Cybersecurity: The Next Generation of Information Technology Careers
The Cybersecurity program offers a sequence of courses that focuses on foundational knowledge and skills in computer and network security, security vulnerabilities, attack mechanisms and techniques, intrusion detection and prevention, cryptographic systems, system hardening, risk identification, incidence response, penetration testing, key management, access control, and recovery. Students will have the opportunity to add meaningful experiences to their resume while in high school by gaining industry certifications in Information Technology Specialist – Python, Information Technology Specialist – Networking, Information Technology Specialist – Network Security and CompTIA IT Fundamentals.
Cybersecurity Courses and Descriptions
Foundations of Programming
In this 1st level honors level course students will explore careers in Information technology with a focus in Cybersecurity and programming. This course introduces concepts, techniques, and processes associated with computer programming and software development. Students will also be introduced to the many facets of computers and operating systems as they relate to the upper level cybersecurity courses. Topics covered include computer hardware and operating systems. Students will engage in hands on experiences in Windows and Linux operating systems. In addition, students will have the opportunity to gain industry certification in Information Technology Specialist (ITS) – Python.
What is Linux? Click for an explanation.
What is Cisco? Click for an explanation.
Computer & Network Security
The purpose of this course is to provide the foundations to students who want to master basic information security as is related to computers and networks. The course introduces the student to the basics of Windows and Linux operating system security, networking fundamentals and the basic tenets of cybersecurity. The students investigate network design and troubleshooting with the OSI and TCP/IP model through the Cisco Networking Academy as well as hands-on learning with industry standard tools such as Wireshark, Cisco Packet Tracer and VMWare virtualization.
Cybersecurity Essentials
Students start with learning the basics of information security, with initial focus on Microsoft Windows. After completing the ITS Network Security certification exam, students move on to learning about Linux based systems. They will work with Kali Linux, a security penetration focused Linux based operating system. In addition to case studies, student will engage in computer based labs covering topics on cryptography, wireless security and network traffic analysis. ITS
Operational Cybersecurity
Building on the course over the first three years, students delve deeper into information security looking at it from a business/enterprise perspective. They will work with both online virtual machines and simulations to configure all levels of network security. They will participate in at least one National Cyber league completion and in small groups conduct a network vulnerability assessment. Students achieving high scores will have the opportunity to take the CompTIA Security+ exam.
Program of Study
Click below for our complete suggested program of study.
Student Testimonial
Ashley Hernandez
Class of 2021
“The Cybersecurity Academy has opened my eyes to the world of technology and allowed me to understand how significant computer security is to our everyday lives. Not only has the academy taught me how to use tools that professionals use every day, but it has also allowed me to take precautions with devices that I would have never considered before the academy. While the cyber academy has given me a direction of what I want to pursue in life, it has also given me the chance to meet a wonderful group of people who share my interests and show me different perspectives of how computers function and communicate with each other.”
Take a Closer Look
Meet Our Teachers
Carlos Sowell
Advanced Information Technology, Computer and Network Security, and Cybersecurity Essentials
Wayne Wingate
Foundations of Programming, Operational Cybersecurity, and AP Computer Science Principles
Mr. Wingate spent 26 years on active duty in the Air Force. His last posting was as the Chief of Security for United States Strategic Command where he directed the Information, Physical, Industrial, and Personnel Security programs. After retiring, Mr. Wingate taught as an Adjunct Instructor for American Military University, ITT Technical College and Embry –Riddle Aeronautical University.
In addition to his Bachelor’s Degree from the Air Force Academy and Master’s Degree from Webster University, he maintains professional certifications as a Certified Information Security Systems Professional, Certified Ethical Hacker, and Certified Protection Professional.
For more information
Email Ms. Kelly, the Career Academy Program Specialist, [email protected]