Cybersecurity is more important than ever, with government and private sector networks being exploited at an unprecedented scale. As these threats grow, the cyber workforce needs to understand and protect the critical components upon which the economy, government, and national security are built.
This Cybersecurity Certificate Program provides students a deeper understanding of cyber operations, laws, and policies.
The Cybersecurity Certificate is comprised of three required courses. The third course will help prepare students to sit for the Certified Information Systems Security Professions (CISSP) exam. A Penn State certificate will be awarded upon completion of all three courses.
Who should take this program?
This program will be beneficial to professionals working in the cyber realm who want to expand their knowledge, as well as to individuals interested in transitioning to a cyber-related position.
Students should have an understanding of the roles of the three branches of the United States government and basic constitutional concepts. Knowledge of networks is also helpful.
Course Descriptions
SWENG 5178: Principles of Cyber Law and Policy
Cyber activities and cyber operations are subject to a diverse array of U.S. federal laws, state laws, constitutional law, and regulatory policies, as well as international laws. This course explores fundamental concepts designed to help ensure that cyber operations are consistent with the laws and values of the society.
SWENG 5179: Foundations of Cyber Operations
With the increase of cyber attacks and exploitation, it is vital that the cyber workforce be able to combat attacks and exploitation. This course covers the foundational network security methods and concepts, protocols, cyber security principles, and knowledge of cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
SWENG 5180: Cyber Risk Management
This course provides students with a foundation in Cyber Risk Management, aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) RMF 800-37R2, and uses NIST SP800-53A, the assessment of security and privacy controls in information systems and organizations.
SWENG 5172: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Exam Preparation
This 30-hour course consists of face-to-face lecture, classroom discussion, and practice exams. At the end of the course, the instructor will review with students how to schedule the CISSP exam and provide links to practice tests for further preparation. (Optional fourth course)
Schedule and Registration
Title: Foundations of Cyber Operations
Dates: August 24–October 15, 2023
Times: 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom video conferencing
Cost: $1,295
Title: Principles of Cyber Law and Policy
Dates: October 19–December 7, 2023 (no class 11/23)
Times: 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom video conferencing
Cost: $1,295
Title: Cyber Risk Management
Dates: January 11–February 22, 2024
Times: 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom video conferencing
Cost: $1,295
Title: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Exam Prep
Dates: March 14–May 16, 2024
Times: 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Zoom video conferencing
Cost: $1,295
Register for Cyber Security Certificate Courses
For more information, email [email protected] or call 570-675-9253.