Cyber Basics

A comprehensive overview of cybersecurity that focuses on foundational knowledge required to be in the cybersecurity industry and the technologies used to defend against threats and the exploitation of vulnerabilities. Topics include privacy, polices, security standards, regulatory compliance, cryptography, physical security measures, access controls, security elements of operating systems, network security measures, anti-malware tools, anti-spam measures, anti-piracy systems, software development methods supporting security, and security certifications for software products. The Information Assurance architecture and how the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards are used to secure networks.

When the Cyber Basics concentration is taken along with the Human Aspects and Analytics certificate and one of the following certificates: Computer Forensic Investigation/Incident Response Team Management, Critical Infrastructure Protection & Cyber Crime, Cyber Law & International Perspectives on Cyberspace, Vulnerability Management, Project Management, or Procurement & Government Contract Management the student can apply to the Master of Science, Cybersecurity program to be awarded the M.S. degree. Contact the director of the program for details.

Students who do not have a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity need to demonstrate that they have a baseline knowledge in the following areas:

• Computer Networking

• Computer Science/Cybersecurity

• Linux operating system

• Scripting and Programming

• Microsoft Operating Systems

• Database systems (SQL)

This knowledge can be achieved through college credit, industry training, industry certification, or professional experience.

A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution, as evaluated by WES, IERF, SpanTran, or CED.

• Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher