Cybersecurity and Computer Networking (CKD)
AN OPTION OF COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
Type: Career, Degree (AS)
Open Admissions
Division: STEM and Business
The Networking option prepares students for employment in network support and security in a variety of work environments, including professional offices, small businesses, government, and large corporations. Students are prepared for positions that require the maintenance of network hardware and software as well as troubleshooting networks. Among the employment opportunities for graduates are supporting local-area network (LAN), wide-area network (WAN), Internet, intranet systems, and cybersecurity.
The following background is recommended for this program: algebra and computer literacy. Students without this background may need to take prerequisite course work prior to enrolling in some of the courses required in this program. Students are strongly urged to meet with their academic advisor on a semester basis to review the program, and discuss course selections for successful completion of the program.
If you have questions related to program admissions or applications, please contact info@northshore.edu or call 978-762-4188.
First Year
Fall
| CMP101 | Composition 1 | 3 |
| CPS130 | Computer Hardware | 3 |
| CPS218 | UNIX | 4 |
| CPS100 | Information Technology and Its Applications | 3 |
| MAT151 | Precalculus 1 | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 16 |
Spring
| CPS134 | Introduction to Computer Networks | 2 |
| CPS136 | Advanced Computer Networks | 4 |
| CPS138 | Internet Networking and Security | 4 |
| | |
| CPS122 | Operating Systems | 4 |
| OR | |
| CPS240 | Web Programming with PHP and MySQL | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 14 |
Second Year
Fall
| CPS251 | Cisco 1: Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials | 4 |
| CPS101 | Computer Science 1 (Java 1) | 4 |
| CPS170 | Database Theory and Applications | 4 |
| CPS250 | Advanced Network Security | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
Spring
| CPS102 | Computer Science 2 (Java 2) | 4 |
| CPS182 | Information Systems Disaster Recovery | 2 |
| CMP102-150 | Composition 2 Elective | 3 |
| CPS246 | Digital Forensics | 3 |
| CPS253 | Cisco 2: Network Security and Infrastructure | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
Requirement Notes
CPS100: May be fulfilled by challenge exam and 3 liberal arts elective credits.
Open Elective: This requirement is intended to further a student’s career goals. Please meet with an advisor to determine how to best fulfill this course requirement.
Program Note
Communication and Mathematics proficiency required to graduate.
See guided pathway sheets for advising information specific to your area of focus.
Total Credit Hours: 60
Program Student Learner Outcomes
- Apply basic mathematical knowledge and analytical skills to solve computer networking and cybersecurity problems.
- Communicate clearly and effectively using both verbal and written methods.
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills in solving computer networking and cybersecurity problems.
- Design and manage computer networks, analyze and solve computer networking and security issues.
- Configure and maintain different operating systems and computer networks with security.
Occupational Skills Required
- Oral communication skills
- Written and reading skills
- Comfortable using a computer and accessing information on the web
- Appreciation of basic mathematics to solve problems
- Physical ability to work on computer hardware and network equipment
Most Common Linked Occupation Title – Associate’s or Less
- Network Administrator and cybersecurity related IT jobs
Top Transfer Institutions
- Salem State University
- Northeastern University
- UMass Lowell