Cybersecurity
Start your career protecting networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. In San Jac’s Cybersecurity program, you’ll build the technical skills needed to identify vulnerabilities, respond to attacks, and secure digital infrastructure. Through hands-on labs and real-world scenarios, you’ll learn how organizations defend against hackers, malware, and other cyber risks.
Why Cybersecurity at San Jac?
Study at a recognized cybersecurity program
Prepare for cybersecurity certifications
Gain hands-on experience with security tools
Develop in-demand cybersecurity skills
Careers
Officers
Opportunities
Graduates who earn an AAS or BAT degree, or Certificate of Technology in CIT Cybersecurity can pursue the following careers:
- Cybersecurity analyst
- IT security consultant
- Penetration tester (ethical hacker)
- Risk management
- Cybersecurity incident responder
Locations
DEGREES & CERTIFICATES
Advanced Information Technology Cybersecurity Specialty, Occupational Certificate Online Option
Advance your career with this professional development course. You’ll learn how to secure computer networks while building on your knowledge of security basics, networks, and how organizations stay safe.
CompTIA Security Exam CE, Course Online Option
Cybersecurity, Bachelor of Applied Technology Online Option
In the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity program, you’ll learn hands-on skills like finding threats, managing security, and protecting systems. You’ll practice finding and stopping cyber threats using real-world simulations. You’ll also learn ethical hacking and cryptography. These skills help you understand the legal and ethical rules in cybersecurity.
This degree is also offered online.
Information Technology Cybersecurity Specialty, AAS Online Option
The Associate of Applied Science degree prepares you for a career in cybersecurity. Learn the basics of network security. Discover how to protect computer systems and data. Gain hands-on skills in securing operating systems. Learn to apply security solutions in today's IT environments. This degree is recognized by the Texas Skills Standards Council for integrating skill standards into the curriculum.
This degree is also offered online.
Information Technology Cybersecurity Specialty, Certificate of Technology Online Option
CAREER TRACKS
The content below shows a flowchart of the career tracks.
Sounds great, but how do I apply?
Your Questions Answered
San Jacinto College’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Cybersecurity is part of the college’s designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Defense (CAE-CD). This recognition is awarded by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security to schools that meet high standards in cybersecurity education.
This designation reflects San Jac’s commitment to strong cybersecurity training and helps prepare you with the knowledge and skills needed to protect digital systems and infrastructure.
You’ll learn how to protect computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Coursework covers the following:
- network security
- vulnerability assessment
- penetration testing
- incident response
- security operations
You’ll also strengthen your problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you work through real cybersecurity challenges.
Yes. The program includes labs and hands-on exercises that mimic real cybersecurity situations. You may also get experience working in a student Security Operations Center (SOC), where you can practice using professional security tools.
With a mix of coursework, SOC experience, and preparation for certifications, the
program makes sure you have the skills needed to start a career in cybersecurity and
succeed.
Yes. The program prepares you for certifications that employers look for in IT and cybersecurity jobs:
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CompTIA A+ – Covers core IT skills such as computer hardware, software, and troubleshooting. It builds a strong technical foundation that supports many cybersecurity careers.
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CompTIA Network+ – Focuses on networking fundamentals, including network infrastructure, protocols, and troubleshooting. This knowledge is essential for understanding how secure networks operate.
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CompTIA Security+ – A widely recognized cybersecurity certification. It covers topics such as network security, threats and vulnerabilities, cryptography, and identity management.
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CompTIA Cloud+ – Teaches the skills needed to manage and secure cloud-based systems. This includes cloud infrastructure, implementation, and maintenance.
- CompTIA PenTest+ – Focuses on penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. You’ll learn how to identify security weaknesses and simulate real-world cyberattacks to help strengthen system defenses.
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EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND) – Focuses on advanced network defense concepts, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and risk management.
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EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH) – Covers incident response and how to detect, manage, and recover from cybersecurity breaches.
As you gain experience, you may also pursue advanced certifications such as:
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ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – Focuses on auditing, controlling, and securing information systems within organizations.
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ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – An advanced certification that covers key cybersecurity skills. Topics include managing risks, building secure systems, and leading security teams.
These certifications can help demonstrate your skills and strengthen your resume as
you pursue cybersecurity roles.
Yes. You can continue your studies through San Jac’s Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity. This program builds on the associate degree and prepares you for more advanced roles
in the field.
The CompTIA Security+ Continuing Education (CE) course is a short professional development opportunity that helps you strengthen your cybersecurity skills. You’ll deepen your understanding of network security, threats and vulnerabilities, and organizational security practices.
You’ll also learn how to implement security controls that protect networks, systems, and data while reinforcing key cybersecurity concepts used by IT professionals.
This continuing education course is typically completed in one week and is taught over five days. It is designed for working professionals or students who want to expand their cybersecurity skills or maintain certification knowledge.
CompTIA certifications are widely recognized across the IT industry and are used to validate technical skills in areas such as security, networking, and system administration.
For questions related to the CompTIA Security+ course, please contact us at 281-459-7631 or email us at CPD-IT@sjcd.edu.
Support for your studies
center for cybersecurity
