Cybersecurity (SEC)
SEC 300 Introduction to Cybersecurity Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course covers the fundamental issues and principles of computer-and-network security through studying theory and through hands-on assignments and lab exercises. The course will look at the capabilities of modern cryptographic systems and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Students will learn how to secure a computer, or a network, by analyzing its security requirements and applying common techniques to enforce them. Prerequisite(s): CSC 274 and CSC 294.
SEC 335 Network and Endpoint Security I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall (odd-numbered years).
Course Description: This course will introduce students to system security in terms of securing software components, physical/software interfaces, and networks. Vulnerabilities of common network protocols, threats that exploit those vulnerabilities, and attack models will be discussed. Students will learn about the basics of software security, software vulnerabilities, and cloud administration. Students will learn the underlying security theory and will gain hands on experience through lab exercises. Prerequisite(s): SEC 300.
SEC 415 Data Security and Identity Management Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall (even-numbered years).
Course Description: This course will cover techniques used to protect data from unauthorized access or corruption, and techniques used to identify, authenticate, and authorize individuals or groups to access protected resources. Students will work with open-source tools for cryptography and identity management. Prerequisite(s): SEC 300.
SEC 425 Ethical Hacking Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring (odd-numbered years).
Course Description: This course will cover how to identify different vulnerabilities from an attacker's point of view, what they might do with these vulnerabilities, and what measures you can take to mitigate these risks. Students will gain practical skills through red-team exercises and penetration labs. Prerequisite(s): SEC 300.
SEC 435 Network and Endpoint Security II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring (even-numbered years).
Course Description: In this course, students will master their skills in securing an endpoint, which can be a computer or an IoT device, through hardening its software components, physical/software interfaces, and the networks and endpoints will be discussed together with the threats that exploit those vulnerabilities, the attach vectors for various hardware and software components, and countermeasures that thwart the attacks. Students will also learn about documenting for the purpose of securing computer systems and networks. Prerequisite(s): SEC 335.
SEC 445 Security Program Governance Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall (odd-numbered years).
Course Description: This course introduces the development and management of cybersecurity programs within organizations. Governance frameworks and regulations will be studied through development of policy, implementation of controls and audits, analysis of risks, and response to simulated incidents. Students will gain skill with management tools, analyze security concerns with employees and vendors, and implement communication strategies with a variety of stakeholders. Prerequisite(s): SEC 300.
SEC 455 Cyberlaw and Investigations Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall (even-numbered years).
Course Description: This course introduces the US and international laws on cybersecurity, including law related to privacy, data security, crime, and intellectual property. Students will also explore the implications of culture and international agreements on policy and critical infrastructure. Students will learn the essentials of computer investigations through the application of forensic tools. Prerequisite(s): SEC 300.
SEC 490 Cybersecurity Career Preparation Credits: 1
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: In this course students will begin applying their MWSU education towards building a career in Cybersecurity. Students will learn how to navigate a career path in IT, explore alternative career paths, and explore opportunities for continuing education and professional development. Students will develop application materials and attempt entrance, exit, and/or certification exams in preparation for graduation, applying to jobs, and applying to graduate schools. Prerequisite(s): Senior standing.