Updated Cybersecurity Program – Coming Fall 2026
Launch Your Future in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is one of today’s fastest-growing and most in-demand career fields and our program is growing with it. River Valley Community College is updating its Cybersecurity program for Fall 2026 to reflect current industry standards, emerging technologies, and the skills employers value most.
Designed for students beginning their IT journey, this refreshed program builds a strong foundation in information technology, security principles, and modern cybersecurity practices. Our application will be available soon, let us know you’re planning to enroll by filling out the form below.
What’s New
Our updated curriculum replaces the previous healthcare IT emphasis with broader, more flexible coursework that supports a wider range of careers and transfer opportunities. Highlights include:
· Security and AI Concepts – Explore how artificial intelligence is shaping cybersecurity and threat detection
· Ethical Hacking – Learn how to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen system security
· Modernized IT Foundations – Gain industry-relevant skills aligned with today’s workforce needs
· Career-Focused Flexibility – Prepare for employment or continue toward a bachelor’s degree
RVCC is an excellent place to begin your academic journey with:
· Affordable tuition
· Small class sizes
· Personalized faculty support
· Hands-on learning experiences
We are also developing transfer pathways with regional universities, helping students continue seamlessly into bachelor’s degree programs. As a regionally accredited institution, RVCC credits may also be transferred to many other colleges and universities.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue entry-level roles such as:
· Cybersecurity Technician
· IT Support Specialist
· Security Operations Center (SOC) Technician
· Junior Security Analyst
· Network Support Technician
With additional education and experience, students can advance into careers such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, or Systems Administrator.
Enroll for Fall 2026
Now is the perfect time to enter a growing field, gain valuable technical skills, and build a pathway toward long-term career success.
Interested in learning more? Contact RVCC today to discuss your goals, course planning, and transfer opportunities.
To develop and train cybersecurity technology professionals, who can help companies manage and protect their systems and utilize their skills in any technology including within a medical environment.
Program Goals
The goal of the Cybersecurity program is to prepare students for a career in computer technology, and successfully inform them of ways to apply their skills.
Program outcomes
The program will provide students with a strong foundation of understanding in cybersecurity. Students will learn:
- the broad discipline of cyber security and develop a foundation of knowledge of the field
- to write clearly and effectively for defined audiences through a variety of strategies
- the purpose behind their field of study, how to best interact with the people in their work environment and the career path that is best aligned with their personal goals
- how to use multiple operating systems commonly found in the Cybersecurity Technology field today
- basic security principles for information assurance
- the basics of descriptive and inferential statistics
- the basics of the web development process and types of attacks that can occur
- computer networking through the introduction of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, the TCP/IP protocol suite, routing and switching protocols, Wide Area Network services, and network design & implementation
- a programming language and be able to design and implement simple programs dealing with numerical and string processing
- to implement, maintain and protect a Microsoft Windows Server Domain
- to perform ordinary tasks in the Linux operating systems
- the methods in which emerging technologies can be deployed on current and future platforms
- how to succeed in an information technology position through an Internship or Capstone course
Cybersecurity is an open enrollment program. We accept students once they are accepted to River Valley; no other requirements necessary. At RVCC, we believe all students should be able to complete a degree and be able to transfer or start their career as smoothly as possible.
Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
First Year: Spring Semester
Second Year: Fall Semester
Second Year: Spring Semester
Information Technology & Network Administration
The Information Technology and Network Administration Associate of Science degree prepares students for careers supporting, securing, and administering today’s interconnected technology environments. Combining technical coursework with general education, the program provides a comprehensive foundation in networking, systems administration, virtualization, security, and emerging technologies. Developing communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills valued by employers and four-year institutions.
Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce in roles such as network support specialist, help desk technician, systems administrator, network administrator, infrastructure technician, and IT support professional. The curriculum provides a solid foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Computer Science, and related disciplines. Students planning to transfer are encouraged to select higher-level mathematics coursework whenever appropriate.
Students gain hands-on experience configuring and troubleshooting network infrastructure, administering Windows and Linux systems, implementing virtualization technologies, and applying security best practices to protect organizational assets. The program also introduces students to current industry standards and practices that support preparation for certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, and Microsoft credentials.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train information technology and networking professionals who can design, administer, secure, and support technology systems that enable organizations to operate effectively in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Information Technology and Network Administration degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational principles of information technology, networking, and systems administration to support organizational technology needs.
- Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain wired and wireless network infrastructures using industry-standard tools and practices.
- Administer and support Microsoft Windows Server and Linux operating systems within enterprise environments.
- Implement security best practices to identify, mitigate, and respond to risks affecting information systems and network resources.
- Deploy and manage virtualization, storage, and emerging technologies commonly used in modern IT environments.
- Analyze technical problems, evaluate solutions, and apply critical thinking skills to resolve real-world technology challenges.
- Communicate technical concepts effectively through written, verbal, and interpersonal interactions with diverse audiences.
- Apply programming, database, and analytical skills to support operational and business objectives.
- Demonstrate professionalism, ethical decision-making, and collaboration in technology settings.
- Integrate knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for successful transition into the workforce or continued academic study.
NOTE
* See course descriptions for co/prerequisite course requirements.** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
Information Technology & Network Administration
The Information Technology and Network Administration Associate of Science degree prepares students for careers supporting, securing, and administering today’s interconnected technology environments. Combining technical coursework with general education, the program provides a comprehensive foundation in networking, systems administration, virtualization, security, and emerging technologies. Developing communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills valued by employers and four-year institutions.
Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce in roles such as network support specialist, help desk technician, systems administrator, network administrator, infrastructure technician, and IT support professional. The curriculum provides a solid foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Computer Science, and related disciplines. Students planning to transfer are encouraged to select higher-level mathematics coursework whenever appropriate.
Students gain hands-on experience configuring and troubleshooting network infrastructure, administering Windows and Linux systems, implementing virtualization technologies, and applying security best practices to protect organizational assets. The program also introduces students to current industry standards and practices that support preparation for certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, and Microsoft credentials.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train information technology and networking professionals who can design, administer, secure, and support technology systems that enable organizations to operate effectively in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Information Technology and Network Administration degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational principles of information technology, networking, and systems administration to support organizational technology needs.
- Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain wired and wireless network infrastructures using industry-standard tools and practices.
- Administer and support Microsoft Windows Server and Linux operating systems within enterprise environments.
- Implement security best practices to identify, mitigate, and respond to risks affecting information systems and network resources.
- Deploy and manage virtualization, storage, and emerging technologies commonly used in modern IT environments.
- Analyze technical problems, evaluate solutions, and apply critical thinking skills to resolve real-world technology challenges.
- Communicate technical concepts effectively through written, verbal, and interpersonal interactions with diverse audiences.
- Apply programming, database, and analytical skills to support operational and business objectives.
- Demonstrate professionalism, ethical decision-making, and collaboration in technology settings.
- Integrate knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for successful transition into the workforce or continued academic study.
NOTE
* See course descriptions for co/prerequisite course requirements.** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
Information Technology & Network Administration
The Information Technology and Network Administration Associate of Science degree prepares students for careers supporting, securing, and administering today’s interconnected technology environments. Combining technical coursework with general education, the program provides a comprehensive foundation in networking, systems administration, virtualization, security, and emerging technologies. Developing communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills valued by employers and four-year institutions.
Graduates are prepared to enter the workforce in roles such as network support specialist, help desk technician, systems administrator, network administrator, infrastructure technician, and IT support professional. The curriculum provides a solid foundation for students intending to transfer to bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science, Information Technology, Applied Computer Science, and related disciplines. Students planning to transfer are encouraged to select higher-level mathematics coursework whenever appropriate.
Students gain hands-on experience configuring and troubleshooting network infrastructure, administering Windows and Linux systems, implementing virtualization technologies, and applying security best practices to protect organizational assets. The program also introduces students to current industry standards and practices that support preparation for certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, and Microsoft credentials.
Applicants must meet the College’s general admission requirements. Students attending part-time may require more than two years to complete the program.
Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher in all required CSCI and CYBS courses to progress within the program and graduate.
Students who are unable to pass a criminal background check may encounter limitations in obtaining or maintaining employment in the information technology field and should consider alternative educational pathways.
Program Mission
To develop and train information technology and networking professionals who can design, administer, secure, and support technology systems that enable organizations to operate effectively in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Program / Student Outcomes
Graduates of the Information Technology and Network Administration degree program will be able to:
- Apply foundational principles of information technology, networking, and systems administration to support organizational technology needs.
- Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain wired and wireless network infrastructures using industry-standard tools and practices.
- Administer and support Microsoft Windows Server and Linux operating systems within enterprise environments.
- Implement security best practices to identify, mitigate, and respond to risks affecting information systems and network resources.
- Deploy and manage virtualization, storage, and emerging technologies commonly used in modern IT environments.
- Analyze technical problems, evaluate solutions, and apply critical thinking skills to resolve real-world technology challenges.
- Communicate technical concepts effectively through written, verbal, and interpersonal interactions with diverse audiences.
- Apply programming, database, and analytical skills to support operational and business objectives.
- Demonstrate professionalism, ethical decision-making, and collaboration in technology settings.
- Integrate knowledge and practical experience through capstone or experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for successful transition into the workforce or continued academic study.
NOTE
* See course descriptions for co/prerequisite course requirements.** Total program credits are presented as a range and may vary based on transfer coursework. Students who complete all courses at RVCC follow the higher credit total. See Graduation Requirements for more details.
Total Credits:61 – 66Course Sequencing
First Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsFirst Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Fall Semester
Item #TitleCreditsSecond Year: Spring Semester
Item #TitleCreditsTotal Credits:61 – 66Overview
STEM and Advanced Manufacturing