Proposal Information
Program & Award Information
The Associate of Science in Cybersecurity follows the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and the Department of Defense (DoD) Cyber Workforce Framework (DCWF) with the common goal of developing knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to perform foundational cybersecurity tasks. The curriculum includes hands-on experience in virtual environments that simulate real-world scenarios in the domains of security provisions, operations and maintenance, governance, protection and defense, analysis, collection, and investigation.
This pathway includes preparation for industry-recognized certifications geared towards preparing students for a successful career in cybersecurity workforce roles that have an impact on an organization’s ability to protect its data, systems, and operations.
The Computer Information Systems department requires students to complete all requirements for the degree within five years.
General Education
In addition to the courses listed, students must complete one of the following general education options:
- The LOCAL/DISTRICT pattern of General Education coursework allows students to receive an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science degree from San Diego City College.
- The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC). Cal-GETC is accepted by all California State University (CSU) campuses and most University of California (UC) campuses and majors. It is also accepted by some private/independent or out-of-state universities.
It is strongly recommended that students consult with a counselor to determine which general education option is most appropriate for their individual educational goals.
San Diego City College’s Computer Information Systems (CIS) program offers various areas of study:
- The Computer and Information Sciences (CISC) area of study introduces students to essentials of computer programming and software, database, and game development. The associate degree and certificate curriculum prepares students for programming careers, as well as transfer into four-year programs. The goal is for students to exit with the fundamental skills needed to continue undergraduate education and to be successful in a chosen career.
- The Information, Network, and Web Technologies (INWT) area of study focuses on technical knowledge and decision-making capabilities regarding computer systems, network administration, and foundational cybersecurity. The associate degree and certificate curriculum prepares students for careers in information technology (IT) management, technical support, and systems security and administration, as well as transfer into four-year programs. Students of all backgrounds and skill levels train for relevance in today's workforce.
- The Cyber Defense and Analysis (CYDA) area of study develops advanced skills to interpret business needs, proactively defend computer networks, identify and analyze threats, and maintain cybersecurity resilience. The baccalaureate curriculum prepares students for careers in cyber-workforce operations.
Program Goals
- Be poised to enter professional positions in a cybersecurity related occupation or continue to a graduate study in cybersecurity or a related field of interest.
- Be informed, active individuals engaged in the global community, social justice advocacy, and the highest level of professional ethics.
- Pursue lifelong learning opportunities to improve and expand their technical and professional skills.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice, taking into account legal, ethical, diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility principles consistent with the mission of the institution.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply security principles and practices to maintain operations in the presence of risks and threats.
Baccalaureate courses and programs generally require a high level of abstract thought (e.g., synthesis, analysis, creation). Career Technical Education (CTE) programs typically emphasize learning outcomes associated with the application of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to practices. Such professional programs typically include mapping student learning objectives to industry defined KSAs.
Careers in the cyber workforce or information security field include: cyber defense analyst, information security consultant, security administrator, security analyst, security engineer, security auditor, incident responder, penetration tester, vulnerability assessor, support technician, systems administrator, network administrator, and network specialist.