Security & Privacy Track

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Protect networks, systems, and data from digital attacks. Learn the core pillars of security, master defense strategies, and understand the ethical and legal landscape of cybersecurity.

10 Weeks
Beginner to Intermediate
3 Credits

About This Course

In an increasingly connected world, cybersecurity has become a global priority. From personal data protection to national security, the ability to defend against malicious digital actors is a critical and highly rewarded skill set.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field. You will explore the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), learn to identify common threats like phishing and malware, and get hands-on experience with defensive technologies such as firewalls, VPNs, and encryption.

Skills You Will Gain

CIA Triad Principles Threat Modeling Network Defense Basic Cryptography Vulnerability Assessment Security Ethics

Course Syllabus

Module 1: Foundations of Cybersecurity

Master the core terminology. Learn about the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability triad, and explore the history of cyber attacks and the current global threat landscape.

Module 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities & Attacks

Learn to think like an attacker to build better defenses. Study common attack vectors: Social Engineering, Phishing, Malware (Viruses, Ransomware), and Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks.

Module 3: Network & System Defense

Build your digital fortress. Learn how to configure Firewalls, use Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), implement Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and understand the basics of endpoint security.

Module 4: Cryptography & Data Protection

Understand how data is kept secret. [Image of symmetric vs asymmetric encryption] Learn the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hashing, and the basics of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).

Module 5: Security Policy & Incident Response

Go beyond the technology. Learn how to draft organizational security policies, perform risk assessments, and understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of a cybersecurity professional.