Cybersecurity

Montreat College Online through the School of Adult & Graduate Studies

Classes start January 6, 2024!

Prepare for a Career in Cybersecurity.

Montreat College’s Cybersecurity program is on the cutting edge of a rapidly expanding field.

  • Cybersecurity is one of the most rapidly expanding fields in the world today, with job postings up 74 percent over the past five years.
  • Montreat College’s online Bachelor in Cybersecurity Degree Program prepares students to solve the cybersecurity issues and concerns faced today in many corporate and government environments​.
  • We teach a responsible and ethical approach to cybersecurity, giving students the necessary instruction and experience to become leading professional cyber defenders and “ethical hackers” (those hired by an organization to test its security).
  • Study in a program guided by a Cybersecurity Advisory Council featuring leaders from the banking, retail, government, and defense sectors.

For over 25 years, Montreat College Online through the School of Adult and Graduate Studies has been helping adult students acquire essential skills, complete their degrees, and take their career to the next level. Montreat offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs in a classroom or online.

In addition to the Montreat College Online Cybersecurity program, we also offer a traditional undergraduate Cybersecurity program on our Montreat, North Carolina campus.

 National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity logo

Montreat College is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Montreat College’s Cybersecurity program offered?

Courses are offered online.

 

When are the start dates for the online Cybersecurity degree program?

Please see the admissions page for specific enrollment and start dates.

How long does it take to complete the Cybersecurity degree program?

A Bachelor’s Degree is 120 credit hours and can take one to four years to complete depending upon the amount of credits you transfer in.

 

What are the length of the online bachelor's cybersecurity courses?

Starting Fall 2021, all courses will be eight-week sessions. There are 2 sessions in a semester. To be considered a full-time undergraduate student, a student must take 12 credit hours per semester. For the 12 credit hours, the student must take 2 courses (6 credit hours) the first eight-week session and 2 courses (6 credit hours) the second eight-week session. Semesters in this program are Spring, Summer, and Fall.

 

How much does the Cybersecurity degree program cost?

Montreat College programs are competitively priced, and we offer multiple forms of financial aid to help you achieve your educational goals.  Please see the current AGS Tuition and Fees page here.  Also, please keep in mind that there are multiple college and government financial aid programs available to help mitigate the cost of your education. You can learn more about your financial aid options

What jobs can you pursue with a Cybersecurity degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS), the job market for Cybersecurity professionals is expected to grow 28% from 2016-26, much faster than the job market generally. Cybersecurity jobs include: security analyst, security engineer, security architect, security administrator, security software developer, chief information security officer, director of security, security consultant/specialist, intrusion detection specialist, computer security incident responder, source code auditor, virus technician, vulnerability assessor/researcher, penetration tester, malware analyst, disaster recovery analyst, business continuity analyst, cyber forensics investigator, and many more.​

 

How much money do Cybersecurity professionals typically make?

According to the BLS, Cybersecurity professionals earn an average annual salary of $98,350. However, the amount of money that such professionals make depends on many factors, including region, industry, and specialization.

 

What is the job market like for people with Cybersecurity degrees?

Demand for information security analysts is expected to be very high, as these analysts will be needed to create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing critical information or causing problems for computer networks.

 

What are the admissions requirements?

Applicants must submit the following for admissions consideration:

  • Montreat College Application for Admission
  • Official, final transcripts of all college courses taken*
  • Overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale or higher in all previous college work attempted.
  • Official, final high school transcript or its equivalent (if transferring less than 12 semester credits of college credit)*
  • American Council on Education (ACE) verification demonstrating any eligible CLEP and DSST examinations, and non-collegiate military training.

*All final transcripts must include graduation information

What are the degree requirements?

  • Completion of Bachelor General Education Core (39 credits)
  • CYBR 1131 and MATH 1210 are required in the Gen-Ed
  • Completion of the Cybersecurity Major Courses (60 credits)
  • Completion of electives to reach 120 credits
  • Completion of two terms and 32 credits hours in residence at Montreat College

Courses

BUSN Business Elective

Business Elective

CYBR 1111 Introduction to Computer Hardware

An in-depth study of computer hardware covering the domains of the A+ Certification Test 1001. Focus is on identification, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of field replaceable components. Topics include microprocessors, all types of memory, expansion bus, motherboards, power supplies, storage, removable media, video, audio, portable PCs, printers, networks, the Internet, computer security, and installation of current Windows operating systems and installation of Linux in a dual boot environment.

CYBR 1121 Introduction to Computer Operating Systems

An in-depth study of computer operating systems covering the domains of the A+ Certification Test 1002. Focus is on current Windows operating systems, current Linux distributions and Mac OS X. This includes installation, maintenance, and management of desktops and servers.

CYBR 1211 Introduction to Computer Programming

This course introduces computer programming and problem solving in a structured program logic environment. Topics include language syntax, data types, program organization, problem-solving methods, algorithm design, and logic control structures. Upon completion, students should be able to use top-down algorithm design and implement algorithmic solutions in a programming language. Examples and assignments will be in C++.

CYBR 2212 Introduction to Secure Scripting

This course offers an in-depth introduction to scripting languages, including basic data types, control structures, regular expressions, input/output, and textual analysis. Examples and assignments will be in Python. Prerequisite: CYBR 1211

CYBR 2213 Database Programming

A course introducing the student to the logic, design, implementation, and security of organizational. Particular emphasis is placed on relational database management that focuses on the logical nature of databases. Popular database programs and SQL constructions will be utilized. This course will touch on newer NOSQL databases as well.

CYBR 2221 Introduction to Computer Networking

An in-depth study of computer networking theories and concepts covering the domains of the Network+ Certification. Focus is on the configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network devices using appropriate network tools and understanding of the features and purpose of network technologies. Prerequisite: CYBR 1111.

CBYR 2222 Network Defense

This course introduces students to the concepts of defense-in-depth, a security industry best practice. Topics include firewalls, backup systems, redundant systems, disaster recovery, Web and distributed systems security, specific implementation of security models and architectures, and incident handling. Upon completion, students should be able to plan effective information security defenses, backup systems, and disaster recovery procedures. Prerequisites: CYBR 2221

CYBR 2311 Computer and Systems Security

An in-depth study of computer and systems security covering the domains of the Security+ Certification. Focus is on the knowledge and skills required to identify risk and participate in risk mitigation activities, provide infrastructure, application, operational and information security, apply security controls to maintain confidentiality, integrity and availability, identify appropriate technologies and products, and operate with an awareness of applicable policies, laws and regulations. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing.

CYBR 2333 Principles of Cyber Defense I

A practical application of the theories and practices for prevention of cyber-attacks. Students will discuss and practice countermeasures including encryption, policy­making, monitoring of access controls, development of secure systems, as well as the review of verification and validation measures. Primary focus will be on Windows systems software. Pre- or Co-requisite: CYBR 2221

CYBR 3312 Principles of Cybersecurity

Examination of current standards of due care and best business practices in Cybersecurity. Includes examination of security technologies, methodologies and practices. Focus is on the evaluation and selection of optimal security posture. Topics include evaluation of security models, risk assessment, threat analysis, organizational technology evaluation, security implementation, disaster recovery planning and security policy formulation and implementation. Prerequisite: CYBR 2311 or Comp TIA Security+. (3 credit, 8 weeks online)

CYBR 3321 The 3 C's: Cybercrime, Cyberlaw and Cyberethics

A study of the impact of cybercrimes affecting various entities and organizations engaged in cyberspace transactions and activities including the government, military, financial institutions, retailers and private citizens. The course covers broad areas of law pertaining to cyberspace, including Intellectual Property (Copyright, Patent, Trademark, and Trade Secret), Contract, and the U.S. Constitution. The study of Cyberethics addresses a definition of ethics, provides a framework for making ethical decisions undergirded by a biblical worldview, and analyzes in detail several areas of ethical issues that computer professionals are likely to encounter in cyberspace and in business. Prerequisite: CYBR 2311

CYBR 4523 Advanced Cyber Defense

This course discusses the hardware/software tools and techniques associated with the protection of computer systems and networks, including Linux software. Students learn how to protect network resources in live in-course simulations. Course topics include policy and practice associated with the protection of communication resources, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, and use of anti-virus, patching practices, as well as personnel and physical security practices. Prerequisite: CYBR 222

CYBR 4541 Introduction to Penetration Testing

A detailed examination of real-world cybersecurity knowledge, enabling recognition of vulnerabilities, exploitation of system weaknesses, and safeguards against threats. Students will learn the art of penetration testing through hands-on exercises and a final project. Students who complete this course will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to analyze and evaluate systems security. Prerequisite: CYBR 2222

CYBR 4542 Incident Response and Contingency Planning

An examination of the detailed aspects of incident response, digital forensics, and contingency planning consisting of incident response planning, disaster recovery planning, and business continuity planning. Developing and executing plans to deal with incidents in the organization is a critical function in information security. This course focuses on the planning and processes to respond appropriately using cyber threat intelligence in the event of a potential cyber event. Prerequisite: CYBR 3312

CYBR 4073 Advanced Cybersecurity Internship and Senior Project OR CYBR 4643 Cybersecurity Capstone

CYBR 4073 Advanced Cybersecurity Internship and Senior Project
This advanced supervised internship provides students with the opportunity to integrate classroom instruction with on-the-job training in an area associated with coursework completed. Students will be required to document a minimum of 90 clock hours of internship engagement and to produce a comprehensive cybersecurity project reflective of the completed program of study. Potential senior projects include security assessments for current businesses, which can include business continuity plans and disaster recovery plans. Course can be taken concurrently with CYBR 4542. Prerequisite: CYBR 4523 (Offered by department discretion.)

OR

CYBR 4643 Cybersecurity Capstone
This capstone project allows students to integrate classroom instruction with an area of identified need. Students will be required to document research into an issue in cybersecurity and to produce a comprehensive cybersecurity project reflective of the completed program of study. Potential cybersecurity capstone projects include comprehensive assessment of small businesses or nonprofits or case study cybersecurity assessments and improvement criteria. (Capstone projects require pre­approval of supervising faculty) Prerequisite: CYBR 4542 (Offered by department discretion.)

Faculty

Kelli Burgin

Kelli Burgin
Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity
Studies in Cybersecurity
Director, Faculty of Technology and Human Industry
kelli.burgin@montreat.edu

Photo of Greg Sayadian

Greg Sayadian
Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity
Chair, Studies in Cybersecurity
Faculty of Technology and Human Industry
greg.sayadian@montreat.edu

Laurel Schneider
Department Chair, Business and Technology
Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity
laurel.schneider@montreat.edu

James Tippey

Dr. Jim Tippey
Assistant Professor of Cybersecurity
Studies in Cybersecurity
Faculty of Technology and Human Industry
james.tippey@montreat.edu

Job Growth

According to U.S Bureau of Labor statistics, more than 209,000 cybersecurity jobs in the U.S. are unfilled, job postings are up 74% over the past five years, and the cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $75 billion in 2015 to $170 billion in 2020.