IT - Cybersecurity Specialist

IT - Cybersecurity Specialist

Degree Type

63-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Code

10-151-2

Time to Degree

2 years

Start Date

August / January / June

How You'll Learn

Hybrid

Daytime

Evening

Cybersecurity specialists implement, maintain and audit the security of an organization’s computer networks and systems. Learn to protect data confidentiality, integrity and availability by implementing current real-world technology, processes and procedures. Emphasis is placed on vigilant security awareness, identifying security threats and implementing appropriate incident responses.

Deadlines To Know*

Fall 2024 Start

  • Application Opens: September 1, 2023
  • Application Deadline: August 5, 2024

Spring 2025 Start

  • Application Opens: April 1, 2024
  • Application Deadline: January 10, 2025

Summer 2024 Start

  • Application Opens: September 1, 2023
  • Application Deadline: June 3, 2024

* Submit all checklist items by the application deadline. Apply early; deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.

Tuition Costs

The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive. Explore current tuition and fees.

Additional Estimated Costs

  • Intel-based computer, with a current generation Intel i5 or equivalent AMD CPU
    • We advise against newer Apple devices with an Apple Silicon M1/M2 due to compatibility issues with virtual machines used for a majority of our Cybersecurity classes.
  • At least 16 GB of RAM
  • At least 512 GB SSD hard drive

How To Apply

  • Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
  • Submit a copy of one of the following to demonstrate your reading, writing and math skills:
      • High school GPA of 2.60 or above. Transcript must include completed coursework through the 11th grade.*
      • ACT, ACCUPLACER® or GED - 2014 Series (165 or higher).*
      • Prior college coursework may meet this requirement in whole or in part. Courses must be in the specific area(s), and you must have earned a grade of C or better (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the courses.*
      • If none of the above apply, sign up for the ACCUPLACER® placement test.

*Unofficial copies of these documents can be sent to admissions@wctc.edu.

Questions on the application process? Visit the Admissions page or contact an Enrollment Counselor.

 

Program Details

Questions? We'd love to help! Connect with our Enrollment team by filling out our online form or by email at enroll@wctc.edu.

If you are able to think on your feet, are a creative problem-solver and can work well in collaboration with others, a career in the cybersecurity field may be a good fit for you. Those working in cybersecurity are conscientious; they design, test, implement and protect security systems that are in place for a company’s computer system and networks.

  • Security Analyst
  • Security Engineer
  • Security Specialist
  • Security Administrator

This program is open to qualified high school applicants. Learn more >

$65,700 - $100,000+ annually

Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.

Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.

As a program student, you are eligible to receive:

  • Financial aid loans
  • Scholarships
  • Other forms of assistance

Learn more about financial aid.

What Makes This Program Unique?

1

Discover the latest cybersecurity news and resources from the WCTC Center for Cybersecurity Education.

2

IT associate degree program students take similar courses in the first two semesters, allowing for an easy transition to dual degrees.

3

Earn two degrees in three years by combining IT - Cybersecurity Specialist with IT - Network Specialist. Learn more about this dual degree option.

IT - Cybersecurity Specialist

CAE-CD Designation

WCTC is proud to be the first college in Wisconsin to earn - from the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, a joint program sponsored by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - the designation of National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity. Learn more >
Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity

Similar Programs

Program Pathway

Earn certificates, technical diplomas and/or industry credentials along this pathway. Start with some courses for entry-level employment, and continue with additional courses for higher wages and job advancement.

IT - Cybersecurity Specialist Pathway

Earn credit for prior learning for the college-level knowledge and skills that you've already acquired through advanced high school classes, previous ollege coursework, self-study, military training work or volunteer experience.

Grid 2
Associate Degree
  • IT - Cybersecurity Specialist (this program)

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

More Credit Opportunities

High School Dual Credit

Dual enrollment offers high school students an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields while earning college credits.

Learn More

Credit for Prior Learning

You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired through prior coursework, work experience and more.

Learn More

Transfer Opportunities After WCTC

WCTC has credit transfer agreements with many four-year institutions that allow our degree graduates to transfer credits into a baccalaureate program, often at junior-level standing.

College Program Name Credit Awards
Carroll UniversityBS Information Technologyup to 64
UW-MilwaukeeBA Computer Science60+
UW-WhitewaterBS Cybersecurity - Cyber Operations EmphasisFull Program - Block Transfer
UW-WhitewaterBS Computer ScienceFull Program - Block Transfer

There are currently no general college credit agreements for IT - Cybersecurity Specialist. For more information, contact your academic advisor.

 

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