Cybersecurity offers many different career opportunities, from defending networks to shaping policy. This guide connects 惇蹋圖 courses with common career roles in the commercial sector, helping you see how classroom learning links to real-world opportunities. These pathways are suggestions, not requirementsyou can combine courses, internships, and experiences to create your own unique journey into cybersecurity.
These suggested pathways are designed to help students identify 惇蹋圖 courses that align with common cybersecurity career roles in the commercial sector. They are intended as guidance, not prescriptionstudents may choose alternate combinations of courses, certifications, and experiences to reach similar goals. Its recommended that students review these pathways with their academic advisor to plan individualized progression through the program.
These pathways provide structured guidance for students exploring diverse cybersecurity roles in the commercial sector. Students may use these recommendations to select electives that align with their career interests and build targeted competencies in preparation for internships, certifications, or advanced studies.
Core Cybersecurity Courses
The following are core required cybersecurity classes all students must complete regardless of their chosen path.
| Course Code | Course Title | Description |
| CYSE 200T | Cybersecurity, Technology, and Society | Foundational overview of cybersecurity principles and societal impacts. |
| CYSE 201S | Cybersecurity and the Social Sciences | Examines human factors and behavioral aspects of cybersecurity. |
| CYSE 250 | Basic Cybersecurity Programming and Networking | Introduces basic programming and network security concepts. |
| CYSE 300 | Introduction to Cybersecurity | Builds upon core principles and introduces systems security. |
| CYSE 301 | Cybersecurity Techniques and Operations | Explores operational security and applied defensive methods. |
| CYSE 406 | Cyber Law | Covers laws, regulations, and ethics in cybersecurity practice. |
| CYSE 425W | Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy | Focuses on strategic and policy-level decision-making in cybersecurity. |
| CS 462 | Cybersecurity Fundamentals | Introduction to networking and the Internet protocol stack. |
Career Pathways
Cyber Defense Analyst
Description: Detects, analyzes, and mitigates cyber threats to safeguard systems and data within organizations. Often part of a Security Operations Center (SOC).
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH Sectors: Government, Finance, Technology
Digital Forensics Analyst
Description: Investigates and analyzes digital evidence from computers, networks, and mobile devices to uncover cybercrime and security incidents.
Suggested Courses:
- - Digital Forensics
- - Crime and Computer Applications
- - Law and Digital Forensics
Relevant Certifications: GCFA, CHFI
Sectors: Law Enforcement, Government, Consulting
Network Security Administrator
Description: Configures, manages, and monitors network systems to ensure security, reliability, and performance.
Suggested Courses:
- - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- - Windows System Management and Security
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: Network+, Security+, CCNA Sectors: Corporate IT, Education, Healthcare
Cyber Risk Analyst
Description: Evaluates and manages risks, threats, and vulnerabilities to safeguard information systems and ensure organizational resilience.
Suggested Courses:
- - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Cyber Risk CSF/CMMC
Relevant Certifications: CRISC, CISM, NIST RMF Sectors: Finance, Government, Enterprise IT
Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
Description: Identifies and exploits vulnerabilities in systems to strengthen security through controlled attacks and simulations.
Suggested Courses:
- - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- - Windows Systems Management and Security
- CYSE 301 -Cyber Techniques and Operation
- - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CEH, OSCP Sectors: Consulting, Defense, Technology
Cyber Policy Analyst
Description: Develops and evaluates cybersecurity policies, strategies, and regulations to address organizational, national, or international challenges.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, CAP
Sectors: Public Policy, Government, Research
Incident Responder
Description: Detects, manages, and mitigates cybersecurity incidents, working to restore secure operations quickly after attacks.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Digital Forensics
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: GCIH, Security+ Sectors: Government, Healthcare, Technology
Information Security Specialist
Description: Protects data, systems, and networks by implementing security measures and continuously monitoring threats.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- - Law and Digital Forensics
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, Security+ Sectors: Enterprise IT, Banking, Education
Cyber Intelligence Analyst
Description: Gathers, analyzes, and interprets threat data to provide actionable insights for proactive defense.
Suggested Courses:
- - Digital Forensics
- - Crime and Computer Applications
- - Cyber War
Relevant Certifications: GCTI, CTIA
Sectors: Intelligence, Military, Private Sector Threat Intel
Cybersecurity Researcher
Description: Explores emerging technologies, analyzes trends, and develops innovative solutions to address complex cyber threats.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Applied Machine Learning in Cybersecurity
- - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: None required; research or graduate study recommended Sectors: Academia, R&D, Industry Labs
Cyber Defense Analyst (Entry-Level)
Description: Utilizes data from multiple cyber defense tools to detect, analyze, and mitigate threats within network environments. Often serves in a Security Operations Center (SOC) or defensive mission environment.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 202G - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH
Cyber Defense Incident Responder (Intermediate)
Description: Investigates and responds to cybersecurity incidents, conducting forensic analysis to identify vulnerabilities and improve defensive measures.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: GCIH, CEH
Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst (Intermediate)
Description: Analyzes digital evidence and investigates computer security incidents to derive insights that support network vulnerability mitigation and legal processes.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 404 - Law and Digital Forensics
- CYSE 409 - Crime and Computer Applications
Relevant Certifications: GCFA, CHFI
Security Architect (Advanced)
Description: Designs and implements secure systems and networks ensuring they meet organizational and federal security requirements.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 430 - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 432 - Cyber Risk CSF/CMMC
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, CISM
System Administrator (Entry-Level)
Description: Manages system and server resources including performance, capacity, availability, and recoverability in compliance with DoD security baselines.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 270 - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 280 - Windows System Management and Security
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Server+, Network+
Network Operations Specialist (Entry-Level)
Description: Plans, implements, and operates network services and systems, maintaining optimal performance and security within defense infrastructures.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 270 - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 280 - Windows Systems Management and Security
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CCNA, Security+
Cyber Legal Advisor (Advanced)
Description: Provides legal analysis and advice on cybersecurity-related issues within government and defense sectors.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 404 - Law and Digital Forensics
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: JD or LLM (Cybersecurity Law)
Cyber Policy and Strategy Planner (Advanced)
Description: Develops and implements cyberspace strategies, policies, and guidance supporting national or defense missions.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 202G - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CISSP-ISSMP, CAP
Cyber Instructor (Intermediate)
Description: Develops and delivers cyber education or training programs for workforce and academic audiences.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 417 - Digital Leadership
- CYSE 494 - Entrepreneurship in Cybersecurity
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA CTT+, CISSP
Data Analyst (Entry-Level)
Description: Analyzes, interprets, and visualizes cybersecurity data to support operational decision-making and situational awareness in federal environments.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 420 - Applied Machine Learning in Cybersecurity
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 409 - Crime and Computer Applications
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Data+, CDP
Cyber Defense Analyst
Description: Detects, analyzes, and mitigates cyber threats to safeguard systems and data within organizations. Often part of a Security Operations Center (SOC).
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH Sectors: Government, Finance, Technology
Digital Forensics Analyst
Description: Investigates and analyzes digital evidence from computers, networks, and mobile devices to uncover cybercrime and security incidents.
Suggested Courses:
- - Digital Forensics
- - Crime and Computer Applications
- - Law and Digital Forensics
Relevant Certifications: GCFA, CHFI
Sectors: Law Enforcement, Government, Consulting
Network Security Administrator
Description: Configures, manages, and monitors network systems to ensure security, reliability, and performance.
Suggested Courses:
- - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- - Windows System Management and Security
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: Network+, Security+, CCNA Sectors: Corporate IT, Education, Healthcare
Cyber Risk Analyst
Description: Evaluates and manages risks, threats, and vulnerabilities to safeguard information systems and ensure organizational resilience.
Suggested Courses:
- - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Cyber Risk CSF/CMMC
Relevant Certifications: CRISC, CISM, NIST RMF Sectors: Finance, Government, Enterprise IT
Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
Description: Identifies and exploits vulnerabilities in systems to strengthen security through controlled attacks and simulations.
Suggested Courses:
- - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- - Windows Systems Management and Security
- CYSE 301 -Cyber Techniques and Operation
- - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CEH, OSCP Sectors: Consulting, Defense, Technology
Cyber Policy Analyst
Description: Develops and evaluates cybersecurity policies, strategies, and regulations to address organizational, national, or international challenges.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, CAP
Sectors: Public Policy, Government, Research
Incident Responder
Description: Detects, manages, and mitigates cybersecurity incidents, working to restore secure operations quickly after attacks.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Digital Forensics
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: GCIH, Security+ Sectors: Government, Healthcare, Technology
Information Security Specialist
Description: Protects data, systems, and networks by implementing security measures and continuously monitoring threats.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- - Law and Digital Forensics
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, Security+ Sectors: Enterprise IT, Banking, Education
Cyber Intelligence Analyst
Description: Gathers, analyzes, and interprets threat data to provide actionable insights for proactive defense.
Suggested Courses:
- - Digital Forensics
- - Crime and Computer Applications
- - Cyber War
Relevant Certifications: GCTI, CTIA
Sectors: Intelligence, Military, Private Sector Threat Intel
Cybersecurity Researcher
Description: Explores emerging technologies, analyzes trends, and develops innovative solutions to address complex cyber threats.
Suggested Courses:
- - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- - Applied Machine Learning in Cybersecurity
- - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: None required; research or graduate study recommended Sectors: Academia, R&D, Industry Labs
Cyber Defense Analyst (Entry-Level)
Description: Utilizes data from multiple cyber defense tools to detect, analyze, and mitigate threats within network environments. Often serves in a Security Operations Center (SOC) or defensive mission environment.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 202G - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Security+, CEH
Cyber Defense Incident Responder (Intermediate)
Description: Investigates and responds to cybersecurity incidents, conducting forensic analysis to identify vulnerabilities and improve defensive measures.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: GCIH, CEH
Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst (Intermediate)
Description: Analyzes digital evidence and investigates computer security incidents to derive insights that support network vulnerability mitigation and legal processes.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 404 - Law and Digital Forensics
- CYSE 409 - Crime and Computer Applications
Relevant Certifications: GCFA, CHFI
Security Architect (Advanced)
Description: Designs and implements secure systems and networks ensuring they meet organizational and federal security requirements.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 430 - Introduction to Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 432 - Cyber Risk CSF/CMMC
Relevant Certifications: CISSP, CISM
System Administrator (Entry-Level)
Description: Manages system and server resources including performance, capacity, availability, and recoverability in compliance with DoD security baselines.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 270 - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 280 - Windows System Management and Security
- CYSE 416 - Cyber Defense Fundamentals
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Server+, Network+
Network Operations Specialist (Entry-Level)
Description: Plans, implements, and operates network services and systems, maintaining optimal performance and security within defense infrastructures.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 270 - Linux System for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 280 - Windows Systems Management and Security
- CYSE 450 - Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Relevant Certifications: CCNA, Security+
Cyber Legal Advisor (Advanced)
Description: Provides legal analysis and advice on cybersecurity-related issues within government and defense sectors.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 404 - Law and Digital Forensics
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: JD or LLM (Cybersecurity Law)
Cyber Policy and Strategy Planner (Advanced)
Description: Develops and implements cyberspace strategies, policies, and guidance supporting national or defense missions.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 202G - Information Literacy for Cybersecurity
- CYSE 431 - Advanced Techniques in Cybersecurity Risk Management
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CISSP-ISSMP, CAP
Cyber Instructor (Intermediate)
Description: Develops and delivers cyber education or training programs for workforce and academic audiences.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 417 - Digital Leadership
- CYSE 494 - Entrepreneurship in Cybersecurity
- CYSE 495 - Topics in Cybersecurity
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA CTT+, CISSP
Data Analyst (Entry-Level)
Description: Analyzes, interprets, and visualizes cybersecurity data to support operational decision-making and situational awareness in federal environments.
Suggested Courses:
- CYSE 420 - Applied Machine Learning in Cybersecurity
- CYSE 407 - Digital Forensics
- CYSE 409 - Crime and Computer Applications
Relevant Certifications: CompTIA Data+, CDP