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Printed on 4/12/2026

Cybersecurity Specialist

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10-151-2 Associate Degree (AAS) Part Time or Full Time 62 Credits Financial Aid Eligible Location*: Appleton or Online

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

Cybersecurity, including computer and information systems security, is a rapidly growing field. With a Cybersecurity Specialists degree, you’ll monitor and implement security measures to protect an organization’s computer network(s) and systems. You’ll learn how to ensure that appropriate security controls are in place to safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure, as well as, how to respond to computer security breaches and viruses. This program will also provide you with background and hands-on experience in fraud detection, technical reporting, risk assessment and server applications.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Technical Studies (47 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • IT Career Experience
    10-107-110
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10107110
    • Credits: 2.00

    Examines and identifies job-seeking, job-keeping and interviewing techniques, strategies for identifying and meeting external and internal customer needs as well as good listening skills and techniques for dealing with difficult customers. Also covers time management, team dynamics, continual improvement processes and global business practices.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • Student must complete 13 Semester Units of IT Coursework at the Post Secondary Level. Catalog Numbers must begin with 1015x or 10107.
  • Scripting with Python
    10-150-111
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150111
    • Credits: 3.00

    Provides a gentle introduction to scripting with the Python language for students without prior scripting or programming experience. The course will cover basics of the language, including data types, flow control, regular expressions, input/output and object oriented programming. Students will learn how to use Python to create scripts that manipulate data, automate system tasks, and automate information security.

  • Network Infrastructure 1
    10-150-116
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150116
    • Credits: 3.00

    Covers networking topics including the OSI model, local area and wide area networking. Also focuses on assigning network addresses and configuring network devices including Cisco routers and switches. Includes considerable hands-on learning activities and helps prepare learner for the Cisco CCNA exam.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150162 - Network Essentials

    • MATH 10804133 - Math & Logic
  • Operating Systems Security
    10-150-141
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10150141
    • Credits: 2.00

    Covers the basics of securing Microsoft Windows workstations and servers. Students start by identifying the risks and vulnerabilities associated with Windows and then utilize a variety of tools and techniques to decrease risks arising from these vulnerabilities. Includes considerable hands-on learning activities implementing operating system hardening, application security and incident management.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150155 - Linux Essentials

    • COMPUTER 10150156 - Windows Server
  • Ethical Hacking
    10-150-144
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150144
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces the techniques hackers use to discover vulnerabilities. Students will learn ways to tighten the network security to protect the exposed data from the discovered vulnerabilities. Focus is on penetration-testing tools and techniques that security testers and ethical hackers use to protect computer networks.

  • Linux
    10-150-147
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10150147
    • Credits: 2.00

    Covers introductory Linux topics including operating system basics, system installation, file system management, file system administration and basic commands. Considerable hands-on learning is included.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150155 - Linux Essentials
  • Linux Essentials
    10-150-155
    1Credit
    18
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 18
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 10150155
    • Credits: 1.00

    Covers Basic Linux topics including operating system basics, file management, graphic user interfaces and the command line interface.

  • Windows Server
    10-150-156
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150156
    • Credits: 3.00

    Covers Microsoft Windows Server administration including server hardware and software, Active Directory, file resources, printers, disk resources, Web resources, DNS and DHCP. Monitoring and troubleshooting server resources are also examined. Extensive hands-on activities are included.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10154110 - Enterprise Client
  • Server and Cloud Applications
    10-150-159
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150159
    • Credits: 3.00

    Covers advanced theories and practices including designing, maintaining, and supporting server applications.  Extensive hands-on activities are included demonstrating standalone technologies and integration of applications on-premises and in the cloud, including Active Directory and Entra ID Identity Management, Endpoint Management, Content Management systems, Mobile Device Management (MDM), Certificate Services, Email services and Microsoft 365 applications.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • COMPUTER 10150156 - Windows Server

    • Instructor Consent
  • Network Security
    10-150-160
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150160
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces students to intrusion detection tools, network security design, various types of network firewalls, and the basics of VPN configuration. A solid understanding of LAN/WAN fundamentals is required for this course.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • COMPUTER 10150116 - Network Infrastructure 1

    • Instructor Consent
  • IT Security Fundamentals
    10-150-161
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10150161
    • Credits: 2.00

    Examines the basics of information security, including access control and organizational security policies. This course will include the process of securing user workstations, laptops and mobile devices.

  • Network Essentials
    10-150-162
    2Credit
    54
    54

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10150162
    • Credits: 2.00

    Provides an introduction to networking theory and technologies, including the basics of communication, common protocols, the OSI model, network topologies, local network media, network devices, network security and networking tools. Includes more in-depth study of the components of TCP/IP, Ethernet, and wireless networks. Involves considerable time developing troubleshooting skills.

  • Security Monitoring and Operations
    10-150-168
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10150168
    • Credits: 3.00

    Examine the systems put in place to analyze threats and detect anomalies that could indicate a security incident. The challenge companies face is timely detection when they are victimized by an attack. Students will become familiar with policies, procedures, and continuous monitoring programs that can be utilized to protect an organization.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150155 - Linux Essentials

    • COMPUTER 10150156 - Windows Server​

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is in progress in Security Risk Management (10-504-3) Program of Study
  • Risk and Incident Management
    10-151-101
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10151101
    • Credits: 3.00

    Examines standards-based, proven methodologies for assessing and managing risk. Selecting and implementing security controls that ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies and directives. Upon completion of a risk assessment, students will learn the phases of cybersecurity incident response in a way that limits damages, reduces recovery time and manages the overall cost of an incident.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150161 - IT Security Fundamentals
  • Cybersecurity Capstone
    10-151-102
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10151102
    • Credits: 3.00

    Evaluates skills and knowledge gained throughout the cybersecurity program. Students will identify security strategies, implement secure infrastructures, conduct security testing, analyze security data, mitigate risk and develop security documentation.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150167 - Risk Assessment OR COMPUTER 10151101 - Risk and Incident Management

    • COMPUTER 10150168 - Security Monitoring&Operations​
  • Advanced Ethical Hacking
    10-151-103
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10151103
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces the techniques security professionals use to discover flaws in online systems. In this course, students work on hands-on, team-based scenarios where they assume the role of a red team, actively finding and analyzing potential vulnerabilities in various systems. Students will learn how to identify, exploit, and report weaknesses through real-world scenarios while proposing effective mitigation strategies to strengthen system defenses. Emphasizing collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, this course equips students with the technical skills and ethical grounding to tackle emerging cybersecurity threats.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • COMPUTER 10150167 - Risk Assessment OR COMPUTER 10151101 - Risk and Incident Management

    • COMPUTER 10150168 - Security Monitoring&Operations
  • Enterprise Client
    10-154-110
    3Credit
    72
    90

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10154110
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces students to the skills needed to support client PC Operating Systems. Through significant hands-on activities, learn how to configure, secure, utilize and troubleshoot client operating systems.

    ​Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • COMPUTER 10107187 - IT Career Exploration

    • CAREER 10890100 - College Success: On Course
  • Emerging Technologies and Industry Trends
    10-154-115
    2Credit
    54
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10154115
    • Credits: 2.00

    Explores the acquisition and support of various technologies and how they interact with businesses. Students will learn how organizations implement technology solutions, research potential solutions to real-world business problems, and present their findings.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • Student must complete 13 Semester Units of IT Coursework at the Post Secondary Level. Catalog Numbers must begin with 1015x or 10107.
  • College Success: On Course
    10-890-100
    1Credit
    18
    36

    • Instructional Hours: 18
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 10890100
    • Credits: 1.00

    On Course helps you learn a number of proven strategies for creating greater academic, professional and personal success. You will discover how to create a rich, fulfilling life by developing new beliefs and behaviors. College Success: On Course empowers you to make wise choices in your academic and personal life which leads to improved experiences and outcomes.

    General Studies (15 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Written Communication
    10-801-195
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801195
    • Credits: 3.00

    Develops writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. Also develops critical reading and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of written documents.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Oral/Interpersonal Comm
    10-801-196
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801196
    • Credits: 3.00

    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Mathematics and Logic
    10-804-133
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10804133
    • Credits: 3.00

    Students will apply problem solving techniques from discrete mathematics. Topics include symbolic logic, sets, algebra and base number systems.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • Accuplacer Arithmetic 263+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT Math 18+ OR Arithmetic Level 2 Coursework

    • MATH 10804113 - College Technical Math 1A

    • MATH 10804115 - College Technical Math 1

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Introduction to Ethics: Theory and App
    10-809-166
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809166
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Intro to Psychology
    10-809-198
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809198
    • Credits: 3.00

    This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognition, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, abnormal psychology, physiological factors, social influences, and development.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
×

Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

×

Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.