Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Major
For our digital future to be secure, information must be safe. Earn real-world experience in computer networking and cybersecurity at Champlain College, and prepare yourself for a vital role protecting society from cyber threats.
Safeguard the Future.
The digital technology explosion has reshaped our society, and we need experts to make sure its benefits outweigh its risks. With data breaches and security threats on the rise, there’s a growing need for professionals who can protect against cyber attacks. If you’re interested in safeguarding systems and being at the forefront of this vital field, Champlain’s Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program could be for you.
What Is Computer & Digital Forensics?
Computer Networking & Cybersecurity is a field that focuses on protecting computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and potential threats. It involves understanding how computer networks work, designing secure systems, implementing protective measures, and detecting/responding to security incidents. With increasing reliance on technology and the Internet, cybersecurity has become critical to protecting sensitive information and ensuring the smooth operation of businesses and organizations. Exploring this field can open up exciting opportunities to help protect digital infrastructure and make a meaningful impact in the world of technology.
Why Study it at Champlain?
Champlain College’s Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program equips you with cutting-edge skills to protect the Internet and the digital realm. Our labs and virtual infrastructure provide hands-on experience in securing sensitive data for individuals and government agencies. You’ll learn to identify network vulnerabilities, implement robust security measures, and defend against cyberattacks.
Our Upside-Down Curriculum allows you to begin taking networking and cybersecurity courses in your first semester, and gain in-depth knowledge over the course of four years. Through projects, internships, and experiential learning, you’ll immerse yourself in the profession and develop skills in designing, building, and securing enterprise networks.
Highlights of our program include extensive training in server software, systems administration, networking, and protocols, all in small-sized classes to ensure a rich and personalized educational experience. Located in a city with ample job opportunities, our program sets you up for success in the field during and after college.
Senator Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity
At the Senator Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Forensics & Cybersecurity, you’ll work on network security, cyber threat response, and critical cybersecurity research. In this leading digital lab, you’ll participate in groundbreaking research and support the cybersecurity needs of government agencies and organizations. You’ll play a critical role in developing training protocols for law enforcement and examining the network security of emerging technologies. Through hands-on work at the Leahy Center, you’ll hone your skills as a Champlain cybersecurity student, contribute to the field, and graduate as a cybersecurity professional with real-world experience.
Different by Design
Leading the Way
Our program is nationally recognized and was one of the first programs in the country designated as a Center of Academic Excellence by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.
Specialized Cybersecurity Education
With a focus on adapting to the ever-changing landscape and new technologies in the field, our cybersecurity program was built from the ground up as a specialized degree designed specifically for the purpose of cybersecurity education.
Top-Ranked
Our program was ranked No. 1 by industry experts in SC Magazine’s list of top cybersecurity college programs.
Hands-On Experiences
Beginning in your first year, you’ll gain hands-on experience through projects, internships, service to local nonprofits and organizations, and partnerships with industry experts at the Leahy Center.
Facts & Stats
of Computer Networking & Cybersecurity majors in the Class of 2023 achieved career success within six months after graduation.
Cybersecurity students competed against a team of professional hackers in a two-day cyber defense competition during the annual Northeast Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (NECCDC), taking second place overall.
Median starting salary of Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Majors graduating in the Class of 2023.
Sample Courses in the Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Major
Check out some of the engaging and hands-on courses in the program. Our Upside-Down Curriculum puts you in your major right away.
Fourth Year
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Majors
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Digital Forensics Major
Release your digital investigation skills. Adopt the investigator’s mindset, solve mysteries, and master artifact discovery with Digital Forensics at Champlain College.
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Computer Science & Innovation Major
Help create the digital future. Free your creativity, do real work right away, and fuel your passion for technology and innovation.
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Applied Mathematics Major
Use math to tell stories, crack real-world issues, explore diverse applications, and gain problem-solving skills for future success in many industries.
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Criminology & Criminal Justice Major
Make communities safer. Build a better and more just system. Be an agent of organizational change.
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Minors
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Computer & Digital Forensics Minor
Analyze digital information, navigate the realm of digital security, and form a strong foundation working with computers in the Computer & Digital Forensics minor.
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Computer Science Minor
Analyze problems, develop software systems, and use a variety of tools to evaluate computer programs and bring your innovations to realization in the Computer Science minor.
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Information Technology Minor
Identify core computer networking and infrastructure components and the roles they serve to supplement business, creative, and other professional pursuits.
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Law Minor
A strong base understanding of law and the legal system is a valuable asset to any résumé. Tailor your classes to focus on the specific kind of law that applies to your chosen career and get ahead.
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Criminal Justice Minor
Justice at all levels is a keystone of a functional society. Learn the criminal justice process at multiple levels and how your knowledge of this system can benefit your career.
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Areas of Study
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Cybersecurity, Computer Science & Digital Technology
Solve everyday problems to build a better future with one of these tech-centered majors.
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Law & Society
Want to uphold a system of justice through meaningful public service? Check out these majors that revolve around “doing good.”
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Individualized Studies & Undeclared
Learn what you love, and love what you learn with one of these professional pathways.
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Business & Data Analytics
Drive change at the intersection of information and impact with one of these majors.
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National Recognition
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NSA DesignationSince 2007, Champlain College has proudly held a Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation, which is renewed periodically. Our cybersecurity curriculum meets the rigorous criteria set by the NSA, FBI, and Department of Defense, helping to strengthen the nation’s information infrastructure. As an active participant in the NCAE program, we set a high standard for cybersecurity education, producing confident professionals with extensive cyber defense expertise.
Cybersecurity Advisory Board: Leading education with industry engagement
Composed of external experts, this group provides Champlain with guidance on educational objectives, learning outcomes, and preparing students for the evolving cybersecurity workforce. The board also evaluates the quality of experiential learning and internship opportunities, with members representing various industry sectors.
Seamless Transition to Grad School
Are you thinking about going to graduate school? Through Champlain College Online, you can seamlessly go from undergraduate to graduate student, enhancing your skills and career opportunities.
Pathways to Advanced DegreesSign Up To Get Stickers + Helpful Info
Ready to be inspired? Fill out the form and sign up to receive helpful information about Champlain College—plus, we’ll send you a full sheet of high quality stickers designed by one of our Graphic Design & Visual Communication graduates.
Career Success
The Computer Networking & Cybersecurity program prepares graduates for the workplace. 97% of CNCS majors in the Class of 2023 were employed within six months of graduation.
Your Career Outlook
By the time you graduate, you will…
- Have a solid grasp of cybersecurity fundamentals and be able to analyze architectures, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend controls to mitigate threats.
- Have hands-on experience configuring and managing security controls, such as configuring host firewalls, user access controls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and encryption mechanisms at various levels.
- Have a deep understanding of networking protocols, such as Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) and Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), and how they facilitate communication between networked hosts and applications. Be able to design and implement network solutions based on business requirements.
- Understand the components and roles of computer systems, including CPUs, memory, storage, and networking. You will be able to manage operating systems, network services, and security controls to troubleshoot problems and ensure optimal performance.
- Develop strong teamwork and communication skills. You will actively collaborate with others as a member or leader of project-based teams and learn how to effectively communicate technical information through formal documentation, presentations, and interpersonal interactions.
You’ll Find a Career In…
- Network Engineering
- IT Security and Cybersecurity
- Cybersecurity Consulting
- Security Operations and Incident Response
- Systems Architecture
- Digital Forensics
- Cloud Security Engineering
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Pre-College Summer Program: Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics AcademyThe Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics Academy offers students an in-depth learning experience in the field of cybersecurity and digital forensics. Students work together to solve real digital forensics problems faced by law enforcement agencies all over America and gain hands-on learning experience from veterans of the cybersecurity industry in this pre-college summer program.
This program is designed for students entering grades 10–12 and recent high school graduates.
Learn More on the Pre-College Summer Program Website
Latest News from The View
More Inside Computer Networking & Cybersecurity Major
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Overview
For our digital future to be secure, information must be safe. Earn real-world experience in computer networking and cybersecurity at Champlain College, and prepare yourself for a vital role protecting society from cyber threats.
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Curriculum
With our Upside-Down Curriculum, you'll get hands-on learning in web technology, networking, and security, as well as valuable experience through internships.
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Faculty
Our Computer Networking and Cybersecurity faculty go above and beyond to inspire your curiosity, learning, and growth. Small class sizes foster personal connections and mastery.