Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op
About this Program
Businesses, agencies and individuals require the services of the best cybersecurity experts to design solutions, perform penetration tests and ensure the overall security of the digital infrastructure of their business operations. This one-year, co-op program is ideal for those looking to become familiar with all aspects of cybersecurity, such as blockchain, big data and the IoT (Internet of Things). Your co-op work placement will help you advance your career goals and explore employment opportunities such as an IT analyst, information technology security specialist or cybersecurity specialist.
Program Overview
- Term 1
- Term 2
- Term 3
Overview of Term 1
Introduction to Cybersecurity - 60h
This module is designed to provide you with basic knowledge of the cyber world. The module will enable you to understand the darknet, hackers' motivations, the principles of cyber attacks, and various advanced technologies.
Computer Networks - 60h
This unit will review the structure of the personal computer, basic concepts in data communications, the 7 layers model, working with server software, remote and direct access, and VPNs.
Communications, Operation Systems and Data Management - 60h
This unit focuses on advanced computer communication topics such as monitoring and analyzing network traffic, operating systems (with emphasis on Linux and Windows) and data archives management and development (including Structured Query Language (SQL) and Mobile-cyber).
Programming Languages for Cybersecurity - 60h
This unit will include web technologies, basic HTML development, and basic programming with python.
Overview of Term 2
Concepts and Practical Implication of Encryption - 60h
This module will focus on the technology of cryptography and the available techniques, limitations and common problems. It covers the theory and application of methods available to secure information, computers and networks. It will also explore legal issues involved with cryptography.
Information Security in the Cyber World - 60h
In this module, you will become familiar with scanning networks, sites and computers for vulnerabilities and attacks. This module will also cover weaknesses in information security (hardware, software, and infrastructure) and data and cyber protection technologies, tools and leading companies.
Penetration Testing - 60h
This module is designed to provide you with basic skills to conduct and build penetration testing infrastructure that includes all the hardware, software, network infrastructure, and tools needed to conduct a penetration test.
Hackathon - 60h
This module will cover tactics for managing and synchronizing a multiplayer cyber event: SOC, NOC, ISP, MSSP, and communication strategies as a tool to manage and prevent a crisis during cyber-attacks.
Overview of Term 3
Work Placement
At the conclusion of the program, you are required to complete 240 hours of work placement in a suitable business environment. Appropriate business sectors for placement would include IT services, insurance, finance, accounting, not-for-profit and administration. Activities performed will vary depending on the work placement site. Key responsibilities include observing all workplace and school safety and security procedures, dressing appropriately for the placement experience, interacting with the placement staff respectfully, learning about the work environment, and participating in daily tasks as required. You will also be supervised by a placement host.
Skills and Competencies
Throughout this Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op Program in Toronto, you will develop the following skills and competencies:
- Learn to use tools such as Wireshark.
- Learn Python programming language, SQL, Hyper-V
,and mobile simulators/emulators to perform cybersecurity lab experiments. - Assess risks to improve the security posture of an organization.
- Respond to security alerts and fix flaws in computer systems and networks.
- Utilize technologies to prevent cyber-attacks.
- Gain real-world work experience.
Career Outlook
According to Mordor Intelligence, the Canadian cybersecurity market is expected to grow 12.8 percent from 2022 to 2027, leading to more job opportunities for those graduating from cybersecurity specialist programs. These opportunities are compounded by the cyber security Toronto-Waterloo corridor, the biggest tech cluster outside of Silicon Valley, and the need for cybersecurity experts in businesses and government institutions of all sizes. Upon successful completion of the Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op Diploma Program, you can enter this thriving marketing in one of the following roles:
- Informatics security analyst
- Systems security analyst
- IT analyst
- Information technology (IT) security specialist
- Cybersecurity specialist