Information Security Analyst (Security+ Certification)

Program Description

Possible career opportunities for those with a CompTIA® Security+ certification include Information Security Analyst, Information Security Specialist, Network Security Analyst, Security Administrator, Security Analyst, and Systems Analyst.  Tasks associated with these positions include: develop plans to safeguard sensitive data, perform risk assessments, conduct penetration testing, encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls, research IT security trends, monitor current reports of computer viruses, and recommend security upgrades. This career requires continued training and education.

This program prepares students to take the CompTIA® Security+ exam, and for a career in computer network security. Gain an introduction to the Information Security field and explore how it relates to other IT areas and specialized security fields.  Students learn current security essentials; common security threats and ramifications; developing secure information security strategies; common attacks and how to safeguard against them; cryptography basics; physical security; disaster recovery; business continuity; the role of computer forensics in information security; and ethical behavior appropriate to security-related technologies.

Successful candidates must be self-motivated, independent learners, detail-oriented, and have strong analytical skills, the ability to take direction, and the ability to work both independently and as a team member.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 37% from 2020 to 2030 in Maryland. Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 1,000.  Additional career information may be found in Career Coach:   https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this Continuing Education Workforce Certificate, students will be able to:

1. prepare to pass the CompTIA Security+ certification exam;
2. perform the various responsibilities and tasks required for an information security analyst;
3. assess the security posture of an enterprise environment to recommend and implement appropriate security solutions;
4. monitor and secure hybrid environments, including cloud, mobile, and IoT;
5. operate with an awareness of applicable laws and policies, including principles of governance, risk, and compliance; and
6. identify, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents.

CCBC Pathway

Technology and Engineering Pathway - Pathways are designed to help you meet your academic and career goals by aligning related courses and programs.  Pathway students participate in a variety of activities that help explore career opportunities in their field of study.  You can meet with a CCBC advisor who help align — or realign — your educational plan with the Pathway that best supports you and your goals.

Program Credentials

Successful Completion:

CCBC Credential: Students will be awarded a Continuing Education Workforce Training Certificate, and will have access to a Continuing Education academic record (transcript).

External Credential: Students will be prepared to take the CompTIA® Security+ Certification Exam.

Certifying Organization: Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA®)

www.comptia.org

Financial Aid and Payment Options

We offer financial aid by packaging public and private funding options to those who qualify, in select Continuing Education courses and programs. Additional opportunities for financial support include partial payment options through Nelnet Business Solutions and tuition waivers for those who qualify. Resources outside of CCBC may also be available through employer/sponsor paid tuition,  the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), and your local office of workforce development.

Program Length

1 semester (14 - 16 weeks) not including prerequisites.

Course schedules vary each semester and may be offered face-to-face, online or hybrid (a combination of the two).

Program Requirements

High School Diploma or GED. Students must be computer literate, have strong computer skills, and have access to a computer and the Internet to complete assignments.

This program is not eligible for Baltimore County Public School Blueprint funding.

Network+ certification or strong networking background - students without this requirement must take the prerequisite course listed below.

Application Process

To apply, go to www.ccbcmd.edu/apply and complete the CCBC Continuing Education Workforce Certificate program application.  An email will then be sent with program information and any additional requirements necessary to apply for the program.

Open Entry – No screening or documentation required.

Prior Learning Assessment

This program has potential options for waiving select courses based on previous coursework or articulated coursework from an approved curriculum. Maximum number of program hours that may be earned from prior learning: 50

Program Course Sequence

Excellent attendance is required.

Prerequisite

Course Series

Additional Information

Additional Offerings:
Students pursuing certification in Information Security often enroll in the following computer network/security related classes: A+ Certification; Network+ Certification; Cisco Certification; Windows Server Certification; and VMware Certification.

Additional Expenses:
​CompTIA Security+ Certification exam = $392

Career Coach

Research your career interests, explore live job postings, take a career assessment, discover which companies in the Baltimore region are hiring, and more.  View a brief tutorial video on how to use Career Coach at https://youtu.be/C7KpznbPYfA.  Explore career and training opportunities at https://ccbcmd.emsicc.com/.

Program Contact Information

Program Coordinator: TBA

Administrative Assistant: Danielle Bennett | dbennett@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4925 | Catonsville| BESS | 100