Protect computer networks from cyberattacks and unauthorized access. With a degree in Cybersecurity & Network Administration from MSC Southeast, you will play a key role in protecting your organization's valuable data.
Major Details
The online Cybersecurity & Network Administration degree from Minnesota State College Southeast provides graduates with the technical and soft skills necessary to obtain a position in the exciting and lucrative IT Cybersecurity field.
This 60-credit associate of applied science degree includes 15 credits of college level instruction in math, communications and the humanities and 45 credits of intensive technical training in topics such as cloud security, device hardening, intrusion prevention systems, firewalls, and security threats and countermeasures.
The curriculum was designed with input from the area’s top employers to meet the robust Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and National Security Agency (NSA) guidelines for IT Cybersecurity. This program aligns with 10 industry certifications from respected partners such as CompTIA, Cisco, and Microsoft so that graduates can gain important skills and credentials to build their resumes before they graduate from the program.
Information Security Analysts plan, create, or improve security measures to protect computer networks and information. They make sure security measures are in place so that files, systems, and computers are safe. The opportunities for employment are boundless!
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Courses
1) Must complete a minimum of 3 different MnTC goals in Liberal Arts and Sciences.
2) 1100 or higher Liberal Arts and Sciences courses required unless specified.
GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
COMM1218
College Speech
Students develop interpersonal, small group, and public speaking skills as well as an understanding of basic communication principles. (Fulfills MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisite: none) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
ENGL1215
College Writing I
This course involves expository writing based on experience, direct observation, research and reading with emphasis on critical thinking skills, rhetorical strategies, and style. (Meets MnTC Goal 1) (Prerequisites: Writing College Level Placement or successful completion of ENGL0528) (3 Credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1601
Windows Workstation I
This course will explore the MS workstation networking client. The students will learn how to plan, install and configure a MS workstation in a single and multi-domain environment. Emphasis will be placed on the managing, monitoring and optimizing of network resources. Basic troubleshooting techniques will be discussed as it relates to the Microsoft networking environment. The use of diagnostic and monitoring software will be emphasized. (Prerequisite: None) (2 credits: 1 lecture/1 lab)
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2 cr
NWAT1602
Windows Workstation II
This course will explore the Microsoft Workstation desktop operating system environment. Students will learn how to plan, install, and configure a Microsoft workstation in a standalone and domain environment. Various system management topics will be discussed including system utilities, managing disks, file systems, users, and security. Troubleshooting techniques will be discussed as they relate to Microsoft networking environment. (Prerequisite: NWAT1601) (1 credits: 1 lecture/0 lab)
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1 cr
NWAT1607
IT Fundamentals
Students will learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot PC computer equipment, mobile devices, and various peripherals. A variety of hardware, software, and cybersecurity methods will be covered such as taking a computer apart, motherboards, processors, memory, power, storage devices, I/O devices, introduction to networks, supporting mobile devices, virtualization, cloud computing, and customer support. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA A+ industry certification and students will be prepared to take the exam upon completion of this course. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1641
Networking Fundamentals
This course will provide students with the technical skills necessary to securely establish, maintain, and troubleshoot networks that businesses rely on. Students will gain experience with networking fundamentals, network implementations, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Network+ industry certification. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1649
Windows Server I
This course will provide students with an introduction to the Microsoft Windows Server operating system and basic administration tasks. Students will gain experience with key features including active directory, creating and managing user accounts, printing, installing a network operating system, performance monitoring, and backups. (Prerequisite: NWAT1601, NWAT1602) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1650
Cybersecurity Fundamentals
This course will provide students with a basic understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals. Students will gain experience with attacks, threats, vulnerabilities, architecture, design, implementation, operations, incident response, and risk compliance. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Security+ industry certification and students will be prepared to take the exam upon completion of this course. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT1800
Scripting Fundamentals
This course will provide students with the basic ability to create simple scripts and programs to automate and perform simple operations, and to provide students with the skills necessary to implement algorithms using programming languages to solve problems. This includes basic security practices in developing scripts and programs. (Prerequisite: NWAT1649) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2110
Cloud Computing
This course introduces students to the skills they need to deploy and automate secure cloud environments that support the high availability of business systems and data. You will learn important concepts including cloud architecture & design, cloud security, cloud deployment, operations & support, and troubleshooting. This curriculum is aligned with CompTIA Cloud+ industry certification and helps students prepare for the exam upon completion of this course. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2120
Network Security I
This foundational course provides an overview of the cybersecurity field and explores the characteristics of and tactics used by cyber criminals. It then delves into the technologies, products, and procedures cybersecurity professionals use to combat cybercrime. (Prerequisite: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2125
Server Virtualization
This course introduces students to the skills they need to deploy and manage virtual server environments that can be used to create IT environments that are flexible, scalable, and highly available to support the needs of today's business systems. Students will get hands on experience with various server virtualization products including VMware and Microsoft Hyper-V. (Prerequisite: NWAT1649) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2220
Network Security II
Today's organizations are challenged with responding rapidly to emerging network security threats. Security personnel configure and monitor various network security threat mitigation measures, such as device hardening, intrusion prevention systems, and firewalls, to protect data assets and network systems from attack. The purpose of this course is to provide skills and knowledge in the field of network security. (Prerequisite: NWAT2120) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2683
Security Threats & Countermeasures
Students will gain knowledge and skills to protect networks using the tools and techniques of an ethical hacker. This course will examine new security resources, emerging vulnerabilities, innovative methods to protect networks, and mobile security.(Prerequisites: NWAT1650) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2684
Windows Server & Desktop Security
This course prepares students to manage a Microsoft Windows network in the enterprise. Students will gain experience with key features including Active Directory, configuring group policies, domain controllers, certificate services, and other advanced active directory concepts. (Prerequisites: NWAT1649) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2689
Computer Forensic Investigation
This course introduces students to the digital forensics field. Students will learn about the tools, standards, and best practices used by law enforcement, system administrators, and others who routinely perform digital forensic investigations. (Prerequisites: None) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2692
Electronic Devices Forensics
The Electronic Devices Forensics course provides an introduction to mobile device forensics including practical approaches and best practices involved in performing mobile forensics. Students will examine the internals of popular mobile devices including their operating systems, hardware, and security concepts. Students will gain an understanding of the tools available to perform mobile forensic tasks including data acquisitions, data recovery, and industry best practices. (Prerequisites: NWAT1601, NWAT1602, NWAT1641, NWAT1649, NWAT2681, and NWAT2689) (3 credits: 3 lecture/0 lab)
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3 cr
NWAT2900
Cybersecurity Operations
This course provides students with skills to develop practical, relevant, and job-ready knowledge and skills required of cybersecurity analysts employed in a Security Operations Center (SOC). In this course, candidates will learn how to detect and respond to security threats using the latest technology. This course aligns to the CCNA CyberOps certification which demonstrates that the student has the skills and knowledge needed to begin a career in cybersecurity operations, addressing cybersecurity threats that enterprises are faced with on a daily basis. (Prerequisite: NWAT2220) (3 credits: 2 lecture/1 lab)
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3 cr
Total Credits Required for this Major: 60 Credits
Estimated Costs for this Major
| Approximate Tuition/Fees: | $12,695 |
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| Minimum Tool Cost: | N/A |
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| Books/Supplies: | $750 |
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| Estimated Total: | $13,445 |
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Career Opportunities
- Private industry cyber security manager
- Information security analyst
- Security software developer
- Cybersecurity consultant
- Cyber security private investigator
Career Information
Use the MN DEED Career and Education Explorer Data Tool to learn about wages, job growth, and much more in this career field.
Outcomes
Program graduates will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to understand fundamental concepts behind cybersecurity that will help them design security systems that can be trusted.
- Demonstrate an understanding of software and hardware components in modern computing environments and their individual functions.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how networks are built and operate with the skills to identify security vulnerabilities and the proficiency to secure them.
- Demonstrate proficiency with the concepts, tools, and security controls that can be used to protect networks, servers, and applications from cybersecurity threats.
Highlights
- Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills used to build, maintain, troubleshoot, and secure IT systems.
- Emphasis on soft skills includes how to communicate professionally with customers and co-workers.
- Program is designed to align with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and National Security Agency (NSA) curriculum for earning the NSA Certificate of Academic Excellence (CAE-CD) designation.
- Coursework is taught online for maximum flexibility.
Instructors
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Benjamin Adank
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Ben Adank is a full-time faculty member in the Cyber Information & Security and Network Systems & Administration programs. He taught as an adjunct and part time instructor in both areas from 2011-2020. As an industry expert at Itechra, a full service IT consulting company based in Winona, Ben brings a wealth of experience to his role at the college.
Ben holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Management from Bemidji State University and an associate degree in Information Technology from Western Technical College. He volunteers in the community as an elected official in Milton, WI; a founding board member of the Cochrane Fountain Youth Athletic Association; and as a Winona Chamber of Commerce board member.