Information Technology Cyber Systems Option, A.A.S.
Prairie State College’s Cyber Systems A.A.S. program provides hands-on training in network design, system administration, and cybersecurity practices. Designed to meet industry demands, this program prepares you for roles in protecting digital assets and maintaining secure IT environments.
What Can You Do with a Cyber Systems Degree in Information Technology?
This program prepares students for entry-level employment in information assurance
and cybersecurity. The program combines both networking and systems administration
fundamentals with the requisite security concepts and best practices required to implement,
administer, and harden operating systems.
The Cyber Systems option incorporates a study of data communications fundamentals
together with an in depth study of current networking architectures and protocols.
Client/server and peer networks are studied with an emphasis on securing the systems
from attack. Systems studied with intensive labs include Microsoft, UNIX/LINUX, and
Cisco.
Suggested Curriculum
The Cyber Systems A.A.S. program at Prairie State College prepares students for entry-level
roles in cybersecurity and network administration, combining networking, systems management,
and security training. With hands-on labs and industry certifications like CompTIA
and Cisco, graduates are ready to secure networks and support IT systems in various
organizations.
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 Systems Concentration Courses:
- IT 240 Linux Operating System
- IT 253 Linux System Administration
- ITCYB 103 Introduction to Cybersecurity
- ITCYB 143 Scripting and Security
- ITNET 160 Computer Repair
- ITNET 165 Introduction to Networking
- ITNET 175 Introduction to Networking II
- ITNET 235 CCNA LAN Design
- ITNET 250 Introduction to LAN Administration
- ITNET 260 Network Security Fundamentals
- ITNET 263 Advanced Windows Server Administration
- ITPRG 158 Python Programming
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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