Cybersecurity professionals must be skilled data analysts. They review complex security architecture and design diagrams detailing ports and protocols, and they conduct and analyze vulnerability scans. They must also constantly learn to keep up with new threats and how to stop them.
Three reasons to consider this program.
The cyber defense job market is growing and offers good salaries.
Students can earn valuable industry certifications as they pursue their degree.
Students can participate in a paid internship program with an area tech company.
Before you sign up, make sure you understand...
This is a two-year A.A.S. career program. If you want to transfer to a university, enroll in an A.A. or A.S. program.
The college has a computer science certificate program, which takes less time. Starting salaries in the certificate program tend to be lower.
Cyber defense professionals often work in teams. Speech and English courses can improve your communication skills.
Fundamentals of CommunicationFundamentals of Communication
CITC 1321
A+ HardwareA+ Hardware
CITC 2352
Digital ForensicsDigital Forensics
BIOL 1510
Environmental ScienceEnvironmental Science
SOCI 1010
Introduction to SociologyIntroduction to Sociology
Courses Required for 2nd Spring Term
Course Number
Course Title and Type
CITC 2356
Penetration Testing and Network DefensePenetration Testing and Network Defen…
CITC 1311
Programming IIProgramming II
CITC 2399
Co-op/InternshipCo-op/Internship
WEBT 2300
Client Side ProgrammingClient Side Programming
PHIL 1040
Introduction to EthicsIntroduction to Ethics
1st Fall
1st Spring
2nd Fall
2nd Spring
Important Dates and Events
Oct in 1st Fall
Oct
See advisor
FASFA
Nov in 1st Fall
Nov
Register
Mar in 1st Spring
Mar
See advisor
Apr in 1st Spring
Apr
Register
Sept in 2nd Fall
Sept
Application for Graduation
Oct in 2nd Fall
Oct
See advisor
Nov in 2nd Fall
Nov
Register
Feb in 2nd Spring
Feb
Exit Exam
Mar in 2nd Spring
Mar
Job search
Notes and Map Legend
Key Course: program faculty have identified this course as key to your success
Recommended Elective: check catalog for other acceptable courses
This map assumes completion of course prerequisites
*Tennessee Department of Labor
**Average of 2019 - 2021 graduates
Notes and Map Legend
Key Course: program faculty have identified this course as key to your success
Recommended Elective: check catalog for other acceptable courses
This map assumes completion of course prerequisites
*Tennessee Department of Labor
**Average of 2019 - 2021 graduates
Roane State’s cyber defense concentration within the two-year computer information technology (CITC) program teaches you how to fortify computer networks in order to prevent security breaches from cyber terrorists or other intruders. In addition, you will:
Learn how to recover data using digital forensics techniques.
Develop strong critical thinking skills.
Practice in a hands-on lab environment.
Gain real-world experience through internships.
Because computer information technology is a Roane State Technology Plus program, students also:
Learn high-tech skills as they earn their degrees.
Plus, learn communication skills and teamwork skills employers want.
Plus, earn industry certifications valued by employers.
Plus, intern with companies and receive help with job placement.
Roane State Community College has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education through academic year 2025 for the Associate of Applied Science Computer Information Technology - Cyber Defense
Certifications
Roane State embeds key industry certifications within the degree program, ensuring students maximize the value of their education and leave Roane State with skills tech companies want.
Certifications include:
Roane State’s Computer Information Technology (CITC) program is a CompTIA authorized academy partner, which means the college may host certification testing in A+, Net+, Security+, and Ethical Hacking.
Skills
With a CITC degree (cyber defense concentration), you will be able to:
Provide infrastructure, application, information, and operational security.
Perform computer forensics analysis and validation.
Design and configure firewalls.
Configure and implement intrusion detection systems.
Internships
As part of the program, you will participate in a paid internship program with an area tech company. The internship will give you the opportunity to gain on-the-job experience, apply what you have learned in your classes, meet potential employers, and have a leg up in your first job search. Companies offering internships to Roane State CITC students include:
Roane State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulation and by Tennessee board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities. View full non-discrimination policy.
Key Course: program faculty have identified this course as key to your success
