Computer Networking and Cybersecurity Program - IT Certification Preparation | SCIT Southern California Institute of Technology

Learn to install, maintain and secure computer network infrastructures for a range of business sizes and types in an 8 month, hands-on program aimed at preparing you for a career in information technology and cybersecurity.

8 Months

PM Classes

Campus or Online

Prepare for IT certifications, including: CompTIA A+®, CySA+®, Linux+®, Network+®, Security+®, and Cisco CCNA®. Bootcamp resources and workshops available.

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Request More Info

Submit form for more program information.

We Respect Your Privacy

Information submitted on this form is sent to the SCIT Admissions Department and is not shared with any third parties.

COMPUTER NETWORKING & CYBERSECURITY

Program Overview

The Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program is an accelerated 8 month training program designed for students to learn how to install, maintain and secure network infrastructures from the ground up. No prior networking knowledge is assumed. Students learn to configure Cisco® based network devices (e.g. enterprise routers, switches, and wireless controllers) to support effective and secure communication between servers and clients, and further learn to install and configure Microsoft Windows® and Linux based servers in mixed, on-premises and cloud environments to support common network services (e.g. Account Management, File Sharing, Web Hosting, etc.).

The program covers multiple industry recognized certifications listed below. Students are provided with resources to prepare for IT certifications as they progress through the program. Additionally, SCIT offers students enrolled in the program up to $600 of reimbursement for successful completion of select IT certifications through its Cert Success Program. Please contact the Admissions Office for terms and conditions.

CompTIA A+®
CompTIA CySA+®
CompTIA Linux+®
CompTIA Network+®
CompTIA Security+®
Cisco CCNA®

The program is composed of 7, 5-week modules (8 months total). Courses are offered during evening hours starting around 5pm with most courses scheduled between Mondays-Thursdays*. For details and start dates, please contact the Admissions Office or request for information.

The Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program is offered in the following formats:

BLENDED (PART-CAMPUS/PART-ONLINE)
Some courses are offered on-campus (in-person) whereas others are offered online. Courses containing substantial hands-on labs are generally those offered on-campus utilizing SCIT’s instructional lab facilities.

ONLINE
All courses are taken fully online with trainers utilized for labs completed at home.

* Some courses may have a Friday session.

Program Curriculum

The program’s curriculum is designed for students to build their knowledge and skills from the ground up toward entering a variety of entry-level IT and cybersecurity positions such as helpdesk computer support specialists, computer network support specializes or IT administrator support specialists. Students begin with fundamental computer and networking concept and then move toward advanced network implementations utilizing Cisco® based devices and network services served by Microsoft® Server and Linux based systems that can scale from small to large business IT infrastructures.

Click on the course topics below to learn more. Please refer to the catalog for a detailed list of course codes, titles and units.

Computer Hardware Fundamentals

Students study PC hardware components and current operating system administration of workstation computer systems. The majority of the course revolves around the CompTIA A+® certification. While in the lab, students will have a chance to tear apart and build computers. They will also learn how to create and configure virtual machines.

Networking Fundamentals

Basic networking concepts such as IP addressing, subnets, RJ45 crimping, OSI Model are studied in this course. It will prepare students for Cisco® CCENT (ICND1) certification and CompTIA Network+® certification. In the lab, students learn to crimp wires (Ethernet cables and Cat5e) and connect computers to physical routers and switches.

Linux Fundamentals

Students learn fundamental concepts and skills needed to navigate and utilize the Linux operating system. Topics such as basic command-line operations, file system navigation, user management, process control and a host of other topics are covered with an emphasis on cybersecurity best practices. Much of the topics included in the CompTIA Linux+® certification are covered.

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Students study fundamental concepts and principles of cybersecurity, including access management, common threats and vulnerabilities, cryptography and PKI, and various types of cyber attacks. Course topics and lab work help prepare students for the CompTIA Security+® and CySA+® certifications.

Cisco® Devices & Security

Students study configuration, administration, troubleshooting and securing of Cisco® based routers and switches. Students also study network security applications such as VPNs and firewalls using Cisco® based devices. The course and lab work help prepare students for Cisco CCNA® certification.

Mixed Environments and Cloud

Students learn how to effectively integrate and manage diverse operating systems within a cohesive network infrastructure that may include both on-premises and cloud environments. The course covers essential networking concepts, such as TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, and routing, while exploring the intricacies of both Windows and Linux server administration. Students will gain hands-on experience in setting up and configuring Windows Active Directory and Linux-based LDAP for user authentication and centralized management. They will learn to implement file sharing and print services, deploy and manage virtual machines on both platforms, and explore techniques for securing and monitoring the network environment.

About the IT & Cybersecurity Fields

Nearly all companies require some level of IT support to perform business critical functions. Some larger or technology oriented organizations may staff full-time helpdesk support technicians and IT administrators whereas others contract IT support roles to companies that specialize in providing low-cost IT setup, monitoring and cybersecurity services. Many organizations opt to pass the IT and cybersecurity responsibilities to technically savvy employees who primarily have other responsibilities. Whichever of these cases, the need for those with practical skills and knowhow of core information technologies and cybersecurity best practices is clear for today’s modern business environments.

The Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program’s goal is to train students to have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform a broad spectrum of IT support and cybersecurity functions ranging from end-user support, installation and troubleshooting of critical network appliances such as routers and switches, and performing continuous security monitoring to prevent and respond to cyber threats. The types of skills one needs to be successful in this field include:

Analytical Skills: Industry professionals work on technology that requires workers to read and understand what technical manuals are showing them.
Communication Skills: As an IT and cyber professional, there will be many technical words and concepts that colleagues may not understand. Part of your job may include teaching colleagues with less computer skills what it means in terms they can understand. You should enjoy helping others succeed.
Ingenuity: The industry is always changing and evolving. IT and cyber professionals who excel stay on top of trends and often offer solutions to problems that require outside the box thinking.
Problem Solving: Many of the situations you face will feel like a puzzle. You should enjoy looking at something that should be working, but isn’t, and troubleshooting how to fix it.
Project Management: It’s not uncommon to work on several projects at the same time. IT and cyber professionals have to be good at meeting deadlines and managing projects in an environment where goals can change as problems arise.

Key Program
TOPICS

Develop skills needed to begin an IT and cyber career by learning to install, administer, secure and troubleshoot a range of networking appliances and operating systems including Cisco® routers/switches, Microsoft Windows Server®, Linux-based servers, and much more. Explore key topics below:

CONFIGURE & TROUBLESHOOT PC Hardware and OS

Build a PC based on use case requirements and learn about the administrative tools and techniques necessary to manage Microsoft® and Linux based systems with both physical and virtual servers and clients.

CONFIGURE & TROUBLESHOOTCisco® Networking Devices

Work with Cisco networking appliances (both physical and virtual) to configure, secure and troubleshoot the underlying networking apparatus that support a local area network (LAN) or Wide Area Network (WAN), including managed switch configurations, routing protocols, VOIP telephony configuration, and much more.

DETECT, PREVENT & RESPOND TOCybersecurity Threats

Utilize popular cybersecurity tools to monitor network traffic, detect and prevent network intrusion, and respond to cybersecurity breaches.

B.S. Information Systems Degree Opportunities

Students may have the opportunity to continue their education toward a degree to open further career opportunities.

Cyber/IS Career Pathway

Start by completing the Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program and find entry level employment in the IT and/or cyber fields. Work in the field while pursuing a B.S. Information Systems degree in the evenings. At the end you will have a diploma, a degree and work experience.

Learn more about BSIS program.

Degree Topics Include: Linux Server Security, Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts, Dynamic Web Technologies, Computer Programming, BASH Scripting, Information Systems Auditing, Ethical Hacking, Databases, Cloud Computing and Virtualization, Senior Capstone Project and much more.