Computers and the invention of the internet have, and will continue, to revolutionize our world. Cyberspace offers endless opportunities to connect, share, create and collaborate- for the youngest to the most elderly people, for the smallest of business to the largest of corporations, and for the tiniest of towns to the most powerful countries. This digitally connected environment also affords many opportunities for cybercrime, the fastest growing area of crimes involving computer networks. How can we continue to share information, collect data, communicate effectively and foster collaboration through technology, while still ensuring that the we know who we are communicating with, and that the information that we store or share online is protected?
It’s no surprise that in a rapidly advancing digital age, cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing career fields and is at the forefront of everyone’s minds now, and as we look toward the future, to predict and protect from the next generation of cyber threats.
This semester course will provide an interesting and engaging look at the concept of cybersecurity. Students will begin by exploring the latest threats that exist in our digital world. They will investigate protective measures across networks, software and encryption, including fundamental programming concepts for cybersecurity. Students will reflect on what behaviors and actions are consistent with good cyber hygiene. This survey of cybersecurity threats, protective measures and best practices is essential knowledge for all students, as they must be informed users of cyberspace to be productive citizens in today’s world, and to prepare for virtually all careers of tomorrow.