Cybersecurity Investigations, AS

Overview

Watch the video and click on the tabs to learn more. Hint! Some tabs may be hidden. Click on the right green arrow to scroll.

Introduction to Cybersecurity Investigations

The most fundamental change in corporate security and law enforcement in recent years is the increase in cybercrime which is causing significant financial losses in the U.S. The number of crimes involving electronic data has been skyrocketing as our dependence on digital devices increases. Only trained digital forensics experts can search computers and computer devices for electronic evidence, perform digital investigations, recover lost data, track cyber intrusions and provide technical expertise in a way that preserves the integrity of the original digital material.

Normal investigation techniques cannot detect or extract bits of digital information that may remain after deletion. Cyber forensics examines files that are hidden, deleted or overwritten; recovers file fragments and other obfuscated data; detects cyber intrusions and embedded malicious code, and compiles evidence relating to the disclosure of personal and financial information.

A degree in Cybersecurity Investigations will place you into a pool of sought-after professionals in the digital forensics world and will provide you with a foundation in digital investigations allowing you to transfer to a 4-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Note: MCC’s Cybersecurity program incorporates hands-on training, Virtual Reality, Comp TIA certifications and expert instruction to prepare you for a growing, high-demand field. While enrolled you will study for (and take as part of your degree requirements) Comp TIA certification exams for A+, Network+ and Security+.

Degree & Certificate Options

This program offers one Associate of Science* degree:

• Cybersecurity Investigations (A.S.)

*To see other Computer Science degree programs, go to Computer Science and Innovation, Computer Science Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Cybersecurity and  Computer Science eXtended Reality (XR).

Program Goal

Cybersecurity Investigations provides foundation-level preparation and expertise common to all computer forensics and intrusion investigations. In the second year of the program, students will use real work tools to investigate cybercrime and network intrusions, including tools used in desktop forensics, mobile forensics and network intrusions.

Curriculum

Admissions Requirements

Applicants for admission to the Cybersecurity Investigations degree program must comply with general college admission requirements and must also provide a High School transcript or participate in an interview with an MCC Admissions Counselor.

There are no other specific program admissions requirements.

Incoming Transfer Policy

• Any computer course being considered for transfer cannot be more than 10 years old from the date of matriculation into the program.
• Any certifications being considered must be in good standing.

Additional Prior Learning Accommodations

Students who have trained for the following CompTIA certification exams and who have successfully obtained and hold current certifications do not need to repeat that training.

Students who wish to receive credit for certification exams should complete a “Credit for Experiential Learning” form which can be obtained from the Department Chairperson.

• Students with a current CompTIA A+ certificate are not required to take CIS102M and CIS103M
• Students with a current CompTIA Network + certificate are not required to take CIS116M
• Students with a current CompTIA Security + certificate are not required to take CYBD220M

Technical Standards

Most physical requirements necessary for this program can be accommodated with appropriate documentation.

Curriculum – Required Courses

Outcomes

Acquired Skills

After earning your Cybersecurity Investigations degree you will be able to:

• Demonstrate the concepts of a well-rounded education in cybercrime theory and application.
• Demonstrate knowledge of various methods of detecting, recovering and preventing cybercrime.
• Develop flexible data recovery plans relating to new and evolving data storage devices.
• Demonstrate the ability to detect, track and prevent cyber intrusions.
• Demonstrate the written communication skills necessary to produce well throughout conclusive reports to substantiate findings.
• Demonstrate the oral communication skills necessary to explain and possibly testify to the findings of a digital examination.
• Demonstrate a command of teamwork.
• Explain the concept and importance of ethics in cybersecurity investigations.
• Demonstrate a foundation for employment or transfer to a 4-year institution.
• Explain the necessity for a commitment to life-long learning.

Employment Opportunities

Students with this degree typically work in positions like:

• Computer Forensic Analyst
• Computer Technician
• Cybersecurity Investigator
• Data Recovery Specialist
• Intrusion Detection Specialist
• Mobile Device Data Recovery
• Network Security Specialist
• Systems Analyst

Potential Salary*

There is a wide range of jobs in the cybersecurity industry. See below for the national average annual salary range in central NH for a Security Management Specialist.

*Career Coach, 2024; Go to mccnh.lightcastcc.com for more.

Outgoing Transfer Opportunities

Students enrolled in this program can transfer to to schools like…

• Champlain College
• New England College
• Plymouth State University
• Rivier University
• University of New Hampshire
• …and many more