Information Technology – Systems Security (Cybersecurity)
The IT Systems Security program at ACC prepares individuals for employment in the exciting field of cybersecurity and networking. Students will learn about Windows® and Linux system administration, Cisco® Routing & Switching, cyber exploits and methods of mitigation, and technology crimes and law. Concrete skills such as router and switch configuration, device hardening, cybercrime investigation techniques, and security policy design are emphasized.
Alamance Community College is an authorized Cisco Networking Academy institution. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Networking Academy students worldwide gain the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) skills needed to build, design, and maintain secure and reliable networks. These students are both improving their career trajectories and also filling the global demand for ICT professionals. The IT Systems Security degree combines NetAcad courseware with Linux and Cyber Crime curricula to prepare students for today’s security challenges.
Course work includes design, installation, configuration, and management of network infrastructure technologies and network operating systems. Emphasis is placed on the implementation and management of network software and the implementation and management of hardware such as switches and routers.
Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as security analysts, cyber threat responders, local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians.
Students completing this program will be prepared for multiple industry certification exams including:
- Cisco CCNA
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Linux+
- LPIC
- ITS-Information Technology Specialist (e.g. Cybersecurity, Database, Networking, Python)*
- MOS (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)*
*MOS and ITS exams are free for ACC students
The MTA exam program has been discontinued by Certiport.
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program should be able to:
- Develop an information technology security policy for an organization
- Use a network simulation tool (e.g. PacketTracer) to prototype and troubleshoot a network topology
- Develop and execute a Linux shell script to automate an administrative task
- Review system logs after a documented event in order to determine the compromised host and identify any malicious or corrupted files
- Give a professional, technical presentation pertaining to cybersecurity
Articulation Agreements
To learn more about universities we have partnered with to allow ACC IT course credit to seamlessly be applied towards a Bachelors degree, visit our Articulation Agreements page.
print Systems Security • Semester by Semester
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACA-111 | College Student Success | 1 | 1 |
ACA-111 College Student Success PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the college's physical, academic, and social environment and promotes the personal development essential for success. Topics include campus facilities and resources; policies, procedures, and programs; study skills; and life management issues such as health, self-esteem, motivation, goal-setting, diversity, and communication. Upon completion, students should be able to function effectively within the college environment to meet their educational objectives. Register for this class |
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| CCT-110 | Introduction to Cyber Crime | 3 | 3 |
CCT-110 Introduction to Cyber Crime PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces and explains the various types of offenses that qualify as cyber crime activity. Emphasis is placed on identifying cyber crime activity and the response to these problems from both the private and public domains. Upon completion, students should be able to accurately describe and define cyber crime activities and select an appropriate response to deal with the problem. Register for this class |
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| CIS-110 | Introduction to Computers | 4 | 3 |
CIS-110 Introduction to Computers PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Register for this class |
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| CTI-110 | Web, Programming, and Database Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-110 Web, Programming, and Database Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table. Register for this class |
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| CTI-120 | Network and Security Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-120 Network and Security Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols. Register for this class |
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| Semester Total | 16 | 13 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCT-231 | Technology Crimes & Law | 3 | 3 |
CCT-231 Technology Crimes & Law PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course covers the applicable technological laws dealing with the regulation of cyber security and criminal activity. Topics include an examination of state, federal and international laws regarding cyber crime with an emphasis on both general and North Carolina statutes. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the elements of cyber crime activity and discuss the trends of evolving laws. Register for this class |
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| NET-125 | Introduction to Networks | 5 | 3 |
NET-125 Introduction to Networks PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and computer networks. Topics include introduction to the principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations. Upon completion, students should be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-120 | Linux/UNIX Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-120 Linux/UNIX Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course develops the necessary skills for students to develop both GUI and command line skills for using and customizing a Linux workstation. Topics include Linux file system and access permissions, GNOME Interface, VI editor, X Window System expression pattern matching, I/O redirection, network and printing utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to customize and use Linux systems for command line requirements and desktop productivity roles. Register for this class |
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| NOS-130 | Windows Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-130 Windows Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces operating system concepts for single-user systems. Topics include hardware management, file and memory management, system configuration/optimization, and utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to perform operating systems functions at the support level in a single-user environment. Register for this class |
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| Semester Total | 16 | 12 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEC-110 | Security Concepts | 0 | 3 |
SEC-110 Security Concepts PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the concepts and issues related to securing information systems and the development of policies to implement information security controls. Topics include the historical view of networking and security, security issues, trends, security resources, and the role of policy, people, and processes in information security. Upon completion, students should be able to identify information security risks, create an information security policy, and identify processes to implement and enforce policy. Register for this class |
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| Semester Total | 0 | 3 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CTS-115 | Information Systems Business Concepts | 3 | 3 |
CTS-115 Information Systems Business Concepts PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThe course introduces the role of IT in managing business processes and the need for business process and IT alignment. Emphasis is placed on industry need for understanding business challenges and developing/managing information systems to contribute to the decision making process based on these challenges. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the 'hybrid business manager' and the potential offered by new technology and systems. Register for this class |
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| NOS-230 | Windows Administration I | 4 | 3 |
NOS-230 Windows Administration I PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • Take NOS-130This course covers the installation and configuration of a Windows Server operating system. Emphasis is placed on the basic configuration of core network services, Active Directory and group policies. Upon completion, students should be able to install and configure a Windows Server operating system. Register for this class |
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| Social/Behavioral Science Elective | 3 | 3 | |
| Semester Total | 10 | 9 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCT-289 | Capstone Project | 7 | 3 |
CCT-289 Capstone Project PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course provides experience in cyber crime investigations or technology security audits in either the public or private domain. Emphasis is placed on student involvement with businesses or agencies dealing with technology security issues or computer crime activities. Upon completion, students should be able to successfully analyze, retrieve erased evidence and testify in mock proceedings against these criminal entrepreneurs. Register for this class |
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| Choose one of the following | |||
ENG-115 Oral Communication PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • Take DRE-096This course introduces the basic principles of oral communication in both small group and public settings. Emphasis is placed on the components of the communication process, group decision-making, and public address. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the principles of effective oral communication in small group and public settings. Register for this class |
ENG-115 | Oral Communication | 3 | 3 |
ENG-114 Professional Research & Reporting PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • ENG 111This course, the second in a series of two, is designed to teach professional communication skills. Emphasis is placed on research, listening, critical reading and thinking, analysis, interpretation, and design used in oral and written presentations. Upon completion, students should be able to work individually and collaboratively to produce well-designed business and professional written and oral presentations. Register for this class |
ENG-114 | Professional Research & Reporting | 3 | 3 |
COM-231 Public Speaking PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • RED-070 or DRE-096This course provides instruction and experience in preparation and delivery of speeches within a public setting and group discussion. Emphasis is placed on research, preparation, delivery, and evaluation of informative, persuasive, and special occasion public speaking. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare and deliver well-organized speeches and participate in group discussion with appropriate audiovisual support. Register for this class |
COM-231 | Public Speaking | 3 | 3 |
| SEC-160 | Security Administration I | 4 | 3 |
SEC-160 Security Administration I PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course provides an overview of security administration and fundamentals of designing security architectures. Topics include networking technologies, TCP/IP concepts, protocols, network traffic analysis, monitoring, and security best practices. Upon completion, students should be able to identify normal network traffic using network analysis tools and design basic security defenses. Register for this class |
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| Humanities/Fine Arts Elective | 3 | 3 | |
| Semester Total | 17 | 12 | |
| TOTAL CREDITS | 49 | |||
print Systems Security • Semester by Semester
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACA-111 | College Student Success | 1 | 1 |
ACA-111 College Student Success PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the college's physical, academic, and social environment and promotes the personal development essential for success. Topics include campus facilities and resources; policies, procedures, and programs; study skills; and life management issues such as health, self-esteem, motivation, goal-setting, diversity, and communication. Upon completion, students should be able to function effectively within the college environment to meet their educational objectives. Register for this class |
|||
| CIS-110 | Introduction to Computers | 4 | 3 |
CIS-110 Introduction to Computers PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Register for this class |
|||
| CTI-110 | Web, Programming, and Database Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-110 Web, Programming, and Database Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table. Register for this class |
|||
| CTI-120 | Network and Security Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-120 Network and Security Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols. Register for this class |
|||
| CCT-110 | Introduction to Cyber Crime | 3 | 3 |
CCT-110 Introduction to Cyber Crime PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces and explains the various types of offenses that qualify as cyber crime activity. Emphasis is placed on identifying cyber crime activity and the response to these problems from both the private and public domains. Upon completion, students should be able to accurately describe and define cyber crime activities and select an appropriate response to deal with the problem. Register for this class |
|||
| Semester Total | 16 | 13 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| NET-125 | Introduction to Networks | 5 | 3 |
NET-125 Introduction to Networks PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and computer networks. Topics include introduction to the principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations. Upon completion, students should be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-120 | Linux/UNIX Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-120 Linux/UNIX Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course develops the necessary skills for students to develop both GUI and command line skills for using and customizing a Linux workstation. Topics include Linux file system and access permissions, GNOME Interface, VI editor, X Window System expression pattern matching, I/O redirection, network and printing utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to customize and use Linux systems for command line requirements and desktop productivity roles. Register for this class |
|||
| CCT-231 | Technology Crimes & Law | 3 | 3 |
CCT-231 Technology Crimes & Law PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course covers the applicable technological laws dealing with the regulation of cyber security and criminal activity. Topics include an examination of state, federal and international laws regarding cyber crime with an emphasis on both general and North Carolina statutes. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the elements of cyber crime activity and discuss the trends of evolving laws. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-130 | Windows Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-130 Windows Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces operating system concepts for single-user systems. Topics include hardware management, file and memory management, system configuration/optimization, and utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to perform operating systems functions at the support level in a single-user environment. Register for this class |
|||
| Semester Total | 16 | 12 | |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester Total | 0 | 0 |
| Course Number |
Course Title |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOS-230 | Windows Administration I | 4 | 3 |
NOS-230 Windows Administration I PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • Take NOS-130This course covers the installation and configuration of a Windows Server operating system. Emphasis is placed on the basic configuration of core network services, Active Directory and group policies. Upon completion, students should be able to install and configure a Windows Server operating system. Register for this class |
|||
| SEC-110 | Security Concepts | 4 | 3 |
SEC-110 Security Concepts PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the concepts and issues related to securing information systems and the development of policies to implement information security controls. Topics include the historical view of networking and security, security issues, trends, security resources, and the role of policy, people, and processes in information security. Upon completion, students should be able to identify information security risks, create an information security policy, and identify processes to implement and enforce policy. Register for this class |
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| Semester Total | 8 | 6 | |
| TOTAL CREDITS | 31 | |||
printCybersecurity Certificate
Course and Hour Requirements| Course Number |
Course TITLE |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCT-231 | Technology Crimes & Law | 3 | 3 |
CCT-231 Technology Crimes & Law PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course covers the applicable technological laws dealing with the regulation of cyber security and criminal activity. Topics include an examination of state, federal and international laws regarding cyber crime with an emphasis on both general and North Carolina statutes. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the elements of cyber crime activity and discuss the trends of evolving laws. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-120 | Linux/UNIX Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-120 Linux/UNIX Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course develops the necessary skills for students to develop both GUI and command line skills for using and customizing a Linux workstation. Topics include Linux file system and access permissions, GNOME Interface, VI editor, X Window System expression pattern matching, I/O redirection, network and printing utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to customize and use Linux systems for command line requirements and desktop productivity roles. Register for this class |
|||
| SEC-110 | Security Concepts | 4 | 3 |
SEC-110 Security Concepts PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the concepts and issues related to securing information systems and the development of policies to implement information security controls. Topics include the historical view of networking and security, security issues, trends, security resources, and the role of policy, people, and processes in information security. Upon completion, students should be able to identify information security risks, create an information security policy, and identify processes to implement and enforce policy. Register for this class |
|||
| SEC-160 | Security Administration I | 4 | 3 |
SEC-160 Security Administration I PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course provides an overview of security administration and fundamentals of designing security architectures. Topics include networking technologies, TCP/IP concepts, protocols, network traffic analysis, monitoring, and security best practices. Upon completion, students should be able to identify normal network traffic using network analysis tools and design basic security defenses. Register for this class |
|||
| Semester Total | 15 | 12 | |
printEntry Network Technician Certificate
| Course Number |
Course TITLE |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIS-110 | Introduction to Computers | 4 | 3 |
CIS-110 Introduction to Computers PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Register for this class |
|||
| NET-125 | Introduction to Networks | 5 | 3 |
NET-125 Introduction to Networks PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the architecture, structure, functions, components, and models of the Internet and computer networks. Topics include introduction to the principles of IP addressing and fundamentals of Ethernet concepts, media, and operations. Upon completion, students should be able to build simple LANs, perform basic configurations for routers and switches, and implement IP addressing schemes. Register for this class |
|||
| SEC-110 | Security Concepts | 4 | 3 |
SEC-110 Security Concepts PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces the concepts and issues related to securing information systems and the development of policies to implement information security controls. Topics include the historical view of networking and security, security issues, trends, security resources, and the role of policy, people, and processes in information security. Upon completion, students should be able to identify information security risks, create an information security policy, and identify processes to implement and enforce policy. Register for this class |
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| Semester Total | 13 | 9 | |
printLinux/Unix Certificate
| Course Number |
Course TITLE |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIS-110 | Introduction to Computers | 4 | 3 |
CIS-110 Introduction to Computers PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Register for this class |
|||
| CTI-120 | Network and Security Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-120 Network and Security Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-120 | Linux/UNIX Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-120 Linux/UNIX Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course develops the necessary skills for students to develop both GUI and command line skills for using and customizing a Linux workstation. Topics include Linux file system and access permissions, GNOME Interface, VI editor, X Window System expression pattern matching, I/O redirection, network and printing utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to customize and use Linux systems for command line requirements and desktop productivity roles. Register for this class |
|||
| Semester Total | 12 | 9 | |
printWindows Certificate
| Course Number |
Course TITLE |
contact hours |
Credit hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| CIS-110 | Introduction to Computers | 4 | 3 |
CIS-110 Introduction to Computers PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces computer concepts, including fundamental functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components, basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the role and function of computers and use the computer to solve problems. Register for this class |
|||
| CTI-120 | Network and Security Foundation | 4 | 3 |
CTI-120 Network and Security Foundation PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-130 | Windows Single User | 4 | 3 |
NOS-130 Windows Single User PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • NONEThis course introduces operating system concepts for single-user systems. Topics include hardware management, file and memory management, system configuration/optimization, and utilities. Upon completion, students should be able to perform operating systems functions at the support level in a single-user environment. Register for this class |
|||
| NOS-230 | Windows Administration I | 4 | 3 |
NOS-230 Windows Administration I PREREQUISITES and COREQUISITES • Take NOS-130This course covers the installation and configuration of a Windows Server operating system. Emphasis is placed on the basic configuration of core network services, Active Directory and group policies. Upon completion, students should be able to install and configure a Windows Server operating system. Register for this class |
|||
| Semester Total | 16 | 12 | |
Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians. Graduates may also be qualified to take certification examinations for various network industry certifications, depending on their local program.