Program Overview
The Cybersecurity program prepares students to plan, implement, and defend networks of all sizes. Cybersecurity professionals specialize in protecting networks for threats that can cause loss of money or time due to systems being unavailable. Hawkeye's dedicated data center for students provides all of the tools and equipment needed to learn security best practices in a hands-on environment.
The Cybersecurity program prepares you to design setup, and secure devices and networks. You will gain knowledge and skills in:
- Computer hardware
- Desktop and server operating systems
- Server configuration and administration
- Network security
- Secure VPN solutions
- Wireless network security and administration
- Server, host device, and network device hardening
- Programming and scripting
- Network attacks and countermeasures
- Project management
Hands-on Learning Experiences
Data Center: Learn to build and maintain industry-standard networks, including how to secure the network, protect against hacking attacks, and how to recover from an attack. Gain experience with a variety of operating systems and implement strategies to maintain network uptime and data confidentiality and integrity.
Internship: Gain 192 hours of real-world work experience ensuring you have the skills you need to succeed in your future career.
Certifications
In the information technology industry certifications are a must. Hawkeye is recognized as a Cisco Regional Academy and a VMware IT Academy. You may receive the CompTIA A+ Net+ and Security+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA), and VMware certifications.
Transfer Information
The University of Northern Iowa's Department of Applied Engineering and Technical Management has a documented pathway between Hawkeye's Cybersecurity AAS degree program and UNI's Technology Management Bachelor of Arts degree. Check out UNI's transfer guide to learn more.
If you plan to transfer, work closely with a program advisor to ensure courses transfer and you meet program requirements.