NEW CYBERSECURITY & NETWORKING DEGREE
Beginning this Fall 2018 semester, we launched a new academic program leading to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Cybersecurity and Networking or a certificate under the same name.
The program, which will provide education and training in cybersecurity and networking, is a response to soaring demands for information technology (IT) specialists who can protect computer networks from viruses and other malware and various kinds of cyber attacks. A 2015 Verizon Data Breach Investigation Report found that more than 317 million pieces of malicious software were created in 2014, and one million new threats are released each day.
There remains a critical shortage of experts trained to protect computer systems from these global threats. There are approximately 350,000 current cybersecurity openings, according to CyberSeek, a project supported by the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE), a program of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S. Department of Commerce.
“This is the fastest growing segment of the rapidly growing IT sector, and the Bronx needs more training and degree programs in the field,” says BCC President Thomas A. Isekenegbe. “Because we are part of The City University of New York, Bronx Community College can provide this very high level, specialized training at comparatively affordable costs.”
Students who successfully complete the program can enter entry-level positions or pursue baccalaureate degrees at a four-year college. The certificate program will help those already in the field to move to the next rung in their career ladder. Students in the program will have the opportunity to earn industry certifications while enrolled in coursework. Additionally, those already in the field who hold industry certifications may be able to earn college credit at BCC. BCC is well-positioned to provide students with the high-quality education needed to advance in this field. The new program will be part of the College’s Department of Engineering, Physics and Technology, which has decades of experience in offering technology programs. BCC is partnering with Per Scholas, Inc., the Bronx-based non-profit that provides rigorous and tuition-free technology training and professional development to launch successful careers in technology for individuals from overlooked communities. This partnership will assist with student recruitment, industry certification, and career development.
The program’s development and implementation receives funding support from the Capital One Foundation.