Two students lounging in a common area.

Cybersecurity

A.A.S.
Certificate
High School Option

Be on the Frontlines of Cybersecurity

At South Piedmont, our Cybersecurity programs will prepare you to meet the need for skilled professionals to protect sensitive data and secure networks.

Our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to defend against cyber threats, manage security systems, and ensure the integrity of IT infrastructures.

With hands-on training and industry-relevant skills, you’ll be prepared for a rewarding career in cybersecurity and systems protection.

Plus, you can study with the confidence that our Cybersecurity programs were developed and are constantly being refined with input from regional IT leaders. Get started today!

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The Program Options

2 Years 67 Credit Hours
The Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology (Systems Security Pathway) will immerse you in secure computing practices, networking, and virtualization, framed by essential business considerations. Through hands-on projects, you will refine your Linux administration and Python programming skills while exploring threat detection, secure communications, and incident response. Emphasizing modern security standards, this pathway ensures you are ready to protect and defend digital infrastructures against evolving cyber threats.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
The Ethical Hacking certificate program provides an in-depth introduction to penetration testing and security methodologies, emphasizing how to proactively identify and mitigate system vulnerabilities. You will learn both Python and SQL— key tools for automating tests, retrieving data, and dissecting database structures critical to understanding attack surfaces.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 18 Credit Hours
The Systems Security certificate program will equip you with foundational and advanced knowledge in networking, routing, and security principles. You will delve into in-depth security administration techniques, culminating in an understanding of governance, risk, and compliance requirements.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

None

1 Year 12 Credit Hours
The Systems Security CTE program will introduce you to key cybersecurity principles, starting with foundational Security Concepts and secure communication practices. You will gain hands-on experience in security administration, while exploring regulatory obligations and risk management in Security Compliance.

Mode

Online/in-person

Prerequisites

Unweighted GPA of 2.8

Alignment


Our curriculum is aligned with industry academies, such as Cisco and EC-Council.

Hands-On


You’ll participate in hands-on classes and labs throughout the program.

Real-World


You can gain real-world experience through our Work-Based Learning program.

State-of-the-Art Education

At South Piedmont, you’ll have the unique advantage of studying in state-of-the-art labs, equipped with the latest technology and software used in today’s rapidly evolving tech industry. These hands-on learning environments will allow you to gain practical experience and develop the technical skills that are crucial for success in the field.

Under the guidance of knowledgeable and experienced instructors, you’ll not only learn foundational IT concepts but also receive valuable real-world insights that help bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practices. Our instructors bring years of experience and expertise to the classroom, offering personalized attention and mentorship to ensure that your academic and professional goals will be met.

In addition to our exceptional facilities and experienced faculty, South Piedmont has established strong partnerships with regional IT leaders, creating pathways for you to gain exposure to the industry and build vital professional networks.

Main Building on the OCH campus.
Photo of James Steward, a South Piedmont IT student, standing inside the Tyson Family Center for Technology.

Education You Can Use

I really like the classes and how they’re taught. The instructors give us a lot of good examples. Last week, we were studying data breaches, and we had to study real-life data breaches and discuss why they were bad for people and the economy. We talk about things happening in the real world.

James Steward, South Piedmont IT student

We’ll Help You Get Workforce Ready

Our SP | Career Connector staff members will help you develop your resume, prepare for interviews, and connect with hiring managers.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Get in Touch

We’re excited to talk to you about your future and how we can help you reach your goals. Reach out today!