Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT): Cybersecurity Emphasis
Study Advanced Cybersecurity Concepts With the BS in Information Technology: Cybersecurity Emphasis
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity program from Grand Canyon University (GCU) 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.
The BSIT: Cybersecurity Emphasis Program 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.
Loading Form
Information Technology Skills You’ll Study
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
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
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 cyber defense, cyber operations and cyber law 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
- Cyber law
- Digital forensic investigations
- Security architecture
- Information assurance
- Secure system administration
Careers for Graduates With a Bachelor’s in Information Technology: Cybersecurity Emphasis
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 35% from 2021 to 2031, accounting for an estimated increase of 56,500 jobs in the field.1
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT): Cybersecurity Emphasis FAQs
Delve into the world of IT cybersecurity within the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program by exploring our comprehensive frequently asked questions. These are designed to address common questions and help you make an informed decision about this specialized emphasis.
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 Information Assurance and Cybersecurity.
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 great career option that combines IT and cybersecurity is an information security analyst. As of May 2021, information security analysts have a median annual wage of $102,600.2
This degree requires a total of 120 credits for completion. Most of the classes are 15 weeks in length. If you are participating in the online program, the courses are generally seven weeks long. However, most undergraduate degrees are flexible and can be completed at your own pace. Fill out the form on this page to speak to a university counselor to better understand how long it takes to earn your bachelor’s degree with a IT cybersecurity emphasis.
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.
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.
1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as well. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2022, 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 July 27.
2 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Information Security Analysts as of May 2021, retrieved on June 27, 2023. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 and 2021 may be atypical compared to prior years. The pandemic may also impact the predicted future workforce outcomes indicated by the BLS. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers from across the country with varying levels of education and experience and does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as information security analysts. It does not reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country. It also does not reflect 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. You may also wish to compare median salaries if you are considering more than one career path. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, and accept employment from, determines salary not only based on education, but also individual characteristics and skills and fit to that organization (among other categories) against a pool of candidates.
3 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022, Sept. 8). Information Security Analysts: How to Become One. Retrieved on June 27, 2023.
4 Lake, Sydney (2022, July 22). What you need to land a six-figure cybersecurity job. Fortune Education. Retrieved on June 27, 2023.
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.
Requirements
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.
Course Options
- UNV-112, Success in Science, Engineering and Technology & Lab: 4
- UNV-103, University Success: 4
- UNV-303, University Success: 4
- UNV-108, University Success in the College of Education: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to construct rhetorically effective communications appropriate to diverse audiences, purposes, and occasions (English composition, communication, critical reading, foreign language, sign language, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of English grammar or composition.
Course Options
- UNV-104, 21st Century Skills: Communication and Information Literacy: 4
- ENG-105, English Composition I: 4
- ENG-106, English Composition II: 4
Requirements
Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to express aspects of Christian heritage and worldview. Students are required to take CWV-101/CWV-301.
Course Options
- CWV-101, Christian Worldview: 4
- CWV-301, Christian Worldview: 4
Requirements
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.
Course Options
- MAT-154, Applications of College Algebra: 4
- MAT-144, College Mathematics: 4
- PHI-105, 21st Century Skills: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: 4
- BIO-220, Environmental Science: 4
Requirements
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.
Course Options
- HIS-144, U.S. History Themes: 4
- PSY-102, General Psychology: 4
- SOC-100, Everyday Sociology: 4
Core Courses
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. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or MAT-261.
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 routers and switches. Prerequisite: CST-111 or ITT-111 or CST-105 or acceptance into the bootcamp program.
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.
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. Prerequisite: ITT-116.
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 or acceptance into the bootcamp program.
Course Description
This course examines the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of relational database structures. Emphasis is on appropriate application and implementation. Prerequisite: BIT-200 or BIT-205 or CST-110, or CST-111 or CST-105 or ITT-111.
Course Description
This course is focused on Linux server administration and maintenance within a corporate networking context. In addition to server installation, students will learn configuration and troubleshooting along with a variety of command-line and Graphical User Interface utilities and applications. Prerequisite: ITT-121.
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.
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.
Course Description
This course is focused on enterprise cloud computing solutions, including migrations strategies for applications, strategies, workflows, and systems. Students develop the skills necessary to analyze, recommend, and implement multiple-vendor cloud solutions. Prerequisite: ITT-221.
Course Description
This course examines various areas of information technology project management. Traditional and agile project management topics are covered with specific focus on information technology projects. A project management software scheduling tool is also used in the course. Prerequisite: BIT-200, BIT-205, CST-111 or ITT-111.
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.
Course Description
This course covers the processes and goals of cyber forensics investigations. Hands-on activities include using multiple reporting systems to initiate and provide on-going support for information security investigations relating to data privacy, incident management, data loss prevention, and digital forensics. Prerequisite: ITT-307.
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.
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.
Course Description
This course covers strategies and plans for development and operation of the Security Operations Center (SOC). Students gain the knowledge and skills to use technologies to detect and prevent network intrusion and implement cybersecurity countermeasures. Prerequisites: ITT-340 and ITT-375.
Course Description
This 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. This is a writing intensive course.
Join Grand Canyon University’s vibrant and growing campus community, with daytime classes designed for traditional students. Immerse yourself in a full undergraduate experience, complete with curriculum designed within the context of our Christian worldview.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.
* 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.