Networking and Cybersecurity (A.S.)
Associate in Science
Program Advisor: John Osthoff
413-236-4616 • josthoff@berkshirecc.edu
The Networking and Cybersecurity option of the Computer Information Systems degree program gives the student a technical understanding of computer systems and computer networking and cybersecurity. The program provides students with a hands-on experiential curriculum through a variety of computer courses. This program is designed for students planning either to enter the workforce or to transfer to a baccalaureate institution for further study. After completion of the program, students may become CISCO® Certified in both Networking and Cybersecurity. A related major at the baccalaureate level is computer science.
Degree: Associate in Science, Computer Information Systems. Concentration/Option/Track: Networking & Cybersecurity
Expected Outcomes
Graduates of this program should be able to:
- Apply computer and networking methods, procedures and principles, and use equipment and software for the purpose of installing, troubleshooting and maintaining LANs (local area networks) WANs, (wide area networks) and Wireless Networks;
- Apply fundamental concepts of programming languages and software development to solve a diverse array of problems and recognize these concepts in different systems;
- Work effectively with others to design, develop and troubleshoot enterprise level networks;
- Apply skills to mitigate, investigate and respond to cyberattacks;
- Communicate clearly, accurately and succinctly through written and verbal means;
- Apply technical concepts and principles to solve practical problems.
- Analyze and develop a plan to diagnose and solve technical networking problems;
- Act responsibly with integrity, self-confidence, and professionalism; and
- Apply critical thinking to evaluate alternative solutions in order to solve technical problems.
Graduation Requirements
To earn a degree in this program, a student must complete all program and general education credits, plus the following Additional Requirements.
Program Courses
General Education Courses
| COM- | Communication | 3 |
| ENG- | English Composition/Writing | 6 |
| MAT-123 | Elementary Statistics | 3 |
| MAT- | Mathematics | 3 |
| - | Behavioral & Social Science | 3 |
| - | Humanities & Fine Arts | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 21 |
MAT Mathematics : See footnote 1
Additional Requirements
| Core Competencies Portfolio |
4 items |
| FORUM |
4 units |
| Health/Fitness |
30 hours |
Minimum Cumulative Average
| Overall |
2.000 |
| All CIS Courses |
2.000 |
Suggested Pathway to Graduation
The following is a suggestion for completing this program in two years. The actual time needed to complete the program will vary according to each student’s individual needs.
First Semester
| CIS-102 | Fundamental Computer Literacy | 4 |
| CIS-124 | C++ Programming I | 4 |
| CIS-110 | IT Essentials | 4 |
| ENG- | English Composition/Writing | 3 |
| MAT- | Mathematics | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18 |
Second Semester
| CIS-125 | C++ Programming II | 4 |
| CIS-180 | Introduction to Networks | 4 |
| CIS-181 | Switching, Routing, & Wireless Essentials | 4 |
| ENG- | English Composition/Writing | 3 |
| - | Humanities & Fine Arts | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 18 |
Third Semester
| CIS-155 | Web Development | 3 |
| CIS-231 | Computer Science I with Java | 4 |
| CIS-218 | Enterprise Networking, Security & Automation | 4 |
| CIS-222 | Introduction to Cybersecurity | 4 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 15 |
Fourth Semester
| CIS-242 | Cybersecurity Operations | 4 |
| - | Free Elective | 1 |
| COM- | Communication | 3 |
| MAT-123 | Elementary Statistics | 3 |
| - | Behavioral & Social Science | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours: | 14 |
Footnotes
- MAT requires MAT-102 or higher to meet program requirements.
Note
A minimum of three CIS courses must be taken in the five years prior to graduation.