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Network Security Administration A.A.S.

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2025-2026 Edition

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60 Semester Credit Hours; Curriculum: 0148

The Network Security Administration degree program provides a foundation in network security and provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to obtain positions as cybersecurity analysts and technical security support personnel.

Note: Refer to IAI General Education Courses page for guidelines on General Education course selection.

Course List
Code Title Hours
General Education Requirements:
See the list of IAI General Education Courses for more information
Area A — Communications
EGL 101Composition I3
Select one of the following:3
EGL 102
Composition II
EGL 111
Introduction to Business and Technical Writing (recommended)
EGL 212
Technical Writing Applications
SPE 103
Effective Speech (recommended)
Area B — Mathematics
One course from Area B3
MAT 114
Applied Mathematics I (or higher)
Area C — Science
One course from a science discipline3
PHY 101
Applied Physics (recommended)
Area D — Social and Behavioral Sciences
One course from a social or behavioral science discipline 3
Area E — Humanities/Fine Arts
One course from a humanities or fine arts discipline3
Area F — Global Studies 1
One course that satisfies Global Studies requirement0-3
GBS 101
Introduction to Global Business (recommended)
Area G — U.S. Diversity Studies 2
One course that satisfies U.S. Diversity Studies requirement0-3
Total Hours18
1

Students may take a Global Studies course that satisfies both Area F and another Area requirement.

2

Students may take a U.S. Diversity Studies course that satisfies both Area G and another Area requirement.

Course List
Code Title Hours
Major Requirements
CIS 101Introduction to Computer Information Systems3
or CIS 103 Computer Software and Concepts
CNS 105Networking Essentials3
CNS 110Windows Client Desktop 13
CNS 170Principles of Information Security3
CNS 172Network Defense and Countermeasures3
CNS 173Cybersecurity Operations Analysis3
CNS 174Introduction to Computer Forensics3
CNS 176Network Security3
CNS 178Ethical Hacking3
CNS/CIS 218Linux Essentials3
CSC 157Python Computer Science I3
ELT 130PC Hardware and Maintenance Concepts3
Electives: Select two of the following:6
CNS/CIS 228
Linux I
CNS/CIS 238
Linux II
or any CSC or ELT courses not taken previously
Total Hours42

Due to rapid changes in information technology, we are frequently updating our certificate and degree programs to better prepare you for the job market. Please consult the CNS department chair for help with your pathway.

Note: Students can obtain credit for prior learning through evaluation by Oakton faculty for any of the third-party IT certifications.

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate competency in using basic computer hardware and operating systems.
  2. Demonstrate basic understanding of network security.
  3. List basic steps for hardening computers.
  4. Utilize Linux command tools.
  5. Assess technical vulnerabilities, implement cybersecurity and information assurance best practices.
  6. Discuss defense mechanisms in complex IT infrastructure.
  7. Present conclusions effectively, orally and in writing.
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