Cybersecurity Program Macro-Design

Core Course IT Fundamentals OR Introduction to IT This course is intended to ensure a base level of computer literacy prior to entry into the program. While the other courses are Level 3 courses, the core course is set at Level 2 and may be taken as early as the 8th grade. Year 1 Computer & Network Security Fundamentals This rigorous course provides students with foundational skills and knowledge essential to the study of cybersecurity, including basic concepts, components, terminology, and knowledge about computers, computer systems, and networks in the context of security. Students should have completed an introductory course in computers prior to or concurrent with enrollment in this course. Key Topics: Introduction to Cybersecurity Computer components System Configuration OSI Model Networking Network Services Security Basics Cyber-ethics Virtualization Remote/Mobile Access Physical Security Year 2 Cybersecurity Essentials This highly rigorous course provides students with greater insight into the world of cybersecurity, including in-depth study of vulnerabilities, types of cybersecurity attacks, cryptographic systems, certificate services, and intrusion detection and prevention. Key Topics: Overview of Cybersecurity Types of Vulnerabilities Attack Mechanisms Cryptographic Systems Certificate Services Intrusion Detection Intrusion Prevention Social Engineering Year 3 Operational Cybersecurity The intense course provides students with in-depth knowledge and skills associated with controlling access, hardening systems against intrusion, prevention methodologies, mitigation and disaster planning, and forensic analysis. Key Topics: Host Configuration Access Control Securing Services Hardening Key Management Privilege Management Risk Identification Incidence Response Penetration Testing Year 4 Choice of one or more courses. Applied Cybersecurity Applications 1.0 credit This is a full one-credit capstone course that is projectbased, preferably based on real-world projects. Projects selected for this course should provide opportunities for students to work individually and as part of a team, and span the full range of skills/competencies acquired during the first three courses. Project may be conducted in a virtual environment. Student participation in state and national cybersecurity challenges and competitions are encouraged. Cybersecurity Planning & Analysis 1.0 credit This is a full one-credit course that addresses mitigation planning, disaster planning, business continuity planning, and forensic analysis. Database Security 1.0 credit This is a full one-credit course that addresses strategies employed to mitigate data compromise, including design, access, and deployment. Software & Application Security 1.0 credit This is a full one-credit course that addresses the creation of secure software applications, including identifying the vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies. Students should have completed at least one programming course prior to taking this course.

Web Security 1.0 credit This is a full one-credit course that addresses vulnerabilities and attack mechanisms unique to ASP/PHP/CF websites, add-ins, controls, widgets, and client/server scripting. Students should have a foundation in JavaScript, VBScript, Perl, or PHP prior to taking this course. Industry Certifications: This program lineup should accommodate students earning industry certifications in the following: CompTIA Security+ and Systems Security Certified Practitioner Associate (SSCP) from (ISC)2. The Year 4 contains a representative list of courses that students might wish to pursue in greater detail based on their interest and availability at their school. Depending on the student and school offering, students should be able to take one or more of these courses at the same time. It may also be possible for students to begin taking elective courses during Year 3. This arrangement makes the overall program extensible as the field continues to evolve and skill expectations change. Separate course in Forensic Analysis under consideration.