Professional Technical Degree

Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree

Area of Study
Information Technology
Offered Online
Yes
Program Coordinator

Alex Markunas
(360) 417-6270
amarkunas@pencol.edu

Program Description

Increased cybersecurity threats and new homeland security policies have produced a growing national demand for cybersecurity professionals with knowledge of cybersecurity, ethical hacking, intrusion testing, vulnerability assessment, and computer forensics. In addition, the growth of universal and mobile computing require new approaches to information security and the protection of information systems from unauthorized access, modification, or destruction. The Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics program prepares students for entry level employment in cybersecurity and computer forensics careers including cyber incident and response, vulnerability detection and assessment analyst, computer forensic analyst, and computer forensics investigator. Foundation courses introduce students to the legal, ethical, and theoretical issues in cybersecurity and computer forensics technology. Core courses expand student depth and skills in ethical hacking, criminal justice, evidentiary analysis, and the development of a forensically sound environment. Capstone courses provide practicum experience and opportunity to participate in the Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC). Successful completion of this program leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics. Students are required to have access to computer, internet, and browser. 

(Students who plan to transfer to Western Washington University’s BS in Computer and Information Systems Security program must complete MATH& 141 Pre Calculus I, MATH& 142 Pre Calculus II and MATH& 151 Calculus: Analytic Geometry. Please note these Math classes are not always offered online.)

Program Length: 6 Quarters
Program Code: CISCCAPT

Career Opportunities and Earnings 

There is a high demand for talented people with cybersecurity skills; and an increasing number of employers are seeking workers with knowledge of Computer forensics tool. Graduates may find positions with a variety of critical infrastructure companies and organizations in the public and private sectors. Some employers may require employee background checks.

  • Computer forensic analyst
  • Cybersecurity specialist
  • Incident responder
  • Information security analyst
  • Security monitoring and event analysis
  • System and network penetration tester

For current employment and wage estimates, please visit and search for the relevant occupational term: bls.gov/oes.

Program Outcomes

When this program is completed, the student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the core concepts, tools, and methods used to secure computer systems
  • Identify and present indicators that a cybersecurity incident has occurred
  • Apply criminal justice methods to cybersecurity and computer forensic investigations
  • Plan, implement, and evaluate penetration testing and ethical hacking of computer systems
  • Identify, analyze, and mitigate threats to internal computer systems
  • Collect, process, analyze, and present computer forensic evidence
  • Work in teams to analyze and resolve cybersecurity issues
  • Apply critical thinking skills to risk analysis of computer systems

Special Features

  • The program encourages students to explore the legal, ethical, and global impact of cybercrime on private, public, and personal computing infrastructures
  • The courses are based on the CNSSI standards established by the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) for training information systems security professionals
  • The program provides up to date curriculum that adapts to the rapidly changing field of cybersecurity and computer forensics
  • The Peninsula College Cybersecurity and Computer Forensics program is significantly more cost effective than most private and public schools

Approximate Additional Costs

  • Books, supplies and miscellaneous fees (per quarter): $200 - $250

Sample Schedule  

This sample schedule is provided as a guide for a full-time student starting in fall quarter whose goal is to earn the AAS. The typical student schedule is based on entering the program during the fall quarter, however some programs allow students to enter in the winter or spring as well. Since not all do, please confirm with an advisor whether this program must be started during a specific quarter or not. 

First Quarter (Fall)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

An introduction to fundamentals of computer science. Topics covered include algorithmic design; problem-solving techniques for computer programming; fundamentals of digital logic and computer organization; the role of the operating system; introductory programming methodology, including variables, assignment statements, control statements and subroutines (methods); programming paradigms; the compilation process; theoretical limits of computation; database structures; and social and ethical issues. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Natural Sciences, Elective)

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

This course is an introduction to technologies, terminology, and skills used in the world of data networking. Emphasis is on practical applications of networking and computer technology to real-world problems, including home and small-business network setup. You will perform a variety of hands-on and case project activities combined with your reading activities that will reinforce each of the course objectives. This course maps to CTCITC 115: Introduction to Networking. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

This course provides an overview of information technology (IT) with emphasis on making technical and business decisions. The course will introduce students to a variety of IT areas and identify their connections. Course topics include: office productivity applications, basic computer hardware, networking and security, and webpage creation and programming. Problem-based learning will be used to stress employability skills such as teamwork, written and oral communication, problem solving, trouble shooting, and project management. Students will also research an IT career path and describe the opportunities and the requirements needed for employment. Course maps to CTCITC 110 course. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
15

Second Quarter (Winter)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

This course covers the skills and knowledge required to make informed, critical decisions with cloud technologies and the impact they have on businesses. Learn the fundamentals of cloud technologies, deployment models, fiscal impact and use cases for businesses. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

This course covers technical skills with mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing and network troubleshooting. Includes skills required for installing and configuring operating systems, expanded security, and software troubleshooting. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
15

Third Quarter (Spring)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

Provides an introduction to the field of Cyber Security through the analysis of technology and concepts in the field of cyber security and cybercrime. This course provides a complete introduction to the protection of business information and systems that support business process. The objective is to identify common threats and attacks, analyze the role of security techniques and architectures, explain the role of cryptography, and analyze issues related to managing security. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

Introduction to the principles of database management systems. Topics include database system architecture, data models, theory of database design, query optimization, concurrency control, crash recovery, and storage strategies. This course maps to the CTCITC 114: Database Design and Implementation course. This class will include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

This course introduces Windows Server operating systems through the implementation and administration of Windows Servers in a virtual Network environment. Topics include server roles and features, best practices in server configuration and administration, and server participation in a network environment. This course tracks to Microsoft’s MCSA Certification for Servers but does not cover all topics in those exams and is not designed to fully prepare students for certification. Recommended that students enter the course with some experience and prior knowledge of virtualization and the basics functions of operating systems. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
15

Fourth Quarter (Fall)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

This course serves as an introduction into the skills, steps and concepts related to the field of penetration testing and ethical hacking. The modern penetration tester or “pen tester” relies on a specific set of skills to help secure IT infrastructure by testing defenses. This course places a heavy emphasis on the ethical issues and practices required by all professional penetration testers. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

Covers advanced networking and network security concepts & skills including routing, switching, virtual LANs, network design, routing protocols, network management and software defined networking. Secure network design, implementation and monitoring/maintenance are taught using hands-on projects for students. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

An introduction to shell scripting and automation with Bash (Unix/Linux), Powershell (Windows) and how to automate systems administration and networking tasks in server, client and networking environments. This class may include students from multiple sections

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
15

Fifth Quarter (Winter)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

This course explores the basic security landscape through the topics of risks, threats, control and encryption. Learn how to assess and prioritize risks with computer system, implement authentication controls and the functions of encryption/cryptography. Course may prepare students to complete Security + certification. Course maps to CTCITC117 Security +. This class may include students from multiple sections. 

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

Active reading, effective writing, and critical thinking, using subjective and objective approaches. Introduction to research techniques. This class may include students from multiple sections. (Communication Skills)

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Sub-Total Credits
15

Sixth Quarter (Spring)

Catalog #
Title
Credits
5

College mathematics used in professional and technical programs. Content includes mathematical modeling and applications employing numerical operations; measurements; geometry; linear and nonlinear equations; exponent, radical, and polynomial operations; functions; formulas; plane analytical geometry with graphing; and an introduction to trigonometry. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

5

Provides cybersecurity students with the opportunity to develop a complex, quarter long project working in the field of information security. Students will work with their instructor to determine career readiness and develop a project focused on honing specific individual skills based on areas of need. Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with others and learn from real world needs, often working with industry on projects. This class may include students from multiple sections.

Credits: 5

View Full Course

Social Sciences  +
5
Sub-Total Credits
15

Your personal educational plan will vary based on many factors including:  

Total Credits
90