Social Science Division

Criminal Justice: Cybersecurity

Bob Moschgat
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Social Science Division
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8430

Larry Snyder
Assistant Professor
Criminal Justice Program
(315) 866-0300 or toll free 1-888-GO-4-HCCC, ext. 8227

Program Summary

Digital information now touches almost every aspect of modern life. Digital information systems keep track of countless business and personal transactions and information. Concerns over the integrity, privacy and security of this information have become increasingly important to government, business and private citizens. The growing awareness of computer and network threats and vulnerabilities has resulted in the need for information technology and law enforcement professionals trained in information assurance theory and the practice of cybersecurity.

The aim of this program is to focus upon developing front-line practitioners-the cyber-cops, systems analysts, and entry-level computer professionals-who represent the first line of defense against information attacks.

This Associate in Science degree is designed to prepare the graduate for transfer to a four-year institution for more specialized study in a cybersecurity career field before entry into the workforce. Requirements include a combination of criminal justice and computer-technology courses to help students develop the skills needed to work in this growing, emerging career field.

Information technology is becoming the hidden arterial of vast expanses of the nation's infrastructure-the electrical grid, communications, the Internet, banking and finance, the chemical and oil and gas industries, transportation, water supply systems, law enforcement, and defense. Protecting this vital, complex information structure will be the role of emerging occupations in cybersecurity.

The Cybersecurity A.S. degree program fills a need for new curricular offerings in contemporary security, while at the same time broadening the scope of the social sciences at HCCC.

Program of Study at Herkimer

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Criminal Substantive Law
• Introduction to Private Security
• Introductory Psychology
• Criminology
• Web Essentials
• Computer Science
• Introduction to Information Assurance
• Fundamentals of Computer Network Architecture
• Fundamentals of Information Assurance
• Criminal Procedure Law
• Terrorism and Homeland Security
• Computer Network Security
• Freshman Seminar
• English
• Math Statistics I
• Physical Education for the CJ Major
• Laboratory Science

Click Cybersecurity for the current program of study page.

Skill Requirements

Students interested in pursuing the study of Cybersecurity should have a strong interest in Criminal Justice, computer network security, and a desire to work in law enforcement or private sector security. Computer literacy is required for entry into the program. Good written and verbal communication skills are also important.

Nature of the Work

Cybersecurity professionals are the first line of defense in protecting the cyber-network in fields such as banking and finance, transportation, petrochemical industry, law enforcement and defense, communications, government and Homeland Security.

Job Outlook

Along with the increase in more complex information systems in all areas of government and the private sector, and with the rise in terrorism-related security activity, comes the increased need for Cybersecurity professionals. A bachelor's degree is expected in most entry-level positions. Entry-level salaries are between $42,780 and $69,760.