BS in Information Technology (BSIT): Cybersecurity Emphasis

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Online

Area of Study

Technology

Program

BS in Information Technology: Cybersecurity

Current Education Level

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Citizenship Status

U.S. Citizen

Military Affiliation

No military affiliation

Country

United States

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Overview

Study Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity program from Grand Canyon University can prepare you for careers working with computer-based information systems. Graduates will be taught to work with software applications and computer hardware to study, design, develop and support how information is shared, saved and used within an organization. If you are interested in user and data security an emphasis in cybersecurity may be a good choice. Acquiring skills in both IT and cybersecurity allows graduates from this program to support and design systems that are safe from cyberattacks.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity

Offered By

College of Engineering and Technology

Class Settings

Campus

Online

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Online: $485 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

What To Expect in the BSIT: Cybersecurity Emphasis at GCU

This bachelor’s degree with a cybersecurity emphasis can prepare you to work in the growing information technology field. The advantages of this degree program lie in the opportunity to gain extensive knowledge and skills in both IT and cybersecurity, which has the potential to open up a wide range of potential career paths.

If you have worked in law enforcement or are a military veteran, this degree may be appealing to you. You already have the mindset to search for potential threats and you may already have government clearance that may assist you in gaining employment opportunities upon graduation. Any student entering this BSIT with an emphasis in cybersecurity program should be comfortable with basic algebra skills and be proficient in using common desktop computer applications.

Learn more about our accreditation and the CAE-CD designation for this BS in IT: Cybersecurity emphasis.

Pursuing Your Bachelor’s Degree in IT Online

This BSIT program at GCU is offered both on campus and online. The two different modalities can provide a flexible and convenient way to work toward advancing your education. Through online learning platforms, you can access coursework and engage with knowledgeable faculty members from the comfort of your own home. By choosing the online format, you have the freedom to study at your own pace while balancing other commitments. Whether you're a working professional or a busy student, earning your bachelor’s degree in IT online provides an accessible pathway to enhance your expertise in the field.

BSIT Core Degree

BS in Information Technology

Coursework

Information Technology Courses

The IT portion of the degree program emphasizes not only the technology, but the business aspects of IT work. The cybersecurity emphasis program focuses on some of the core competencies of IT-driven business, software technology and tools, enterprise information systems and cybersecurity. Students are taught:

Ways IT can improve business performance
Steps to take to boost organizational efficiency
Practices that reduce costs of enterprise systems
Skills to apply technology solutions
Usage of local and cloud-based programs to enhance the deployment, configuration and management of technologies

The bachelor’s degree in information technology: cybersecurity emphasis coursework ends with a security capstone IT project. You will be required to demonstrate practical knowledge as well as technical writing and business presentation skills. The capstone is typically completed as a team and include:

Developing a project proposal
Conducting a feasibility study
Protecting intellectual property
Creating a project budget and schedule

Take Relevant Courses Focused on IT and Cybersecurity Concepts

Those pursuing this degree have the opportunity to receive a well-rounded experience in both cybersecurity and IT. The coursework is made up of both lectures and labs to ensure that theoretical knowledge guides practice application.

Some areas of study include:

Platform technologies

Networking

Information assurance

IT security and management

Programming fundamentals

Cloud computing

Web systems and technologies

Professional and ethical practices in IT

Course topics include:

Cloud computing
Planning and implementation of IT systems
Information technology project management
Object-related databases
Virtual enterprise and datacenter infrastructure
Computer security, ethical hacking and cyber forensics investigations

You may also take part in the Cyber Center of Excellence, a learning environment led by faculty that develops skills and knowledge in cybersecurity through research, exercises and hands-on training.

Skills Acquired in the BSIT: Cybersecurity Emphasis Program

This bachelor’s in IT: cybersecurity emphasis from GCU teaches graduates how cyberdefense, cyber operations and cyberlaw are interrelated. Focus is placed on teaching processes and goals in cyber forensics and acquiring practical application in developing plans for security architectures. Cybersecurity students will practice problem solving skills using technology and computer programming, while utilizing hands-on activities to ensure students have the proper training to excel in the cybersecurity workforce.

This on-campus and online degree with cybersecurity emphasis offers courses focused on the following skills:

Cyber operations planning and execution
Cybercrime
Cyberlaw
Digital forensic investigations
Security architecture
Secure system administration

Careers

Careers for BSIT: Cybersecurity Emphasis Graduates

Graduates from this program are taught the skills needed to pursue a career in information systems. Students who complete this program may have opportunities to work as:

Information security analysts
Computer network architects
Computer and information systems managers
Software quality assurance analysts and testers

With the emphasis in cybersecurity, you can position yourself for a possible career as an information security analyst. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for information security analysts is on track to grow by an estimated 32% from 2022 to 2032, accounting for an estimated increase of 53,200 jobs in the field.¹

$120,360

Median annual wage for information security analysts as of May 2023²

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Delve into the world of IT cybersecurity within the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program by exploring our comprehensive frequently asked questions.

Most cybersecurity jobs require a four-year bachelor’s degree in information technology, cybersecurity or a related computer-science field.³ To specialize in cybersecurity or to pursue a higher-level cybersecurity position, many companies may recommend specific credentials, certifications or a master’s degree.⁴ A few graduate degree options may include an MBA in Cybersecurity, an MS in Cybersecurity or an MS in Cybersecurity Management.

For those who are looking to get into the cybersecurity field but are unable to commit to a full bachelor’s degree program, consider earning an undergraduate certificate in cybersecurity. This certificate program provides foundational knowledge and skills to help prepare you for an entry-level cybersecurity career.

There are many different types of careers in the information technology field and IT cybersecurity industry. One career option that combines IT and cybersecurity is an information security analyst. As of May 2023, information security analysts have a median annual wage of $120,360.²

A bachelor’s degree in IT: cybersecurity emphasis is likely to be challenging. Cybersecurity is a complex field that requires a solid understanding of computer systems, networking, programming and information security principles. With the cybersecurity landscape constantly evolving and new threats and technologies emerging regularly, this may add an extra layer of complexity to the program. You will need to stay up to date with the latest trends, vulnerabilities and defensive techniques. While it is considered a challenging program, the level of difficulty can vary from person to person. Some students may find it easier if they have prior experience or a strong background in computer science or information technology, while others may need to invest more time and effort to grasp the concepts.

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major68 credits

Open Elective Credits12-18 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

ITT-111

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the role of computing technology within business and corporate environments. Introductions to concepts, terminologies, and a wide use of relevant daily software and tools relevant to any career in the information technology field. Topics include: Technology-integrated academics, digital networking concepts, systems administration and maintenance, information security, database and transactional systems, cloud technologies, scripting, and project management.

ITT-116

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course exposes students to the fundamentals of networks and networking in IT. It then builds deeper understanding of how networks work, including the topics of LANs, WANs, service providers, packets, hubs, routers, switches, and internet protocols. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on setting up and configuring local and enterprise networks, experimenting with various topologies, and scalability planning with switches and routers.

ITT-121

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to system administration and maintenance as well as platform technologies. The course surveys operating systems, applications, administrative activities and domains, computer architecture and organization, and computing infrastructures. The laboratory reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture. Hands-on activities focus on developing practical skills in configuring computer systems, deploying enterprise applications, managing user permissions, and remote administration. Prerequisite: ITT-116.

ITT-216

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course focuses on advanced router and switch configuration for use in large and enterprise networks. Topics include dynamic routing, network security and access control, network address translation, wide area network implementations, virtualization, management, design, troubleshooting and automation. Implementation and troubleshooting of advanced routing technologies and services including Layer 3 VPN, Infrastructure security, and infrastructure services. Prerequisites: ITT-111 and ITT-116.

ITT-307

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course builds upon knowledge already acquired in the areas of system architecture and operating systems and focuses on the core issues of information security. Students learn fundamental concepts of information security including data encryption, security awareness, legal and ethical issues, operational issues, security policies, and attack types; while expanding on the coverage to include security domains, forensics, security services, threat analysis, and vulnerabilities assessments. Prerequisite: ITT-120, or ITT-121 or CST-125 or CST-126 or CST-220 or CST-221.

SYM-400

4 Total Credits

ITT-221

4 Total Credits

ITT-316

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course merges the advanced corporate infrastructure skills with emerging technologies that streamline how computing and network resources are accessed and utilized. Concepts in this course include wireless and mobile networking, telephone, Internet of Things (IOT), and the infrastructures required to build and maintain elastic systems and communications availability. Prerequisite: ITT-216.

ITT-340

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers mathematical models for computer security. It analyzes and compares the properties of various models for hardware, software, and database security. The course examines how system designs, network protocols, and software engineering practices can result in vulnerabilities. Students learn to design, evaluate, ethically hack, and implement adequate security measures that can safeguard sensitive information. Prerequisite: ITT-307.

ITT-321

4 Total Credits

BIT-415

4 Total Credits

ITT-430

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the design, management, and maintenance of virtual enterprise and datacenter infrastructure. Students learn to use appropriate tools such as request tracking, monitoring, configuration management, virtualization, and scripting to administer and defend systems using documented, repeatable processes. Emphasis will be placed on volume management, directory services, and network-based authentication and file systems. Students develop automatic procedures for installations and file distribution. Prerequisites: MAT-154 and ITT-307.

ITT-375

4 Total Credits

SYM-408

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course covers the characteristics of object-relational and NoSQL databases and their application in business. The course also focuses on the main principles of object-oriented, object-relational, and NoSQL databases, and their relative advantages. Students gain working knowledge of object-relational features as implemented in standard SQL database management systems. Students also learn to manage unstructured and semi-structured data with XML. Prerequisite: SYM-400.

ITT-490

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students apply the knowledge and skills used in previous courses to develop an IT Project proposal required for new innovative process. The course builds on the knowledge gathered during student’s journey through IT program. It gives them the ability to work on an emerging IT project while gathering very practical experience. This involves critiquing the current scope of IT and use a practical research approach to construct the project proposal. The students will be required to develop project components such as vision, budget, risk management, and timeline. Project teams will be assigned and throughout the semester, these teams present ideas to both peers and the instructor, who provide feedback and insight into what it takes build a successful project. Students will be required to work on a complex and real-life problem related to IT studies. In doing so, the Capstone makes the link between the academic discourse and the world thereafter. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: ITT-430 or ITT-415.

ITT-425

4 Total Credits

STG-390

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course provides an insight into professional communications and conduct associated with careers in science, engineering and technology. Students learn about the changing modes of communication in these disciplines recognizing the advances in digital communications. They gain practical experience developing and supporting a thesis or position through written, oral, and visual presentations prepared and delivered individually and in groups. Students will explore concepts and issues in professional ethics and conduct such as privacy, discrimination, workplace etiquette, cyber-ethics, network and data security, identity theft, ownership rights and intellectual property.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Start Your Journey Today

If you are passionate about technology and want to make a difference in how data is stored and shared in an organization, a bachelor’s degree in IT online or on campus with an emphasis in cybersecurity may be the right choice for you.

Apply Now

COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Information Security Analysts, retrieved on May 3, 2024.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Information Security Analysts, as of May 2023, retrieved on May 3, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as information security analysts, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022, Sept. 8). Information Security Analysts: How to Become One. Retrieved on June 27, 2023.
Lake, Sydney (2022, July 22). What You Need to Land a Six-Figure Cybersecurity Job. Fortune Education. Retrieved on June 27, 2023.

BS in Information Technology (BSIT): Cybersecurity Emphasis

Study Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts

What To Expect in the BSIT: Cybersecurity Emphasis at GCU

Pursuing Your Bachelor’s Degree in IT Online

Information Technology Courses