"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.
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 |
|
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:
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.
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
CSIS faculty: