network router with network cables plugged into it.

Network Security Associate

This Network Security Associate certificate provides students with essential computer security and information assurance concepts and skills to protect organizations and critical resources against security threats. Managing network security includes preserving information confidentiality, availability, and integrity through mitigating risks and preventing cyber attacks.  Network security professionals are tasked with performing network risk assessments, implementing safeguards that protect data and system integrity, implementing and maintaining system authentication systems, and creating perimeter protection systems. This program prepares graduates to become employed as network security technicians, network firewall technicians, VPN administrators, and remote security communication support specialists. 

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be prepared to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exams.

 

PATHWAYS TO OTHER PROGRAMS

This certificate is the third semester of our stackable Information & Communication Technology certificates. 

1) Computer Support Associate

2) Computer Technician

3) Network Security Associate

4) Cisco Network Associate

5) Cyber Security Specialist

 

Admission Requirements

Network Security Associate is a three-semester open enrollment program, meaning there are no criteria students must meet to be admitted. Students who are interested in enrolling in this program should complete our steps to enroll, which includes completing the free application for admission.

We encourage all prospective students to visit campus. We have several Explore Sandburg Open Houses throughout the year, or you can schedule a campus visit at your convenience.

Career and technical programs/courses are offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status in any group protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Title IX Coordinator Rick Eddy, 309.341.5234; Jacob Runge, 309.341.5262.

For additional information contact:
Welcome Center
309.345.3500
welcomecenter@sandburg.edu

Employment

Employment information coming soon. 

POTENTIAL CAREERS

Network Administrator
Information Security Analysts

Sample course schedule for the Network Security Associate program

Sample schedule for Network Security Associate certificate

 

Program format

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) courses are available online or in a multiple-modality format. Multiple-modality courses provide students with the option to sit in a traditional classroom, attend online, or attend a scheduled class using Microsoft Teams.

Class formats

Sandburg offers courses in a variety of formats to best fit the needs of our students. To determine the formats for specific courses, please refer to our course schedule.

Regardless of the course format, it is highly recommended that students have access to a reliable computer with broadband internet. All courses use online resources and require students to access course information through mySandburg. Accessing courses through a phone is discouraged. Both campuses have open computer labs for student use.

Click here for a list of the class formats.

 

ESTIMATED COSTS FOR THE NETWORK SECURITY ASSOCIATE PROGRAM

Network Security Associate certificate cost sheet


FINANCIAL AID

To apply for financial aid, visit our financial aid page for more information.

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy. Contact the local office to inquire if you qualify for financial support. 

  • Hancock County 550 N. Madison St., Carthage, IL 217.357.6749      
  • Warren/Henderson County 1025 S. 2nd St, Monmouth, IL 309.734.4745
  • Knox County Bondi Building, 311 E. Main, Suite 612, Galesburg, IL 309.343.9832               
  • McDonough County 440 N. Lafayette, Macomb, IL 309.837.1280


SCHOLARSHIPS

Thanks to our generous donors, Carl Sandburg College Foundation is able to award over $100,000 each year in scholarship dollars to Sandburg students. High school, adult learners, and returning students - everyone is eligible to apply. Apply between October 1 and March 15 for the upcoming year. We encourage all students to apply. 

Meet the Instructors

Dr. Suvineetha Herath, Ph.D.
Information and Communication Technology Instructor

Andrea Jenkins
Information and Communication Technology Adjunct Instructor

Cynthia Johnson
Information and Communication Technology Adjunct Instructor

Linda Lee
Information and Communication Technology Adjunct Instructor

Jenna Linkin
Information and Communication Technology Adjunct Instructor

 

Department of Career and Technical Education
2400 Tom L Wilson Blvd.
Galesburg, IL 61401
309.341.5274

 

SANDBURG TECH SQUAD

The Sandburg Tech Squad's mission is to actively participate and promote knowledge and skills within the information communication technology field throughout our club activities. Members work to become leaders and set examples for the community as professionals in valuing our lifelong learning process while helping and providing services to the whole campus community.

Advisor: Dr. Suvineetha Herath, 309.341.5269 or sherath@sandburg.edu

For a list of all student organizations, click here.