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DSU is a place where innovation meets opportunity. We are a nationally recognized leader in technology-driven education, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. With hands-on learning experiences, expert faculty, and cutting-edge facilities, we prepare you for modern careers. Choose from a wide range of affordable, forward-thinking programs that allow you to shape your own path. Your future begins today.

Majors & Degrees

Cyber and Network Security, AS

Program Quick Facts

Credits

60

Start Terms

Fall

|

Spring

|

Summer

Available

On Campus

|

Online

Tuition

$8,956.50

estimated cost per semester

More tuition details

With an Associate of Science in Cyber and Network Security, you’ll learn the fundamentals of computer systems and security to install, maintain, and secure inner-connected networks. Through hands-on learning, you’ll build the skills to administer and troubleshoot network security and infrastructure systems like firewalls, operating systems, servers, routers, and switches.

You will be prepared for a career in system administration with a strong foundation in cybersecurity skills, including defensive hacking, penetration testing, and network forensics. This training will equip you to effectively protect and manage your organization's computer systems and network infrastructure, making you a valuable IT professional.

Curriculum & experience highlights

A flexible, fast, and hands-on degree

Our cyber and network security associate degree program is built to fit your life, with options to study 100% online or on campus. Designed for both traditional students and working professionals, this hands-on program combines expert instruction with the flexibility to learn on your schedule. Choose the accelerated track and earn your degree in as little as 18 months by taking full-time courses over four consecutive semesters.

The path to CCNA certification at DSU

Enhance your skills with the Cisco Networking Academy at DSU—a flexible, hands-on program designed to prepare you for the industry-respected CCNA certification. The Academy complements your core networking courses by offering self-paced learning, expert support, and real-world training aimed to boost your career potential. Once you’ve completed courses in Networking I, Networking II, and Routing & Switching, you can join the academy and begin your certification journey.

Why choose DSU?

Student presenting in front of class

Advanced technology resources

As a DSU student, you’ll have hands-on access to enterprise-grade networking gear and servers, which are the most current technology resources for learning cyber and network security. The virtual and physical labs provide hands-on projects, preparing you to manage and protect network devices within any industry immediately after graduation.

Notable courses

This course will introduce students to cyber operations topics, including, but not limited to, security fundamental principle, vulnerabilities, legal/ethical issues, applied cryptography, and wireless communications.  In addition, students will learn to analyze security context and consider mitigations through introductory reverse engineering and penetration testing exercises.

Computer Science I is an introduction to computer programming. It focuses on problem solving, algorithm development, design, and programming concepts. Topics include sequence, selection, repetition, functions, and arrays. Computer Science II includes problem solving, algorithm design, standards of program style, debugging, and testing. It is an extension of the control structures and data structures of the high-level language introduced in CSC 150. Additionally, Elementary data structures and basic algorithms that include sorting and searching will be covered. More topics include advanced treatment of functions, data types such as arrays and structures, and files.

Students will learn to design, configure, implement, and troubleshoot multiple LAN/WAN network technologies using enterprise routers, switches, and firewalls. In addition, students will demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the underlying protocols. The class will incorporate lectures and hands-on lab projects using modern routing and switching equipment from varying vendors. Students will learn to analyze business needs and recommend appropriate network and routing solutions regardless of the network size or complexity.

The course will review information security programs, security policies and procedures, as well as investigate disaster recovery, security awareness, and I.T. auditing concepts. In addition, students will understand and interpret current regulatory bodies that influence businesses from an IT security standpoint. Special attention will be paid to legal and ethical considerations surrounding cyber operations from a military and government perspective, including international/U.S. laws, authorities applicable to a given scenario, and moral reasoning models.

Faculty

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Career possibilities in cyber and network security

Our graduates are recruited to work within various industries including business, education, manufacturing, software, finance, and insurance. As an IT network and security professional, you will play an important role in managing and securing technology and data assets. After completing your associate degree, seamlessly transfer all of your credits toward a bachelor’s degree in network and security administration.

Your future at DSU begins today.

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