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Cybersecurity Studies - Course and Curriculum Overview

Courses 

The Post-Graduate Certificate (PGC) Program in National Cybersecurity Studies (NCS) is a cohort-based program designed to provide students with specialized knowledge and practical skills in cybersecurity, information security, and risk management. The program consists of four 3-semester-unit courses completed over two semesters (9 months). Students take two courses during the Fall semester and two courses during the Spring semester, progressing through the curriculum with a cohort of peers and building a strong foundation in the principles and practices that drive today's cybersecurity workforce.

Through a focused, graduate-level curriculum, students explore critical topics related to protecting digital assets, managing cyber risks, securing information systems, and addressing emerging cybersecurity challenges facing organizations across the public and private sectors. The program is designed to prepare students for career advancement and leadership opportunities in a rapidly growing field where skilled cybersecurity professionals are in high demand.

To accommodate diverse learning needs, the program is offered in both HyFlex and Fully Online modalities. Regardless of the format selected, students complete the same rigorous curriculum, learn from the same expert faculty, and achieve the same learning outcomes. This flexible approach ensures that students can choose the learning experience that best fits their schedule and lifestyle while receiving a high-quality graduate-level education.

Required Courses (12 Units)
PSCI 4840National Security Policy3
PSCI 5900Seminar in International Relations3
PSCI 5920Seminar in Government3
PSCI 6020International Security3

PSCI 4840. National Security Policy. Units: 3

This course introduces students to the key concepts and principles of national security policy, covering international relations, foreign policy, arms control, and alliance strategy. Students gain an understanding of strategic thought, which they can apply to analyze and develop policies that address national security threats and global defense strategies.

PSCI 5900. Seminar in International Relations. Units: 3

In this intensive seminar, students engage deeply with specific topics in foreign policy-making and international relations, which vary by semester. This course equips students with critical analysis skills for understanding complex foreign policy issues, enabling them to apply this knowledge to roles involving diplomacy, international negotiations, and policy advisory work.

PSCI 5920. Seminar in Government. Units: 3

This seminar provides a focused study on a particular aspect of government, selected by the instructor. Students gain in-depth insights into governmental structures and processes, which they can apply to positions that require expertise in governance, public policy development, or political consulting.

PSCI 6020. International Security. Units: 3

This course explores international security theories and the analysis of contemporary security issues. Students are equipped with the theoretical frameworks needed to understand and address current security challenges, preparing them for careers in international security analysis, intelligence, or defense policy planning.