Introduction to Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op
Cybersecurity applications are becoming increasingly popular among all organisations because of their ability to protect interconnected digital systems from cyber-attacks. It plays an important role in protecting enterprises from unauthorized access to their data centres and other computerized systems. Cybersecurity processes allow enterprises keep up-to-date with the new technologies, security trends and threat intelligence. Pursuing a diploma in cybersecurity co-op programme can give you a sound knowledge base on building secure software systems that can help you get established in the cyber world.
  • This is a full-time program whose total length spans over 51 weeks (including scheduled breaks). The duration for academic training is 24 weeks (in class) that includes 12 weeks of the co-op training period. To qualify as a graduate student, students will have to undergo a minimum of 480 hours of guided learning classes followed by 240 hours of practical training classes.
    • The age of the student should be 18 years or more;
    • They must possess a transcript, diploma or certificate that is equivalent to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD);
    • Non-native English speakers should possess an IELTS score of 5.5 or equivalent;
    • Students must have qualified a Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam.
  • The diploma in cybersecurity specialist co-op syllabus consists of subjects that deal with that theory that is related to practical business situations. The modules of this programme are designed to provide learners with an in-depth knowledge of the key aspects of cybersecurity, such as Blockchain, Big Data and IoT. Students are required to successfully complete and pass in at least 5 of the following modules to be awarded the Diploma:
    • Introduction to Cybersecurity – This module is designed to help students acquire the techniques involved in maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data at a larger scale. Students will get to learn about the principles of cyber-attacks, the Darknet, hackers’ motivations and other advanced technologies.
    • Computer Networks – In this module, students will learn about the interconnection between multiple devices within an organisation, focusing on the basic concepts of data communications, including:
    • The 7 layers model;
    • Working with SERVER 2016;
    • Remote and direct access and VPN.
    • Communications, Operation Systems and Data Management – This unit will assist students to get familiarised with the basic aspects of advanced digital communications, such as:
    • Monitoring and analysing network traffic;
    • Operating systems (focusing on Linux and Windows);
    • Data archives;
    • Management development (focusing on Structured Query Language (SQL) and Mobile-cyber).
    • Programming Languages for Cybersecurity – This module equips students with the necessary skills required to become a cybersecurity expert. Students will get the opportunity to get familiarised with a range of programming languages tools, such as:
    • Web technologies;
    • HTML development;
    • Python code development;
    • Basic programming with Python.
    • Concepts and Practical Implication of Encryption – This unit teaches students about the theoretical methods of securing information, computers, networks and legal issues related to cryptography. It focuses on the cryptography techniques and technology that can help overcome the limitations and problems commonly encountered by the leading digital companies.
    • Information Security in the Cyber World – This section is designed around the key elements of cyber protection technologies weaknesses in information security systems. It will provide students with hands-on training in conducting various types of scans through networks, sites, computers, focusing on vulnerabilities for attacks.
    • Penetration Testing – Through this module, students will gain the ability to identify weak spots in an organisation's security structure, as well as to measure the compliance of its security policy to prevent any crisis occurring during cyber-attacks. Students will get hands-on experience in conducting and building penetration testing infrastructure by employing all the necessary equipment (hardware, software, network infrastructure and tools).
    • Hackathon – The purpose of this unit is to enable students to create a functioning model by employing programming languages, operating system and an application programming interface (API). This covers all the key aspects of managing and synchronizing a multiplayer cyber event (SOC, NOC, ISP and MSSP) using effective communication strategies.
    • Work Placement – This module provides training on placement in appropriate business sectors related to cyber security services.

  • The total academic fees for pursuing this course are $14,495 CAD (INR 11,49,714). The university offers a special promotion for tuition fees, which is of $11,495 CAD (INR 9,11,760) for international students and $4,999 + $500 (material fee) CAD (INR 4,36,169) domestic students.

Why opt for a Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op?

The cybersecurity co-op diploma course provides students with a practical learning experience in tools and techniques that are employed by organisations to secure their cyber network. It can help students determine the processes that are involved in the enhancement of security policies and protocols. This course will further prepare students to manage virtual communication across multiple operating systems. Students will not only gain the ability to detect and remove bugs within computer systems and networks but also respond to security alerts efficiently. 

Who should apply for a Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op?

A diploma in cybersecurity co-op specialist programme is a good fit for anyone who wants to pursue a career in the network cybersecurity field. Students who hold previous IT experience in Windows and networking can obtain this diploma course to advance in the field of cybersecurity management. The hands-on training provided by the course can help students acquire the skills and knowledge that are required to land a lucrative and in-demand job roles in this sector.

Scope and future of Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op

Pursuing the cybersecurity co-op diploma programme will give you the opportunity to combine business skills along with technical skills to apply in state-of-the-art facilities and labs. Students will gain expertise in implementing innovative ways to protect a company’s computer systems and networks. This approach towards innovative thinking can help students achieve industry-oriented certifications and designations, which can help them distinguish their profile when applying for jobs.

Career prospects after pursuing a Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op

Obtaining a diploma in cybersecurity specialist co-op will provide students will the skills required employ appropriate technologies to prevent different types of cyberattacks. After graduating from this programme, students can pursue a wide variety of interesting and rewarding professions in the field of data security. Let us take a look at the different job roles that students can choose to take up after the successful completion of this course.

  • Information Security Analyst – Information security analyst specialises in designing and integrating IT security systems to protect the organisation's computer networks from cyber-attacks. They are primarily responsible monitoring computer networks for security issues, installing security software and documenting every security breaches. They are generally highly-proficient in handling MAC and OS, as well as possess sufficient experience in penetration testing and techniques and understanding of patch management and firewalls, antivirus and IDPS concepts. Besides, they might need to gather feedback from end-users to continue system enhancement and provide objective advice on the use of IT security requirements.

  • Systems Security Analyst – System security analysts specialise in protecting computer assets by establishing and enforcing security system access controls. They work to maintain disaster preparedness for the entire company and establishes system controls by developing a framework for security checks and levels of access. Their day-to-day job responsibilities include:

  • Providing information, resources and technical support;

  • Establishing computer and terminal physical security;

  • Safeguarding computer files by performing regular backups;

  • Developing standards, policies, and procedures by coordinating with facilities security;

  • Investigating improper access, revoking access, reporting violations and monitoring information requests. 

  • Security Administrator – Security administrators are basically the point of contact for cybersecurity systems and are in charge of installing, administering and troubleshooting company’s security solutions. They are responsible for performing vulnerability and networking scanning assessments, monitoring network traffic for unusual activities and providing technical security advice. They specialise in analysing and establishing security requirements for your network by configuring security tools such as firewalls, anti-virus software, patch management systems and more. They also engage in conducting security audits, making policy recommendations and training fellow employees on security awareness and procedures, on regular basis.

  • Cryptographer – Cryptographers specialise in encrypting and decrypting the information and engage in the protection of confidential information. They work to protect military, financial or political data and are proficient in writing algorithms designed to mask information, such as account and credit card numbers and wireless networks. They are typically hired by law enforcement or government agencies to solving crime, threats and security concerns by analysing and deciphering encrypted data. They are proficient in developing computational models that can be employed to protect computers and networks of any organisation from hackers and cyber-terrorists.

Obtaining a cybersecurity co-op diploma can help you become a cybersecurity professional, where you can assist organisations in the search for vulnerabilities and risks in hardware and software.