Information Technology Cyber Defense Option, A.A.S.
Prairie State College’s Information Technology Cyber Defense Option A.A.S. program provides comprehensive training in cybersecurity, network protection, and digital defense techniques. Designed to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, this degree prepares you for a career in defending computer networks and systems from cyber attacks, helping organizations stay secure in an increasingly digital world.
What Can You Do with a Information Technology Degree in Cyber Defense?
This program prepares students for entry-level employment in information assurance
and cybersecurity. The program combines both networking and systems administration
fundamentals, with a focus on defensive strategies to securing networks and systems.
The Cyber Defense option emphasizes computer security and information assurance concepts
augmented with current accepted security practices. Topics cover threats and vulnerabilities,
prevention at the technical and human levels, detection, response, and management
aspects of security.
Suggested Curriculum
The Cyber Defense option emphasizes computer security and information assurance concepts
augmented with current accepted security practices. Topics cover threats and vulnerabilities,
prevention at the technical and human levels, detection, response, and management
aspects of security.
Area A: Communication (6 credits)
- COMM 101 Principles of Communication (C2 900)
- ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900)
Area B: Humanities and Fine Arts or Area E: Social and Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)
Select one course from Area B (3) or Area E (3)
Area C: Mathematics (3 credits)
- IT 106 Mathematics for Computers
Area D: Physical and Life Sciences (3 credits)
Select one course from Area D (3)
Core Courses:
- IT 101 IT Orientation
- IT 140 Introduction to Operating Systems
- IT 201 Systems Design and Development
- IT 205 Ethics in Information Technology
Cyber Defense Concentration Courses:
- IT 240 Linux Operating System
- IT 253 Linux System Administration
- ITCYB 103 Introduction to Cybersecurity
- ITCYB 143 Scripting and Security
- ITCYB 153 Digital Forensics
- ITCYB 203 Advanced Network Defense
- ITCYB 273 Cybersecurity Operations
- ITNET 165 Introduction to Networking
- ITNET 175 Introduction to Networking II
- ITNET 250 Introduction to LAN Administration
- ITNET 260 Network Security Fundamentals
- ITNET 280 Ethical Hacking
Note: Due to the rapid change of technology in IT fields, there is a five year time limit on applying courses with IT, ITAPP, ITNET, ITPRG, and ITWEB prefixes to this program. Information Technology will accept returning student courses that are 5-7 years old if the student received a grade of “A” or “B” for the course. If the student did not receive a grade of “A” or “B” for the course and the course is older than 5 years, the course will not be accepted for completion of any IT degree or program. Courses beyond 7 years, with any grade, will not be accepted for this program.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Faculty Contact Information
Jackie Dennis
Professor Emeritus
Email: jdennis@prairiestate.edu
Brian Donovan
Professor, Department Chair
Email: bdonovan@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-2959
Office: 2184
Nichelle Manuel
Associate Professor
Email: nmanuel2@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-3649
Office: 2184
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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