SDNS-02 Cybersecurity Networks
The future is now - learn how to build and manage cyber networks while providing a pathway for a stable career.

Course Information

Course Dates: New Cohorts begin every even month (Feb, Apr, Jun, Aug, Oct, Dec)

Format: Online

Times: Online, Self-Paced.

Cost: $23,750

Includes $1,000 for Material fees and subscriptions

The Cybersecurity Networks Program (SDNS-02) develops a solid understanding of cyber networks and the foundational elements which are core to both traditional and cloud-based networks. The track emphasizes learning the inner workings of how networks operate, how they need to be maintained, and the necessary skills required to defend them against attack. The track encompasses both theoretical and practical learning as part of the 650 hours in course curriculum.

The Cybersecurity Networks Program provides you the knowledge and skills needed to demonstrate competence in network security for professional-level cyber and network security careers. The program prepares participants to write two acclaimed industry certification exams – Cisco CyberOps Associate and the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Successful completion of these exams provides the participant with a globally recognized professional certification.

Cybersecurity Network Curriculum

The path to Cybersecurity Network certification requires successful completion of the 650-hour curriculum that includes each of the following courses:

I.T. Essentials (70 Hours)

Acquire foundational computer skills and prepare for entry-level I.T. roles through hands-on labs and simulations. Learn to identify and mitigate common security threats while gaining practical experience in enterprise networking.

Python Essentials I (40 Hours)

Master the fundamentals of Python programming, covering syntax, semantics, and general computer programming concepts. Gain proficiency in object-oriented programming and essential coding techniques.

Linux O.S. Essentials (70 Hours)

Delve into the intricacies of Linux, the cornerstone of open-source collaboration and a ubiquitous operating system renowned for its reliability. This course equips you with essential Linux skills, paving the way towards the LPI Linux Essentials Professional Development Certificate.

Career Suite (40 Hours)

This program parallels technical courses and introduces theories and concepts crucial for success in civilian workplaces. It explores practical strategies for addressing workplace challenges, with a focus on individual success in I.T. or cybersecurity roles.

Intro to Cybersecurity (50 Hours)

This course introduces you to the dynamic world of Cybersecurity by exploring trends, treats, and personal privacy protection strategies. Whether you’re pursuing a career in cybersecurity or safeguarding your online presence, it offers invaluable insights.

Intro to Networks (70 Hours)

This course introduces the architectures, models, protocols, and networking elements that connect users, devices, applications, and data through the Internet and across modern computer networks – including I.P. addressing and Ethernet fundamentals. By the end of the course, students can build simple local area networks (LAN) that integrate I.P. addressing schemes and foundational network security and perform basic configurations for routers and switches.

Cyber Essentials (50 Hours)

This course provides fundamental knowledge in common security concepts, basic security techniques, and the core aspects of applications, operating systems, and networking relevant to a Security Operations Center (SOC). Through hands-on training with popular security tools, you’ll develop skills in threat detection within real-world network environments. With expert guidance and practical experience using enterprise-grade security tools, you’ll gain insights into network and security fundamentals, endpoint attacks, cryptography, analysis, and monitoring, making it an ideal starting point for those aspiring to enter Cybersecurity.

Network Essentials (70 Hours)

This course helps students develop understanding and hands-on ability in network design and defense. It instills a foundational understanding of data transfer, network technologies, and software operations, enabling students to comprehend network operations, automation, and analytical processes. Through comprehensive instruction, students learn to safeguard against, detect, and respond to network attacks, covering essential topics such as network defence principles, security control applications, protocol usage, perimeter appliance management, secure IDS, VPN, and firewall configuration. Additionally, the course delves into network traffic analysis, signature identification, and vulnerability scanning, essential skills for crafting robust network security policies and executing successful incident response strategies.

Switching, Routing & Wireless Essentials (70 Hours)

This course offers comprehensive insights into the structure, components, and functions of routers and switches within small networks. Students acquire practical skills in configuring routers and switches to ensure basic operations. Upon completion, students will proficiently configure and troubleshoot routers, utilizing various technologies such as static routing, RIP versions two and next generation, virtual LANs, Dot1q trunking, inter-VLAN routing, NAT, DHCP, port security, standard access control lists, and device discovery protocols. Additionally, students engage with IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and subnetting, requiring access to a Windows-based multimedia computer.

Enterprise Networks (70 Hours)

This course delves into the architectural aspects and strategic considerations essential for designing, securing, operating, and resolving issues in enterprise networks. This encompasses vast area network (WAN) technologies, quality of service (QoS) mechanisms, and secure remote access protocols. Emphasizing contemporary concepts like software-defined networking, virtualization, and automation, students acquire competencies in configuring and troubleshooting enterprise networks while developing insights into cybersecurity threats and countermeasures. Additionally, students explore network management tools and essential principles of software-defined networking, including controller-based architectures and the role of application programming interfaces (APIs) in facilitating network automation.

Network Security Capstone/CCNA Exam Prep (50 Hours)

The Capstone program offers a structured test preparation regimen utilizing established series elements and methods. Each chapter begins with Do I Know This Already? Quizzes allow you to gauge your familiarity with the content and allocate time accordingly. Clear exam topic lists facilitate easy reference, while Exam Preparation Tasks at the end of each chapter provide focused practice on essential concepts for thorough understanding.

🔎 Note: SDNS-02 can be taken as a full course or completed through modular components:

  • SDNS-4: IT Foundations
  • SDNS-7: Intermediate Cybersecurity Program
  • SDNS-8: Advanced Cybersecurity Network Program

 

Network Security Jobs

(SDNS-02) is specialized for employment as Information Security Analysts/Network Administrators. It will develop your (1) industry connections, (2) soft skills, and (3) resume and LinkedIn profile. You will be 100% job ready.
It is specialized program for those looking to be employed as Information Security Analyst/Network Administrators.
Studies have shown that Information Security Analyst/Network Administrators positions are ranked as the #1 Best Technology jobs in the US. They rank #1 in the 100 Best Overall jobs in the US and #1 as the Best STEM-focused jobs in US.  

Who Should Attend

Each of the three tracks in the Software Development and Network Security Program (SDNSP) is designed to provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and developmental experiences for anyone interested in breaking into this lucrative career opportunity. The Program prepares candidates to succeed on highly-valued, globally-recognized industry standard certifications. The program supports successful candidates in job search and placement with premier global organizations looking to strengthen their software development and cyber-security talent.

Digital Badge and Certificate

Upon successful completion, in addition to being prepared to complete the Cisco certification exam, participants receive a USC Marshall Certificate of Completion, as well as a set of skill-specific digital badges in recognition of the applied knowledge and skills obtained through this program.
TIME REQUIREMENTS
650 Hours of Course Content. Approximately 20-24 hours per week for eight (8) months
COURSE DISCLAIMER
Every reasonable effort will be made to ensure this course runs as described on this web page. Course dates, professors, and/or delivery systems are subject to change. Every effort will be made to notify you by email in advance if there are any changes. This course requires a minimum number of registrants to take place. You will be notified by email if the course does not meet this minimum.

Teaching Methods

Each of the three tracks is delivered virtually through expertly sourced and vetted content. This provides a candidate significant autonomy in selecting their own pace of development. A strong and committed candidate can complete their selected track and sit for the desired certification exam within eight months at the rate of 20-24 hours of work per week.
Educational counseling services are available throughout to assist the motivated candidate to structure and organize their time to completion.