IT - Cybersecurity Specialist
63-credit Associate of Applied Science Degree
Program Code 10-151-2
Cybersecurity specialists monitor an organization's computer network and system, maintain system security and upgrade security measures to prevent computer viruses and cyberattacks. Learn to protect data confidentiality, integrity and availability while learning ways to implement security mechanisms. Emphasis is placed on vigilant security awareness, identifying network threats and deploying appropriate incident responses.
How Long It Will Take
Depending on course load, full-time students could complete this program in two and a half years.
Start Date
You can begin the traditional track in the fall or spring semester. You can begin the Blended Options track only in the fall semester.
How This Program Is Offered
The traditional track is offered on campus in a classroom/lab setting.
The Blended Options track is offered on campus in an accelerated format. The courses are organized into short, manageable segments (e.g. two classes meet each week for six or eight weeks) that meet during evening hours.
What Makes This Program Unique
- This program is offered in an evening flexible delivery format allowing students to attend in-person or remotely.
- IT associate degree program students take similar courses in the first two semesters, allowing for an easy transition to dual degrees.
- The BIT Connections Club allows members to expand IT skills through service learning projects, emerging technology exploration, aspects of global business technology and professional development opportunities.
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Earn two degrees in three years by combining IT - Cybersecurity Specialist with IT - Network Specialist. Learn more about this dual degree option.
Courses You'll Take
For the courses you’ll take, semester sequence, pathways and course descriptions, view the program catalog page.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired. Learn more about credit for prior learning.
How To Apply
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript.
- Complete placement assessment.
- Complete Computer Skills Assessment.
Still have questions? Visit the Admissions page or contact the Office of Admissions | 262.691.5200.
Deadlines To Know*
Fall 2020 Start (Traditional and Blended track)
- Submit application by August 3, 2020
- Complete checklist items by August 10, 2020
Spring 2020 Start (Traditional track only)
- Submit application by January 6, 2020
- Complete checklist items by January 13, 2020
* Application deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.
Financial Aid Eligibility
As a program student, you are eligible to receive:
- Financial aid loans
- Scholarships
- Other forms of assistance
Learn more about financial aid.
Cost
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.
Learn more about tuition and fees.
Career Salaries
$59,000 – $94,000 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.
Potential Careers
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
Transfer Options
Whether you're a high school student interested in earning college credits or a college student interested in transferring to a four-year university after graduation, our dual-enrollment and transfer-credit agreements will help you take the next step in your education and career.
High School Dual Credits
Dual enrollment offers high school juniors and seniors an opportunity to get a head start in high-demand fields through earning college credits. Learn about the credit options.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| UW-Milwaukee | BS Information Science & Technology | up to 63 |
| College | Program Name | Credit Awards |
|---|---|---|
| Cardinal Stritch | Any Bachelor Degree in the College of Business and Management | 60+ |
| Colorado State University-Global Campus | Any Bachelors Degree | up to 64, 10% tuition discount |
| Concordia University - Wisconsin | Any Bachelors | Up to 84 |
| Franklin University | Any Bachelors Degree | Junior Standing |
| Grand Canyon University | Any Bachelors | 10% tuition discount |
| Lakeland University | Any Bachelors Degree | Junior Standing |
| Mount Mary University | Bachelor Degree | Junior Standing |
| Ottawa University | Bachelor of Arts or Sciences | up to 80, and 35%+ tuition discount for WCTC grads |
| Purdue Global | Any Bachelors | credits vary, 20% tuition discount |
| UW-Green Bay | Organizational Leadership - Bachelor of Applied Studies | Block of 60 credits |
| UW-Stout | BS Career, Technical Education & Training (100% online) | up to 60 |
| UW-Stout | BS Information and Communication Technologies | up to 60 |
| UW-Stout | BS Management (100% online) | up to 60 |
| Wisconsin Lutheran College | BS Business Management and Leadership | 50-70 |
| Wisconsin Lutheran College | Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Leadership | 50-70 |
Transfer Tips
- Contact the school to which you'd like to transfer to make sure you understand its transfer policy.
- Talk to your WCTC program advisor about your intent to transfer so he/she can help you plan.
- If you're transferring within the University of Wisconsin (UW) System, contact your desired institution about its transfer policy and visit the UW System's transfer resource page.