Cybersecurity

CYBERSECURITY

In Fundamentals of CyberSecurity, the first course in the Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance program, students examine the core concepts and terminology of cybersecurity and information assurance, integrating the importance of cyber threats and vulnerabilities, computer and network architecture, network security, operating systems, operational security, cryptography, system security, incident handling, and other topics that prepare students for the Advanced Cyber Security course. Upon successful completion of this first course, students will be prepared to earn an entry-level career-ready certification.

COURSE OFFERINGS

PLTW COMPUTER SCIENCE ESSENTIALS

PLTW CSE introduces students to coding fundamentals through an approachable, block-based programming language where they will have early success in creating usable apps. As students sharpen their computational thinking skills, they will transition to programming environments that reinforce coding fundamentals by displaying block programming and text-based programming side-by-side. Finally, students learn the power of text-based programming as they are introduced to the Python programming language.

This course engages students in computational thinking practices and collaboration strategies, as well as industry standard tools authentic to how computer science professionals work. Students will learn about professional opportunities in computer science and how computing can be an integral part of all careers today. 

CYBERCURITY FUNDAMENTALS

This course introduces students to basic cybersecurity concepts and inspires interest in cybersecurity careers. The focus of instruction will include the implementation and monitoring of security on network and computer systems. Students will investigate strategies to identify and protect against security threats such as hackers, eavesdropping, and network attacks. The basics of cryptography and logical reasoning will be explored. Hands-on labs in the Cyber.org Range provide practice in the configuration and mitigation of system vulnerabilities. Each unit integrates current events and related cyber ethics and law.

Standards

PLTW CYBERSECURITY

PLTW Cybersecurity strongly connects to the National Cybersecurity Workforce Framework (also known as the NICE Framework or NCWF). Created by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), this framework identifies standards developed by numerous academic, industry, and government organizations. The framework objectives address topics that span K-12 education and guide learning progressions. PLTW Cybersecurity gives students a broad exposure to the many aspects of digital and information security while encouraging socially responsible choices and ethical behavior. It inspires algorithmic thinking, computational thinking, and especially, "outside-the-box" thinking. Students explore the many educational and career paths available to cybersecurity experts, as well as other careers that comprise the field of information security.

ADVANCED CYBERSECURITY

Advanced Cybersecurity develops a core foundation of essential skills, paving the way for a fulfilling career. Security+ is the most widely adopted ISO/ANSI-accredited early career cybersecurity certification on the market with hands-on, performance-based questions on the certification exam. These practical questions assess your ability to effectively solve problems in real-life situations and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers immediately. The course will enable students to understand and use the most recent advancements in cybersecurity technology, terms, techniques, and tools. By acquiring early career skills in the latest trends such as automation, zero trust, risk analysis, operational technology, and IoT, you will be well-equipped to excel in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

 

CERTIFICATIONS

• OSHA
• CodeHS Cyber Security Level 1
• Code HS Cyber Security Level 2