It is more important than ever to have the skills that employers are looking for. Our Cybersecurity and Networking program is designed to prepare you with the necessary skills to obtain an entry-level position in the growing fields of cybersecurity and networking.
Are you ready to begin, change, or accelerate your career?
One way to demonstrate your skills is to earn digital badges including recognized industry certifications that verify your skills and knowledge.
Cisco Networking Academy is one of the longest-running, purpose-driven learning and digital skills programs in the world.
You get top-notch, practical curriculum from Cisco, the worldwide leader in technology that powers the Internet.
Student Success Expectations
The Cybersecurity and Networking program is hands-on and technology-intensive. Students should enter the program with intermediate computer skills, including managing files and folders, installing software, navigating the internet, and performing basic troubleshooting.
Students should also be prepared to think critically, solve problems, research solutions independently, and work with operating systems, networking and cybersecurity tools, servers, cloud technologies, and virtual machines.
Students who need additional preparation are encouraged to complete introductory computer coursework or free skill-building resources available through SWIC before enrolling.
Hands-On Learning. Flexible Options. Industry-Recognized Skills.
Our Cybersecurity and Networking courses provide hands-on, interactive learning designed to prepare students for today鈥檚 technology careers.
- Free electronic curriculum and learning materials, with required software provided at no additional cost
- Interactive simulations, virtual labs, and hands-on activities
- Flexible learning options, including in-person and online
- Opportunities to earn digital badges
- Preparation for industry certifications, including Cisco CCNA, Cisco CyberOps Associate, Python PCEP, Linux Essentials, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Security+
- Courses covering networking, cybersecurity, Windows Server, digital forensics, incident response, ethical hacking, and cloud computing
Classes are available online or in person at Granite City and Belleville.
Networking Certificate
- Build your networking skills through four intensive 8-week Cisco Networking Academy courses (16 credits) designed to prepare you for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.
- Earn Cisco digital badges as you successfully complete coursework
- Gain hands-on networking knowledge and skills
- Complete CISC 161, CISC 162, CISC 163, and CISC 164
- Best suited for students with some IT/computer experience or a strong interest in technology or gaming
- Students should be prepared to dedicate at least 10 hours per week to coursework
Cybersecurity Specialist Certificate
Build the skills needed to protect networks, systems, and information from cybersecurity threats. This 35-credit certificate combines hands-on networking, cybersecurity, Windows Server, digital forensics, and network security coursework.
Students can prepare for industry certifications including Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Security+, Cisco CyberOps Associate, and Cisco DevNet Associate.
- Semester 1: Cybersecurity Essentials and Cisco Networking Essentials
- Semester 2: CyberOps Associate and Cisco Network Communication
- Semester 3: Cisco Switching and Routing, Windows Server I, and Digital Forensics
- Semester 4: Cisco Enterprise Networking, Network Security, and a Networking Elective
Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Networking degree
- Build the technical skills needed for careers in cybersecurity, networking, and IT while earning a 61-credit Associate in Applied Science degree.
- Earn digital badges and build foundational skills for Cisco CCNA and CompTIA certifications
- Combine hands-on technical courses with general education coursework
- Start in Fall, Spring, or Summer
- Students who already hold a degree from an accredited institution may qualify for an accelerated pathway with general education requirements fulfilled
- Continue toward a bachelor鈥檚 degree at SIU Carbondale, online or in person, through our articulation agreement
Career Opportunities
Prepare for careers such as:
- Network Technician
- Network Administrator
- Support Technician
- Configuration Technician
- Cybersecurity Specialist
Career salaries may range from $50,000 to $70,000+, depending on position, experience, certifications, and location.
for details about career opportunities, review the . Additional information is available from SWIC Career Services.
Contact Information
For more information email (preferred) the Program Coordinator, Carolin Brewer, carolin.brewer@swic.edu, or call 618-797-7374 and leave a detailed message.
For more information, submit the Contact form.