Information Systems Security Professional

Program Description

Information systems security professionals protect an organization’s data and information infrastructure ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.  They develop and implement security measures, conduct risk assessments, provide guidance to employees on security best practices, and respond to cyber threats.  Information systems security professionals have a solid understanding of information security principles, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical personnel. If you are passionate about cybersecurity and have a keen eye for detail, an information systems security professional may be for you.

This program prepares students to take the certification exams for CompTIA® A+, Network+, and Security+, and ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and a career in information systems security. Students learn how to install, configure, and troubleshoot PCs, mobile devices and networks as well as the theory, principles, technologies, and operations of computer networking. Students will also learn how to implement and manage network security to protect against threats, risks, and attacks and perform vulnerability assessments and audits. In addition, students learn about operational security of an organization’s critical assets and how to design, implement, and manage security programs that assure the protection of information assets for organizations.

Successful candidates must be self-driven, an analytical thinker, and a problem solver as well as have exceptional planning and project management skills and can work both independently and as a team member. Job titles related to information systems security professional include chief information security officer, information security assurance analyst, information systems security manager, IT security engineer, senior IT security consultant and systems security officer.  This career requires continued training and education.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, overall employment of information security engineers is projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030 in Maryland. Projected annual job openings in Maryland are 1,640.  The salary range in Maryland is $78,220 - $172,060 with a median wage of $135,740.  Additional career information may be found in Career Coach: https://ccbcmd.lightcastcc.com/

Program Objectives

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

1. prepare to pass the certification exams for CompTIA® A+, Network+, and Security+, and ISC2 SSCP and CISSP;
2. perform the various responsibilities and tasks required for an information systems security professional;
3. discuss how to handle security and risk management;
4. implement security engineering;
5. determine identity and access management;
6. use access and test security controls, processes, and architectures;
7. discuss foundational security operations concepts; and
8. describe the importance of security in the software development lifecycle.

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

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

External Credential: Students will be prepared to sit for the CompTIA® A+, Network+, Security+, and ISC2 SSCP and CISSP exams.

Certifying Organization: 

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA®)

International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2)

SSCP candidates must have a minimum of one year cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). CISSP candidates must have a minimum of five years cumulative, full-time work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK. Candidates that do not have the required experience may become an Associate of ISC2 by passing the SSCP or CISSP exam and then have time to earn the required experience. To learn more about the requirements go to www.isc2.org/certifications

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.

Some CE Workforce Development Certificate Programs are eligible for early high school funding through Maryland Blueprint for qualifying BCPS high school students.  Please check with your School Counseling Office to determine your eligibility for the BCPS Tuition Benefit Program. 

Program Length

Approximately 76 weeks

Program Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Strong computer skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Access to the Internet to complete assignments

Computer Requirements for SSCP and CISSP courses:

• PC - Windows 10 or later or Mac - macOS 10.6 or later. Mac users are encouraged to have access to a Windows environment on their device.
• Browser - latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

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 and demonstrated portfolio and/or prior occupational learning. Maximum number of program hours that may be earned from prior learning and recent certification training: 175

Program Course Sequence

Additional Information

Related Courses or Programs:
Cloud+; CCNA; Linux+; PenTest+; Introduction to Firewalls; and Introduction to Intrusion, Detection/Prevention Systems

Additional Expenses:
2 CompTIA® A+ Certification exams - $506 ($253 per exam); CompTIA® Network+ Certification exam = $369; CompTIA® Security+ Certification exam = $369, SSCP Certification exam = $249, CISSP Certification exam = $749.

Program Contact Information

Coordinator: Katherine Walton | kwalton3@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-4890| Catonsville BESS 100 L

Administrative Assistant: Sarah Faul | sfaul@ccbcmd.edu | 443-840-3677| Catonsville BESS 100