Advanced Network Security Certificate

Program Description

The Advanced Network Security program prepares students for hands-on job positions such as network security administrator/engineer, and firewall administrator/engineer. Upon successful completion of the program, students are prepared to design, configure, monitor, manage, and troubleshoot next-generation firewalls to mitigate security threats and allow secure remote access to assets. They are able to design, implement, and manage identity and access management (IAM) mechanisms to protect assets. The program uses a hands-on approach and is designed around high-demand industry certifications from top security equipment vendors. It also helps prepare students to take several industry certifications such as Security+, Palo Alto Networks Certified Cybersecurity Associate (PCCSA), the Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA), and the Palo Alto Networks Certified Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE) industry certifications. Students are encouraged to take the exams to earn these certifications.

All courses in the Advanced Network Security Certificate transfer into the Cybersecurity A.A.S degree.

Program Outcomes

Graduates of the Advanced Network Security Certificate will be able to:

• Apply fundamental information technology concepts in order to manage files and effectively use a variety of information technology tools
• Configure local area networks using routers and switches
• Configure appropriate security architecture and tools to mitigate modern threats
• Configure and manage next-generation security firewalls
• Design and implement identity and access management (IAM) to protect assets.​​​​​​​

Required Courses (in expected order)

• INT-1010 Introduction to Information Technology Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)
• INT-1450 CCNA I - Introduction to Networking Credits: 4 (Program Requirement)
• INT-1700 Understanding Operating Systems Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)
• INT-1620 Security+ Preparation Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)
• INT-2670 Introduction to Firewalls Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)
• INT-2672 Advanced Network Access Control Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)
• INT-2673 Advanced Network Security Credits: 3 (Program Requirement)

Program Total: 22 Credits

Transferability

Credit earned at any public institution in the state shall be transferable to any other institution if the:

• Credit is from a college or university parallel course or program;
• Grades in the block of courses transferred average 2.00 or higher; and
• Acceptance of the credit is consistent with the policies of the receiving institution governing students following the  same program. Refer to ARTSYS at artweb.usmd.edu and the receiving institution’s catalog to select transferable courses.

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