Networking and Cybersecurity - Associate of Applied Science Option (AASO)

Description

The Computer and Information Systems program is designed around a core curriculum and three distinct options. The program’s core provides an introduction to computer concepts, software applications, operating systems, networking, database, computer servicing, internet, math, human relations, and writing. Graduates work in information technology for a wide variety of commercial businesses, education, federal/state/local governments, e-commerce, publishing, and real estate. Careers typically include positions such as personal computer technician, desktop support, network administrator, web developer, draftsperson, database administrator, system administrator, and related managerial and administrative roles.

The Networking and Cybersecurity option prepares students for entry-level positions in network administration and network security. Students who have completed the option will have the ability to design, create, manage, secure, and maintain computer networks for small businesses. Courses cover both hardware and software and closely follow major industry certification requirements.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate the ability to plan, execute, and manage the most current version of both the Windows Server and Windows client operating systems for small to mid-sized businesses.
  2. Develop Cisco solutions for use in routing, analyzing, and securing data over local, wide, and wireless networks.
  3. Demonstrate currency in information technology knowledge and skills through continuous education and research.
  4. Apply best practices in the acquisition and use of hardware and software for targeted scenarios.
  5. Implement and secure small to medium-sized networks.

Entrance Requirements

Academic Entrance Requirements

Recommended:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Completion of WR 065 Rhetoric and Critical Thinking II (or higher) or minimum placement Wr/Comm Level 7
  • Completion of MTH 060 Beginning Algebra (or higher) or minimum placement Math Level 10
  • Basic computer competency or CIS 010 Computer Keyboarding and CIS 070 Introduction to Computers: Windows

Additional Program Costs (Beyond Standard Tuition/Fees and Textbooks)

Material Costs

Recommended:

  • 16 to 64 GB portable storage (USB drive or SSD drive): $20 to $100
  • A desktop or laptop computer capable of running the latest version of Windows operating system and the latest version of Microsoft Office: approximately $800
  • Reliable high-speed internet access

Course Requirements

Course Title Credits
Core Courses
CIS 101Information Technology Orientation3
CIS 122Introduction to Programming4
CIS 124IT Fundamentals4
CIS 131Software Applications4
CIS 135DBDatabase Theory/SQL4
CIS 140A+ Essentials I4
CIS 145A+ Essentials II4
CIS 178Internet in Depth4
or CIS 179CL Cloud Essentials
CIS 179Networking Essentials4
CIS 195Web Development I4
CIS 244Information Systems Analysis4
CIS 279WCWindows Client4
or CIS 179L Linux Essentials
CIS 297CIS Professional Capstone4
Networking Option
Choose a minimum of 27 credits from the following:27
Cisco Internetworking
Cisco Router Configuration
Windows Server Configuration
Linux+
Security+
Ethical Hacking
Cybersecurity Operations
Co-op Work Experience CIS
Other Required Courses
BA 214Business Communications3-4
or WR 227Z Technical Writing
COMM 111ZPublic Speaking4
or COMM 218Z Interpersonal Communication
or COMM 219 Small Group Communication
Human Relations:3-4
MTH 102Applied Technical Mathematics (or choose one course from the foundational requirements math list)4
WR 121ZComposition I4
Total Credits96-98

Advising Notes

Core courses are all offered two to three quarters each academic year. All option courses are offered one to two quarters an academic year. Planning ahead is important. Students may take non-program support courses any term to build skills related to prerequisites.

This degree is designed for students planning to enter their chosen career upon graduation. Often only selected credits are considered transferable to public or private baccalaureate institutions.

Performance Standards

  • Academic Requirements:

    • Students must have a 2.0 cumulative GPA to earn a COCC certificate or degree.

    • All courses in the program must be completed with a grade of C or higher.

  • Additional Requirements:

    • All COCC students enrolled in the Computer Information Systems program (which includes requirements for Cooperative Work Experience) may have to pass Criminal History Checks (CHC) as a condition of their acceptance into a work site. Students who do not pass the CHC may not be eligible to complete requirements at affiliated practicum sites or be hired for some professional positions. Students who believe their history may interfere with their ability to complete the program of study should contact the program director.

Sample Plan

Sample Plan Grid
First TermCredits
CIS 101Information Technology Orientation3
CIS 124IT Fundamentals4
MTH 102Applied Technical Mathematics (or choose one course from the foundational requirements math list)4
WR 121ZComposition I4
 Credits15
Second Term
BA 214
Business Communications
or Technical Writing
3-4
CIS 140A+ Essentials I4
CIS 145A+ Essentials II4
CIS 178
Internet in Depth
or Cloud Essentials
4
 Credits15-16
Third Term
CIS 122Introduction to Programming4
CIS 131Software Applications4
Human Relations:3-4
CIS 179Networking Essentials4
COMM 111Z
Public Speaking
or Interpersonal Communication
or Small Group Communication
4
 Credits19-20
Fourth Term
CIS 135DBDatabase Theory/SQL4
CIS 151CCisco Internetworking4
CIS 195Web Development I4
CIS 279WC
Windows Client
or Linux Essentials
4
 Credits16
Fifth Term
CIS 152CCisco Router Configuration4
CIS 244Information Systems Analysis4
CIS 279LLinux+4
CIS 279SCWindows Server Configuration4
 Credits16
Sixth Term
CIS 297CIS Professional Capstone4
CIS 279OPCybersecurity Operations4
CIS 279SESecurity+4
CIS 284EHEthical Hacking4
 Credits16
 Total Credits97-99

Outside of
expected

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