Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity

Bachelor of Science

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Program Intro

As a computer information technology major, you’ll take courses that span knowledge areas including computational thinking, programming, networking technologies, operating systems, information assurance, web systems technology and database design and implementation.

Department of Computer Information Technology and Graphics

Based on a 2017 Global Information Security Workforce Study, the increase of annual workforce demand in cybersecurity in North America is 21 percent. Cybersecurity Ventures projects 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2021.

Our program is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence (CAE-4Y) in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS.

Curriculum Overview

Our program blends theory, applied research and experiential learning in all the vital aspects of IT, including networking, database administration, security and project management.

The cybersecurity concentration provides the specialized training you need for a career in this complex, in-demand field.

First year courses covers pervasive themes in IT, organization issues, and history of IT, IT and its related informing disciplines, application domains, computer math, and other IT topics.

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Sample Courses

ITS 10000 – Information Technology Fundamentals
ITS 13500 – Operating Systems Technologies
ITS 14000 – Introduction To Computer Algorithms And Logic

Your second year covers in-depth discussions of object-oriented programming and application development through integration.

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Sample Courses

ITS 24500 – Integrative Programming
ITS 26000 – Applied Database Technologies
ITS 27000 – Internetworking Technologies

Topics include confidentiality, integrity, authentication, non-repudiation, intrusion detection, physical security, and encryption. Extensive laboratory exercises are assigned.

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Sample Courses

ITS 35000 – Systems Assurance
ITS 35200 – Disaster Recovery And Planning
ITS 36000 – Distributed Application Architecture And Design

In your final year, you’ll cover defensive programming techniques, bounds analysis, error handling, advanced testing techniques, detailed code auditing, and software specification in a trusted assured environment.

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Sample Courses

ITS 45400 – Assured Systems Design And Implementation
ITS 47200 – Network Design And Implementation
ITS 49000 – Senior Project Undergraduate Research

Highlights

Cybersecurity workforce development is the key to assuring that the nation has adequate capacity to protect information and information systems.

This quickly growing field is both challenging and competitive. At PNW, we provide the tools you need to stand out, including US government-recognized curriculum and individualized attention from instructors.

Outcomes

Through classroom and lab interaction with experienced faculty, applied research and experiential learning, you’ll begin your professional work with the confidence and knowledge to be successful in a dynamic, competitive field.

Scholarships

There are a number of scholarships available for students in this program, including:

NSF CyberCorp SFS (Scholarship for Service)
Department of Defense Cyber Scholarship Program

Beyond the Classroom

We encourage you to get involved in activities like:

IT Club
Cyber-Security Club
Cyber-Incident Response Club

Career Paths

This degree prepares you for a number of careers in the field, including:

Software developer
Computer security specialist
Network and system administrator
Information technology architect

Employers

Our alumni work with some of the most innovative organizations across the region and around the world, including:

Community Healthcare System
Arcelor Mittal
NiSource
Cerner Corporation

Accreditation

Our Computer Information Technology programs accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET. This ensures that the program is independently reviewed and meets the quality expectation for that profession.

I've been in my position as a Cyber Security Analyst with Hyatt Hotels for 8 months now, having been offered the position a mere two days after graduation. I can honestly say that I've never been happier. Without Purdue Northwest, the staff and faculty in the College of Technology, and the CIT program, this would have not been possible.

Rebecca Scalchas