Cybersecurity Operations

Shield networks and secure futures with a degree in Cybersecurity Operations.

The Associate in Science (AS) in Cybersecurity Operations prepares students for further education and careers such as network defense analyst, network defense technician, cybersecurity analyst, or network security operator.

A man in a light blue hoodie and camouflage cap sits at a desk with two computer monitors displaying code and a browser, illuminated by blue backlighting, while another person works behind him in a dimly lit room with wall-mounted screens showing maps and data visualizations.

A man in a light blue hoodie and camouflage cap sits at a desk with two computer monitors displaying code and a browser, illuminated by blue backlighting, while another person works behind him in a dimly lit room with wall-mounted screens showing maps and data visualizations.
A dimly lit workspace features several individuals at computer stations with glowing keyboards. A large screen displays a world map with the word FORENSIC. Monitors show code windows against dark desktops. Blue ambient light illuminates black server racks in the background while another person holds up a phone on the far right.
A portrait of a student typing at a computer in a dark room with blue lighting. The desk holds two monitors, one displaying the PERIMETER logo and a world map. Large screens on the wall show code, network data including Microsoft Windows RPC, and the text COMING SOON. Server racks stand in the background while another person sits at a cubicle.

Careers

With an AS in Cybersecurity Operations from Florida SouthWestern State College, you can prepare for in-demand roles such as:

  • Network Defense Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Incident Response Specialist
  • Network Security Operator
  • Threat Analyst*
  • Penetration Tester*
  • SOC Specialist*
  • Systems Support Technician
  • Cybersecurity Engineer
  • Network Engineer
  • Junior Cloud Engineer
  • Security Analyst
  • Systems Administrator
  • Infrastructure Support Specialist

*Direct career pathways supported by training on the SimSpace platform.

The median annual salary for an Information Security Analyst in Lee County was $93,150 in 2023, reflecting the high demand for these skills. Graduates gain practical skills aligned with workforce demands, such as threat detection, incident response, and regulatory compliance, enhanced through SimSpace’s real-world simulation environments.

Skills

Students in the Cybersecurity Operations program will develop:

  • Hands-on experience with tools like Splunk, Palo Alto Networks, and Wireshark.
  • Analytical thinking through live cyber-attack simulations.
  • Team-based training via Security Operations Center (SOC) exercises and Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges.
  • Proficiency in incident detection, mitigation, and resolution.
  • Foundational IT skills across devices and platforms.
  • Network infrastructure design, defense, and countermeasures.
  • Security architecture and posture assessment.
  • Threat intelligence and cybersecurity protocols.

The content includes but is not limited to planning, installing, configuring, monitoring, troubleshooting, and managing computer networks in a LAN/WAN environment; ensuring computer and network security; applying network defense and countermeasures; and working in a security operations center. Students will be prepared to apply conceptual and theoretical knowledge to the workplace utilizing technical skills learned during the program.

Accreditation

Florida SouthWestern State College is accredited and the program aligns with NIST and NICE frameworks, ensuring industry-relevant skills.

Student Outcomes

  • 30% savings in operational preparation time through streamlined resources.
  • 48% faster breach detection with hands-on training.
  • Career readiness for roles in SOCs, ethical hacking, and network security.

Program Information

This program is designed to help students obtain the skills needed to earn various industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+. The program is designed for both full-time and part-time students. Courses are offered in an online and traditional formats to accommodate students’ varying schedules and learning preferences. 

Hands-On Learning

Students utilize SimSpace’s cyber range platform for:

  • Real-world simulations and team-based activities like SOC training and CTF competitions.
  • Skill-building to address evolving cybersecurity challenges.

The program equips students with skills to defend against cyber threats, offering flexible formats and access to industry-aligned tools.

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Continuing Toward a Baccalaureate Degree

There are many opportunities for more advanced education. Graduates of the AS, Cybersecurity Operations Degree can matriculate into the BAS, Information Systems Technology Degree at Florida SouthWestern State College or can pursue Bachelor’s Degrees in computer science and information technology related areas at many colleges and universities located throughout the state and country.

Why Choose FSW?

  • Access to cutting-edge technology through SimSpace.
  • Hands-on learning environments simulating real-world cybersecurity scenarios.
  • Faculty and student support with cloud-based tools.
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate personal commitments.
  • High employability with career-ready training and certifications.

Contact

For more information, contact FSW’s School of Business & Technology at sbt@fsw.edu or visit FSW's Equity Page.