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Explorer Guide: Computer Science and Cybersecurity

This guide is for CGCC students considering a major and possible career paths.

FOCUS ON: Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Digital Forensics

  • COMPUTER SCIENCE: The study of computer science prepares an individual to enter a fast-growing, exciting and ever-changing profession. Using computer systems, students design and implement solutions to problems that exist in many career fields.
  • CYBERSECURITY: This major prepares students to work in the field of information security. Cybersecurity is about prevention, while digital forensics is fixing cybersecurity problems. The two fields are highly reliant on one another to maintain ongoing network security for organizations across numerous industries and sectors.

Introductory Courses

COMPUTER SCIENCE
CS 134 Computer and Informatic Science I

Provides an introduction to computers and informatics science. Topics include computer hardware, software, programming theories, operating systems, network technology, and the social impact of computers.

CYBERSECURITY
CS 126 Introduction to Cyberspace Security 

This course will introduce students to the fundamental principles of cyber security; security problems; and the relationship of cyber security to businesses, society, and people. Topics include basic cyber security concepts, networking concepts related to cyber security, intrusion detection, risk management, security policies, vulnerabilities analysis, legal issues, psychological and ethical issues of cyber security. Special topics include cyber warfare, malware, and protocol-based attacks.

Explore the full list of computer science and cybersecurity courses in the college catalog here

Your Options

Computer Science majors take courses in Computer and Informatics Science, Java Programming, Math, and select from numerous computer science and mathematics electives.

Cybersecurity/Digital Forensics majors take courses in Computer and Informatics Science, Networking, Criminal Justice, Accounting and Statistics.

IT HELPS TO BE ... 

Someone with strong math skills who enjoys problem-solving and attention to detail. Analytical thinking skills are also necessary. You should be eager to learn new technology and have the drive necessary to continually keep up-to-date with computer applications, software, and programming theory.

ARE YOU READY TO ...

  • Get an advanced degree and obtain special certifications?
  • Learn multiple programming languages?
  • Find related internships and/or part-time jobs to be competitive in the job market?
  • Supplement coursework with communications and/or technical writing courses?

Helpful Books

The following are available from the CGCC Library, located in the Main Building. Loans are 30 days. 

Career Path Resources

Professional Associations for Computer Science

Professional Associations for Cybersecurity