new technologies, Software as a Service (SAAS), and migration to cloud environments in the face of evolving threats are accelerating demand for practitioners in this already growing field.

This program prepares students who are currently employed in the cybersecurity field as well as those without prior work experience to develop the skills and knowledge required of practitioners within a variety of cybersecurity related settings.

The Cybersecurity, AAS degree program is designed to prepare students for entry-level careers. Students with a strong mathematics background may wish to consider the Computer Science, AS degree program as a pathway to a cybersecurity career upon transfer to a four-year college or university. Some bachelor's degree programs in computer science offer a cybersecurity concentration area.

This program has been designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Center of Academic Excellence (NCAE).

Programs of Study

Cybersecurity, AAS

The Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity program provides students with a comprehensive, hands-on education in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. Designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals, the program equips students with the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to protect digital systems and respond to cyber threats across a variety of industries.

Students begin with foundational courses such as Introduction to Computing and Computer Security, then progress into specialized areas including Networking, Ethical Hacking and Defense, Digital Forensics and Incident Response, and Information Systems Security. The curriculum also includes practical programming with Python, Introduction to Linux, Introduction to Databases, Server Management, and Introduction to Cloud Resources, ensuring students gain a broad and versatile skill set.

Throughout the program, students engage in real-world scenarios and lab-based exercises that prepare them for industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA Tech+, Security+, Linux+, Pentester+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI). These certifications enhance employability and validate the technical competencies acquired during the program.

Graduates will be prepared for entry-level cybersecurity roles in government, business, and nonprofit sectors, with the technical and analytical skills needed to secure networks, investigate incidents, and implement defense strategies.

This program is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE 2Y) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), recognizing its commitment to high standards in cybersecurity instruction. Graduates are well-prepared for entry-level roles in cybersecurity, network administration, digital forensics, and information assurance, with the skills to contribute immediately to the protection and resilience of digital infrastructure.

View Program Requirements in the Catalog:

Cybersecurity, AAS

Cybersecurity Certificate

This certificate program prepares students who are currently employed in the cybersecurity field as well as those without prior work experience to develop the foundational IT and cybersecurity skills and knowledge required of practitioners within a variety of cybersecurity related settings.

All of the credits in this certificate apply towards the Cybersecurity, AAS degree program. Students will take classes that will help to prepare for the following entry level cybersecurity industry certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Linux+, and Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA).