Students interested in information security and network and cloud technologies have the opportunity to earn high school credit and the following industry-recognized credentials: CompTia IT Fundamentals+, CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate),  LPIC Linux Essentials, the LPIC-1 or CompTIA Linux+ credentials, through this academy. Learning consists of online modules, class discussions, and hands-on application of knowledge in our lab. The Academy is open to students from all three high schools through an application process. Students who participate will travel to the Emerald Campus.

YEAR 1:

IT Fundamentals (and Cloud Fundamentals)

Students will investigate the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, software development, and database use.  Students will also learn to install software, establish basic network connectivity, and identify and prevent basic security risks. This one-semester introduction course will introduce the student to numerous areas of IT while preparing to test for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification. 

Prerequisite: Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade: 10 - 12

Time Frame: Fall Semester

Credit: 0.5

Linux Essentials - 417 

This course is an introduction to the Linux operating system. Linux is an open-source Operating System (OS) used in smartphones, cars, supercomputers, home appliances, home desktops, and more. This course is the first in a series of three courses designed to prepare for certification in the Linux OS. The concepts and basics of the Linux command line are examined in this course.  Students will have the opportunity to work in a hands-on environment as well as online labs and assessments.

Prerequisite: Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade: 10 - 12

Time Frame: Fall Semester

Credit: 0.5

Linux I -

This course is designed for students to build on skills from Linux Essentials and prepare for either the LPIC-1 or CompTIA Linux+ Certifications. NDG Linux I provides hands-on labs and activities.

Prerequisite: Linux Essentials, Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade: 10 - 12

Time Frame: Fall Semester

Credit: 0.5

CCNA Introduction to Networking – 415

Students will learn the fundamental concepts of networking and apply this knowledge to the configuration of a switch and router network. This course emphasizes the two models of networking (OSI and TCP/IP).  By the end of the course, students will be able to build a small network. *NOTE: As part of Cyber Academy: Year 1, students will have the choice to take this class or  CCNA Cybersecurity Operations – 447.

Prerequisite: Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade: 10 - 12

Time Frame: Spring Semester

Credit: 0.5

CCNA Cybersecurity Operations - 447

This course allows learners to understand how a Security Operations Center (SOC) functions and the introductory-level skills and knowledge needed in this environment.  Understanding basic threat analysis, event correlation, identifying malicious activity, and how to use a playbook for incident response. *NOTE: As part of Cyber Academy: Year 1, students will have the choice to take this class or CCNA Introduction to Networking – 415.

Prerequisite: Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade:  10 - 12

Time Frame: Spring Semester

Credit: 0.5

YEAR 2:

CCNA 2 - Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials

Building about the concepts of CCNA 1, students will learn how to implement VLANS, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), along with Security and Wireless concepts.  

Prerequisite: CCNA 1, Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade:  11 - 12

Time Frame: Semester

Credit: 0.5

CCNA 3 - Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation

In this final course in the networking pathway, students will learn to expand the scale of the network and investigating dynamic routing protocols such as Open Shortest Path First (OSPFv2).  In addition, students will learn some basic security by implementing Access Control Lists (ACLs) and VPN and IPsec concepts. Other concepts explored include Troubleshooting, Virtualization, and Automation.

Prerequisite: CCNA 2, Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade:  11 - 12

Time Frame: Semester

Credit: 0.5

Linux II

This is the second course in a 2-course series; it is designed for students to build on skills from Linux I  and will prepare students to test for either the LPIC-1 or CompTIA Linux+ Certifications. Content includes further mastering Linux installation, configuring and maintenance is key to positioning yourself well and securing the IT administrator job of your choice. 

Prerequisite: Linux I, Application

Graded: Conventional

Grade:  11 - 12

Time Frame: Semester

Credit: 0.5

Cyber Research & Field Experience

The capstone course provides opportunities for students to apply knowledge and skills that were learned in Cyber Academy in a more comprehensive and authentic way. This capstone experience can include project/problem-based learning opportunities that occur both in and away from school. Under the supervision of the school and through community partnerships, students may combine classroom learning with work experience. This course can be delivered through a variety of delivery methods including cooperative education or apprenticeship.

Prerequisite: Cyber Academy Year I

Graded: Conventional

Grade:  11 - 12

Time Frame: Semester

Credit: 0.5