"Exciting News! We are developing a Baccalaureate Degree in Strategic Cyber Defense Analysis (GSCyber), set to launch in Fall 2026, pending approval. Stay tuned for more updates on this innovative program designed to equip students with cutting-edge skills in cybersecurity and defense."

 

"Grossmont College Cybersecurity and Networking Program has achieved NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) Program of Study (POS) Validation. This is Part 1 of the certification process.  See attached letter from NSA here.  Part 2 is in process for NSA CAE-CD Designation."

 

Grossmont Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) Goal

 

The goal of GCCD is to help students will be able to utilize networking hardware and operating systems software to implement secure infrastructure and Identify vulnerabilities. They will be provided with the latest networking hardware and operating system software, leading to industry-recognized certifications to help reduce the identified vulnerabilities. Students will also, complete network design, installation, maintenance, and management as well as fill network administration and systems administration job duties.

 

 

Grossmont College offers a variety of cybersecurity and networking options, including an associate's degree, two certificate of achievement programs, and a certificate of proficiency for focused skill development.

 

Associates Degree: Cybersecurity and Networking

An area of emphasis leading to an entry level position which specializes in networking and cyber defense. Students completing this sequence will be expected to assist network managers and cybersecurity managers in small, medium, and large-sized organizations.

 

Certificate of Achievement

The Certificate of Achievement program is a comprehensive program that prepares students for entry-level and mid-level cybersecurity and networking jobs. The program requires students to complete 25-26 units, including 16 units from the core Cybersecurity and Networking courses and at least 9-10 units from the elective options.

 

Core Cybersecurity and Networking Courses:

· Introduction to Linux (CSIS 113)

· Introduction to Cybersecurity (CSIS 121)

· Network + Certification (CSIS 125)

· Introduction to Python Programming (CSIS 250)

· Security + Certification (CSIS 263)

 

Elective Course Options:

· Business Communication (Business 128)

· Principles of Information Systems (CSIS 110)

· Computer Maintenance and A+ Certification (CSIS 120)

· Windows Server: Installing & Configuring (CSIS 130)

· Introduction to TCP/IP (CSIS 145)

· Linux System Administration (CSIS 213)

· Windows Server: Administering (CSIS 230)

· Ethical Cybersecurity Hacking (CSIS 264)

· Computer Forensics Fundamentals (CSIS 265)

 

Certificate of Proficiency:

The Certificate of Proficiency program is a shorter program that prepares students for entry-level cybersecurity and networking jobs. The program requires students to complete 12 units from the core Cybersecurity and Networking courses.

 

Core Cybersecurity and Networking Courses:

· Introduction to Linux (CSIS 113)

· Introduction to Cybersecurity (CSIS 121)

· Network + Certification (CSIS 125)

 

Which Program is Right for You?

If you are interested in a comprehensive cybersecurity and networking education, the Certificate of Achievement program is a good option. If you are looking for a shorter program that will prepare you for an entry-level job, the Certificate of Proficiency program is a good option.

 

Track Record

Grossmont College has a strong track record of graduating students in its Cybersecurity and Networking programs. Since 2019, hundreds students have graduated from the program.


  • Develop cybersecurity skills leading to an entry-level position that specializes in information technology positions.
  • Utilize networking hardware and operating systems software to implement secure infrastructure.
  • Use essential skills to plan, implement, administer, support, and secure network computer systems and associated users.
  • Configure routers and switches in multiprotocol internetworks using LAN and WAN interfaces, applying best practices to secure network resources.

Cyber Articulation Courses to City College's 4 year Bachelor of Science in Cyber Defense and Analysis.

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Cyber Articulation Courses to National University's 4 year Bachelor Degree.

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Note: There requirements are subject to change. Please see the National University’s Online General Catalog for official record requirements for the year you are admitted.

 

Associates Degree: Cybersecurity and Networking

 

An area of emphasis leading to an entry level position which specializes in networking and cyber defense. Students completing this sequence will be expected to assist network managers and cybersecurity managers in small, medium, and large-sized organizations.

 

Note: All courses must be completed with a letter grade "C" or higher.

 

Subject & Number

Title

Units

CSIS 113

Introduction to Linux           

3

CSIS 121

Introduction to Cybersecurity

3

CSIS 125

Network + Certification

3

CSIS 250

Introduction to Python Programming

4

CSIS 263

Security + Certification

3

     

 

Total

16

 

   

Note: Select at least NINE (9) units in any of the following courses:

Subject & Number

Title

Units

Business 128

Business Communication

3

CSIS 110

Principles of Information Systems

4

CSIS 120

Computer Maintenance and A+ Certification

3

CSIS 130

Windows Server: Installing & Configuring

2

CSIS 145

Introduction to TCP/IP

2

CSIS 213

Linux System Administration

3

CSIS 230

Windows Server: Administering

2

CSIS 264

Ethical Cybersecurity Hacking

3

CSIS 265

 Computer Forensics Fundamentals

3

     

 

Total

9-10

 

Total Required

25-26

 

Plus General Education and Elective Requirements

 

 

Certificate of Achievement

Any student who chooses to complete only the courses required for the above major qualifies for a Certificate of Achievement in Cybersecurity and Networking. An official request must be filed with the Admissions and Records Office prior to the deadline as stated in the Academic Calendar.

 

Click below to download the Handout:

Cybersecurity and Networking

 

Certificate of Proficiency

Certificates of Proficiency are designed for the student who needs to be prepared to enter an entry-level job. A department-issued certificate may be awarded upon successful completion of a prescribed course of study. This certificate will not appear on a student’s transcript.

 

Cybersecurity and Network Technician 

This certificate prepares a student with the basic skills to enter a position in industry as a Cybersecurity and Network Technician.  The skills to be gained with this certificate include familiarity with the Linux operating system, computer networks, network security, and ethical hacking or computer forensics. 

 

Subject & Number Title Units
 CSIS 113 Introduction to Linux  3
 CSIS 121 Introduction to Cybersecurity   3
 CSIS 125 Network + Certification 3
CSIS 263 Security + Certification   3
     
  Total 12

Contact Information:

 

CSIS Dept. Chair Hau Nguyen

hau.nguyen@gcccd.edu

 

CSIS faculty:

phillip.bell@gcccd.edu

 

For events in Cybersecurity please click here.