Purpose: The Associate of Applied Science degree will prepare students for careers as Cybersecurity technicians or analysts by providing them with the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities identified in the National Initiative on Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Workforce Framework 2.0 and the National Security Agency/Department of Homeland Security criteria for Centers of Academic Excellence (CAEs).

Occupational Objectives: Our alliances with business and industry partners create a pipeline between Germanna Community College and the workforce. The Cybersecurity Program is designed to facilitate students in their preparation for the pursuit of a baccalaureate degree at partnering four-year institutions or to enter directly into the workforce.

Admission Requirements: In addition to the admission requirements established for the College, entry into degree requires proficiency in English and Mathematics. All students will be required to demonstrate college readiness through assessment and/or transcript review and may be required to take placement tests in math, writing, and reading to aid in placing students in the appropriate courses. Students who do not meet required placement levels must enroll in developmental studies courses.

Program Requirements: The curriculum includes required technical courses in Cybersecurity and general education courses. Instruction includes theoretical concepts along with hands-on experience required to master the skills needed for successful preparation for employment. Emphasis in on ensuring the student is knowledgeable in operating systems, their vulnerabilities to attach and the skill needed to forensically discover and protect against such activities. Students are urged to consult with a curriculum advisor in planning the program and selecting areas for concentrated study. In parallel, students will explore legal topics in Cybersecurity to ensure proper, legally sound investigation and pursuit of justice. Technical/computer classes over five years old cannot be used as transfer credits. In addition, students who have been readmitted into the college must have computer courses that are over five years old re-evaluated.