Cybersecurity and Network Systems Program Description
Building strong cybersecurity foundations for an evolving digital world.
Technology powers every industry, creating an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can secure, manage, and defend today's connected world. Hocking College's Cybersecurity and Network Systems program prepares students for this evolving field through hands-on learning, real-world projects, and industry-aligned curriculum that combines a strong networking foundation with modern cybersecurity practices.
Students develop technical expertise in networking, operating systems, cloud technologies, automation, and cybersecurity while learning to responsibly leverage artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies throughout the curriculum. Guided by experienced faculty, students apply their knowledge in immersive labs, realistic scenarios, and collaborative projects that reflect the responsibilities of today's cybersecurity professionals.
Graduates leave with the knowledge, practical experience, professional portfolio, and certification preparation needed to pursue careers in cybersecurity, networking, cloud, and IT operations or continue their education through bachelor's degree transfer pathways.
Hocking College offers all-inclusive pricing and works with students to assure they have complete college funding, including financial aid, before they start classes. Please reference the course curriculum tab for program costs.
All-inclusive pricing includes the following:
PER SEMESTER
$300......Learning Fee
$20........Health Center Services
$75........Career Center Services
Not included in the All-Inclusive Pricing
$53......Parking
Pricing for housing and meal plans can be found here.
The Cybersecurity and Network Systems curriculum is designed to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications that validate technical knowledge and enhance career opportunities. Certification preparation is integrated throughout the program, allowing students to build foundational and advanced cybersecurity skills as they progress through the curriculum.
Students may be prepared for certification opportunities including:
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CompTIA A+ – Hardware, operating systems, troubleshooting, and foundational IT skills.
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CompTIA Network+ – Networking concepts, infrastructure, troubleshooting, and network security.
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CompTIA Security+ – Cybersecurity fundamentals, risk management, security operations, and threat mitigation.
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Python Institute PCEP – Foundational Python programming and automation skills.
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CompTIA CySA+ – Advanced cybersecurity analysis, threat detection, incident response, and defensive security operations.
Certification opportunities are reviewed regularly to align with evolving industry standards, employer needs, and program curriculum.
A Career in Cybersecurity and Network Systems Offers a Variety of Opportunities
Cybersecurity and networking professionals play a critical role in protecting organizations, securing digital infrastructure, and supporting today's connected world. As technology continues to evolve, demand remains strong for skilled professionals with expertise in cybersecurity, networking, cloud technologies, and information technology across a wide range of industries.
Graduates of Hocking College's Cybersecurity and Network Systems program are prepared for careers in cybersecurity, networking, systems administration, cloud support, and information technology. Students develop the technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional skills needed for entry-level positions while building a strong foundation for career advancement and continued education through bachelor's degree transfer opportunities.
Explore the resources below to learn more about career opportunities, workforce demand, and salary information in cybersecurity and information technology.
Explore Cybersecurity Careers (CyberSeek)
View Occupational Outlook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Explore IT Skills & Salary Insights (CompTIA State of the Tech Workforce)
Graduates of the Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Network Systems program will be able to:
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Analyze cybersecurity and information technology challenges using critical thinking, problem-solving, and industry best practices to develop effective solutions.
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Design, implement, secure, manage, and troubleshoot modern technology environments, including computing systems, networks, cloud services, and connected infrastructure.
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Apply cybersecurity principles, risk management practices, and security controls to protect digital assets, information systems, and organizational operations.
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Evaluate and apply current and emerging technologies, including automation, scripting, artificial intelligence, and industry-standard tools, to support cybersecurity operations and informed decision-making.
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Analyze, document, and communicate technical information, security findings, and technology solutions effectively for both technical and non-technical audiences.
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Demonstrate ethical, legal, and professional responsibility while applying cybersecurity principles, industry standards, and best practices.
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Demonstrate career readiness through hands-on projects, professional communication, industry certification preparation, and the development of a Cybersecurity Professional Portfolio.
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Network Systems program will be prepared to:
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Design, implement, secure, manage, and troubleshoot modern technology environments that support organizational operations.
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Protect and defend computing systems, networks, applications, and data by applying cybersecurity principles, security controls, risk management, and industry best practices.
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Analyze, investigate, and respond to cybersecurity events using critical thinking, technical analysis, and industry-standard technologies.
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Evaluate and apply current and emerging technologies, including automation, scripting, artificial intelligence, cloud technologies, and other innovative solutions to improve cybersecurity operations.
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Communicate and collaborate effectively while demonstrating ethical, legal, and professional responsibility in technical and organizational environments.
In January 2020, Hocking College became one of 35 other secondary schools to be awarded a Choose Ohio First grant.
The grant — worth $65,600 — from the Ohio Department of Higher Education will fund scholarships for students joining the college’s Website and Application Development and Cybersecurity and Networking programs.
The grant allows for one scholarship each worth more than $2,700 for both programs for the next five years.
The scholarships are available to Ohio residents applying or transferring to Hocking College or changing their major to one of the two Computer Sciences programs.
What is the job market for Cybersecurity and Network Systems graduates?
Cybersecurity and information technology professionals continue to be in high demand across industries as organizations work to protect their systems, networks, and data. Graduates are prepared for careers in cybersecurity, networking, cloud technologies, and IT operations. Current career outlook and workforce information can be explored through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and CyberSeek.
What technologies and tools will I learn to use?
Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard technologies and platforms used in today's cybersecurity workforce. Learning experiences include networking, Windows and Linux operating systems, virtualization, cloud technologies, scripting and automation, cybersecurity analysis tools, artificial intelligence, and other current and emerging technologies integrated throughout the curriculum.
What is Cisco Networking Academy?
Hocking College is a Cisco Networking Academy, providing students with access to industry-recognized curriculum, hands-on learning resources, and certification preparation that align with current networking and cybersecurity workforce needs.
What certifications can I prepare for while completing the program?
The curriculum prepares students for industry-recognized certification opportunities including CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Python Institute PCEP, and CompTIA CySA+. Certification opportunities are reviewed regularly to align with evolving industry standards and program curriculum.
What is a typical semester like?
Students participate in a combination of lectures, discussions, hands-on labs, simulations, collaborative projects, and real-world scenarios. Throughout the program, students build a Cybersecurity Professional Portfolio while developing technical, analytical, and professional skills through project-based learning, certification preparation, and applied cybersecurity experiences.
Do I need previous cybersecurity or programming experience?
No. The program is designed to build skills progressively, beginning with foundational concepts in cybersecurity, networking, and information technology before advancing into cloud technologies, scripting, cyber operations, ethical hacking, and advanced cybersecurity topics.
How is artificial intelligence used throughout the program?
Artificial intelligence is intentionally integrated throughout the curriculum to enhance learning, support problem-solving, and prepare students to responsibly use AI as a professional tool in cybersecurity and information technology. Students learn to evaluate and apply AI alongside other emerging technologies while developing strong technical foundations.
What if I want to continue to a bachelor's degree after graduation?
Credits earned at Hocking College will transfer to many four-year institutions. We also have agreements with Akron University for a 2+2 degree and a 3+1 degree with Franklin University. In this agreement, you would be able to complete 3 years at Hocking College and 1 year at Franklin University and will have earned your bachelor's degree.
