For more information, visit the Dallas College Cyber Security webpage and your academic advisor at the Richland Campus.
This is an example course sequence for students interested in pursuing the Cyber Security – Cyber Defense Emphasis associate degree. It does not represent a contract, nor does it guarantee course availability. Following this pathway will help you earn an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Cyber Security. Students must earn at least 25% of the credit hours (15 hours) required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College. See catalog for official degree requirements.
The A.A.S. degree in Cyber Security–Cyber Defense Emphasis is designed to prepare students for various entry-level opportunities in the information security sector with emphasis in cyber security. The Cyber Defense emphasis combines both networking and systems administration fundamentals with a focus on defensive strategies to securing networks and systems. Students completing this degree can apply for jobs such as: SOC Analyst, Penetration Tester, Incident Responder. Courses that complete the degree are noted below.
Catalog Year 2021-2022 You may use this pathway if you entered Dallas College on or before this date.
Degree Type Associate of Applied Science
GPA Requirement Student must earn a GPA of 2.0 or higher
TSI Must be Complete
SEMESTER-BY-SEMESTER MAP FOR FULL-TIME STUDENTS
All plans can be modified to fit the needs of part-time students. This is not an official degree plan. See catalog for official degree requirements.
AAS DEGREE MINIMUM: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS
SEMESTER 1
ENGL 1301 – Composition I This is a Core course. You must earn a grade of "C" or better.
ITCC 1414 – CCNA 1: Introduction to Networks
MATH 1314 – College Algebra This is a Core course. You must earn a grade of "C" or better.
ITSC 1416 – Linux Installation and Configuration
POFI 1104 – Computer Fundamentals Students must choose Word Processing Skills or Spreadsheet Skills.
SEMESTER 1 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your advisor to confirm academic and career goals before the end of the semester.
- Meet with a career advisor or coach to research your career options.
- Attend an industry related meetup group.
- Get certified in Redhat or Linux+.
Total Hours: 15
SEMESTER 2
ITSY 1400 – Fundamentals of Information Security
ITMT 2405 – Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure
ITCC 1440 – CCNA 2: Routing and Switching Essentials This course is now offered as ITCC 1444.
SPCH 1321 – Business and Professional Communication This is a Core course.
SEMESTER 2 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with your advisor to request an official program of study audit and confirm or update your academic/career path and program of study.
- Obtain Security+ certification.
- Attend an industry related meetup group.
- Participate in Cyber Security club meetings and competitions.
Total Hours: 15
SEMESTER 3
ITMT 1457 – Administering a Windows Server Operating System
ITSY 1442 – Information Technology Security
ITSE 1429 – Programming Logic and Design
HUMANITIES/FINE ARTS ELECTIVE* This is a Core course.
* There are several options to fulfill this requirement. See your academic advisor for a specific list.
SEMESTER 3 ACTION ITEMS
- Meet with a career advisor or coach for assistance in preparing for job search.
- Obtain CySA+ certification.
- Attend an industry related meetup group.
- Participate in Cyber Security club meetings and competitions.
- Meet with faculty regarding internship opportunities.
Total Hours: 15
SEMESTER 4
ITSY 2401 – Firewalls and Network Security
ITSC 2425 – Advanced Linux
SOCIAL/BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES ELECTIVE * This is a Core course.
CHOOSE ONE:
- ITSY 2472 – Ethical Hacking and System Defense OR
- ITSY 2486 – Internship-Computer and Information Security
* There are several options to fulfill this requirement. See your academic advisor for a specific list.
SEMESTER 4 ACTION ITEMS
- Obtain Pentest+ Certification.
- See faculty or career services for employment opportunities.
- Review your degree plan and apply for the Cyber Security A.A.S.
- Sign up for Commencement.
- Join the Alumni Network!
Total Hours: 15
PATHWAY TOTAL: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS