IT Cybersecurity Specialist

Why IT Cybersecurity Specialist?

Cybersecurity specialists are the digital defenders of today’s connected world. In this program, you’ll learn to safeguard data, secure networks, and protect organizations against cyberattacks. Through hands-on training and real-world problem solving, you’ll build the skills employers demand in one of the fastest-growing careers nationwide.

At Mid-State, you’ll work with advanced tools used across the industry, gaining practical experience in system defense, threat detection, and security management. The program’s validation by the National Security Agency (NSA) ensures you graduate prepared for nationally recognized certifications and immediate entry into the workforce.

Apply Now Request Information

Program Facts

Total Credits

61 Credits

Degree Type

Associate in Applied Science (AAS)

Program Length

Two Years

Delivery Method

Hybrid

Location

Stevens Point Downtown, Wisconsin Rapids

Start Dates

Fall, Spring

Estimated Program Cost

$11,724.12

View Cost of Attendance

Financial Aid Eligibility

Fully Eligible

View Types of Aid

Program Outcomes

Graduates leave ready to succeed in their careers. Each year, data from Mid-State's Graduate Survey and statewide reports show consistently high satisfaction and strong starting salaries. Here's a snapshot of what success looks like after graduation.

Career Opportunities

Information Security Specialist

Junior Penetration Tester

Security Engineer

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst

Systems Administrator

$94k Median Annual Salary

Recent program grads in Wisconsin earned a starting salary of $94,125. Source: Lightcast Data Set

359

Average Monthly Hires

359 of recent Wisconsin program grads landed jobs within six months of graduation. Source: Lightcast Data Set

100%

Mid-State Graduate Satisfaction Rate

Students leave proud, prepared, and confident in what comes next. Source: Mid-State Graduate Survey Results

Program Details

Take a closer look at what the program offers and what to expect.

Program Courses

Following is the list of courses within the program. Your course plan may vary, and you'll get a recommended sequence once you're enrolled. See the program information guide below for full course details or talk with your advisor.

Program Information Guide (PDF)

Full-Time Curriculum (61 Total Credits)

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) options are available for some courses.

Term 1: (16 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10150110	Networking I	Yes	3
10151105	Linux	No	3
10154102	IT Essentials	Yes	3
10801198 or 10801196	Speech or Oral/Interpersonal Communication	Yes	3
10801196	Quantitative Reasoning	Yes	3
10890102	GPS for Student Success	Yes	1

Term 2: (15 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10150111	Networking II	Yes	3
10150120	Server Administration-Beginning	No	3
10150165	Network Server Scripting	No	3
10151110	Information Security 1	Yes	3
10152101	Intro to Programming	Yes	3

Term 3: (15 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10150112	Networking III	Yes	3
10151111	Information Security 2	No	3
10151160	Ethical Hacking	No	3
10809103	Think Critically & Creatively	Yes	3
10809198	Introduction to Psychology	Yes	3

Term 4: (15 Credits)

Course Number	Course Name	CPL	Credits
10151112	Information Security 3	No	3
10151161	IT Security Capstone	No	3
10151162	Secure Software Applications	No	3
10801195 or 10801136	Written Communication or English Composition 1	Yes	3
10809166	Introduction to Ethics: Theory & Application	Yes	3

Program Outcomes

Employers will expect graduates of this program to be able to:

Identify security strategies.
Implement secure infrastructures.
Conduct security testing.
Analyze security data.
Mitigate risk.
Develop security documentation.

Employability Skills

Alongside your career training, you'll develop key workplace strengths. Explore the additional skills you'll build.

Employability Skills (PDF)

Technical Standards

To succeed in this program, you'll need to meet certain technical standards. These are the key skills and abilities needed for the program and future career success—with or without reasonable accommodations. Be sure to review them carefully before you apply.

Technical Standards (PDF)

Career pathways help you build your education step by step. Each stage offers one or more credentials that are recognized by employers and lead to real jobs—and you can keep building toward your career goals as you go.

Prior Learning

Certificate

Technical Degree

Associate Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Get credit for what you already know. You may be able to earn college credit for prior learning through skills you’ve gained through high school classes, previous college work, self-study, military training, jobs, or volunteer experience.

Credit for Prior Learning
High School Dual Credit
Mid-State Fast-Track – Open to high school students

“Most students go to college to find good-paying careers doing something they enjoy. Mid-State gave me that and so much more, as I discovered my passion and achieved more than I ever could have anticipated.”

- Bryce C.
Mid-State Grad
“I couldn't have asked for a better education. My instructors were some of the most incredible people, and they were willing to do whatever was necessary to help everyone.”

- Leslie T.
Mid-State Grad
“Mid-State’s hands-on learning, convenient scheduling, updated technology, and instructors who can relate to the field have all helped me become successful and even advance in my career in under a year.”

- Stephanie B.
Mid-State Grad
“I value my experience at Mid-State tremendously. Even with a disability my education gave me the opportunity to join the workforce before I even graduated. Education equals opportunity.”

- Jake A.
Mid-State Grad
“My degree from Mid-State and the encouragement I received from my teachers gave me the skills and confidence to move forward in my life and excel in my career.”

- Sharon R.
Mid-State Grad
“The education I received at Mid-State has been invaluable. It built a foundation that is endlessly improving, providing excellent growth opportunities in my career.”

- Kevin B.
Mid-State Grad