Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics
Do you know that computer hackers have exposed the personal information of 110 million Americans in the last 12 months? This program will teach you the ins and outs of computer security as well as how to keep information safe.
With millions of Americans having their personal information stolen each year, the need for Cybersecurity counter measures to keep information safe is needed more and more. Every day, there are new reports about the need for additional cyber security professionals in the news. The role of computers and portable media devices in criminal investigation activity has increased dramatically in recent years.
This program allows you to be part of cutting-edge technology in some of the fastest growing and emerging careers. Area of study for this program will include; basic computer safety, social engineering, essential security awareness, implementing countermeasures to keep data safe as well as the study of methods of deception.
Students will work both individually and as part of a team to understand data breaches and develop solutions to deter criminals from gaining access in the future. You will then use the skills you learn in class to problem solve weaknesses in a variety of electronic devices.
Career opportunities in this field are unlimited and the employment outlook remains strong.
Program Syllabus
Our mission is to provide students with the essential knowledge, skills, and work habits to excel in their careers and future learning.
Course Title
Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
National Career Cluster: Information Technology
Michigan Career Pathway: Management, Marketing & Technology
Instructor
Mark Dodak
517.244.1300
Central Michigan University, M.A., B.A.
Instructional Assistant
Lori Langone
517.244.1335
Michigan State University, M.A.
Pennsylvania State University, B.A.
Types of Credit
Fourth year math credit
Elective Credit: Recommended by WTC; awarded by sending school
Course Outline Year One
- Cisco Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer
- Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Cisco Computer Hardware Basics
- Cisco Operating System Basics
- Cisco IT Essentials
- Cisco Exploring IoT with Cisco Packet Tracer
- Cisco Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation
- Cisco Linux Unhatched
- TestOutIT Fundamentals Pro (Becoming Tech+)
- TestOut PC Pro
- Exam Opportunity (Fall): CompTIA Tech+
- Exam Opportunity (Spring): CompTIA A+ Part 1
Course Outline Year Two
- Cisco Exploring Networking with Cisco Packet Tracer
- Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity (Fall 2024 only)
- Cisco Networking Basics
- Cisco Networking Devices and Initial Configuration
- Cisco Endpoint Security
- Cisco Network Defense
- Cisco Cyber Threat Management
- TestOut Network Pro
- Exam (At End of Courses): Junior Cybersecurity Analyst Career Path Exam
- Exam (At End of Courses): Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)
- Exam Opportunity (Fall): CompTIA A+ Part 2
- Exam Opportunity (Spring): CompTIA Network+
Year One Course Descriptions
Cisco Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer
This short on-ramp course introduces Cisco Packet Tracer, an innovative network simulation and visualization tool. Teaches how to download Cisco Packet Tracer, navigate the simulation environment, and practice building a network using everyday examples.
Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity
This course explores cyber trends, threats, and staying safe in cyberspace, and protecting personal and company data.
Cisco Computer Hardware Basics
This course teaches the fundamentals of computers and mobile devices by covering the basic concepts and skills needed to install components to build, repair, or upgrade personal computers.
Cisco Operating System Basics
This course teaches the fundamentals of operating systems by covering the basic concepts and skills needed to explain the purpose and characteristics of operating systems, implement basic operating system security, and explain how to configure mobile device network connectivity.
Cisco IT Essentials
IT Essentials covers fundamental computer and career skills for entry-level IT jobs. Students apply skills and procedures to install, configure, and troubleshoot computers, mobile devices, and software.
Cisco Exploring IoT with Cisco Packet Tracer
This course teaches how to set up a smart home network using Cisco Packet Tracer, how to add IoT devices to a home network, and then connect, configure, and monitor them. Learners become more familiar with IoT devices and how they can be programmed. Learners will create their own IoT device and use it in a simulated smart home network.
Cisco Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation
The course provides learners with an engaging, exploratory view of the Internet of Things and highlights how Digital Transformation impacts organizations, businesses, governments, industries, and our daily lives.
Cisco Linux Unhatched
This course covers introductory back-end operating system knowledge by teaching basic installation and configuration of Linux and introducing the Linux command line.
TestOut IT Fundamentals Pro (Becoming Tech+)
Explore IT careers in a way that gives practical skills and insights into what various professionals do on the job.
TestOut PC Pro
Develops job-ready entry-level IT support helpdesk skills to prepare for advanced courses and certification.
Exam: CompTIA Tech+ (Coming September 2024)
Exam Code FC0-U71: CompTIA Tech+ is the cornerstone certification for those venturing into tech-related careers. It provides a wide spectrum of foundational tech knowledge and hands-on skills, helping you become confident and tech-savvy.
Exam: CompTIA A+ Part 1
Exam Code 220-1101: CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers into today’s digital world.
Year Two Course Descriptions
Cisco Exploring Networking with Cisco Packet Tracer
In this course, learners create and explore a small office network using Cisco Packet Tracer. Teach how to connect and configure devices in a network, including wireless devices, and how to manage and monitor a network.
Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity (Fall 2024 only)
This course explores cyber trends, threats, and staying safe in cyberspace, and protecting personal and company data.
Cisco Networking Basics
This course covers the foundation of networking and network devices, media, and protocols. The learner will observe data flowing through a network and basic device configuration to connect to networks.
Cisco Networking Devices and Initial Configuration
This course teaches intermediate knowledge and skills for networking by covering basic concepts and skills needed to build a home office network and a small office network.
Cisco Endpoint Security
This course covers how to assess the network, operating systems, and endpoints for vulnerabilities, and how to secure the network. It also covers skills to maintain integrity, confidentiality, and availability in the network and data.
Cisco Network Defense
This course covers different methods to monitor the network and how to evaluate security alerts. It delves into tools and techniques used to protect the network, including access control, firewalls, cloud security, and cryptography.
Cisco Cyber Threat Management
This course explores governance in cybersecurity and threat management. Learn to develop policies and ensure your organization complies with ethics standards and legal and regulatory frameworks.
TestOut Network Pro
Learn networking skills in an interactive, office environment for practice configuring and troubleshooting real-world challenges.
Exam: Junior Cybersecurity Analyst Career Path Exam
This exam tests your knowledge on content from the entire Cybersecurity Pathway and earns you a digital badge to verify your skills.
Exam: Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)
This exam validates your skills and knowledge of entry-level cybersecurity concepts and topics. These topics include security principles, network and endpoint security, vulnerability assessment and risk management, and incident handling.
Exam: CompTIA A+ Part 2
Exam Code 220-1102: CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers into today’s digital world.
Exam: CompTIA Network+
Exam code N10-009: CompTIA Network+ validates the core skills necessary to establish, maintain, troubleshoot and secure networks in any environment, preparing you for a rewarding career in networking and cybersecurity.
Additional Learning Opportunities
Raspberry Pi and Micro Bit programming projects; guest speakers; and field trips to college campuses and businesses.
| Item | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Formatives | 15% |
| Packet Tracer & Labs | 15% |
| Projects | 10% |
| Work Habits | 35% |
| Tests/Quiz | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
| Grade | Percentage |
|---|---|
| A | 93-100% |
| A- | 90-92% |
| B+ | 87-89% |
| B | 83-86% |
| B- | 80-82% |
| C+ | 77-79% |
| C | 73-76% |
| C- | 70-72% |
| D+ | 67-69% |
| D | 63-66% |
| D- | 60-62% |
| E | 59% or below |
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Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics Program Virtual Tour
Student Testimonials
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The following music was used for this media project:
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About Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics
1-2 year program
Offered AM and PM
Skills Students Leave With:
PC Support
Computer Safety
Networking
Security Awareness
Teamwork
Learn more about CSA - Cyber Opportunity Schools.