Not in Honolulu? Check out our list of Cyber Security Programs across Hawaii.
Are you looking to advance your career in cybersecurity?
Honolulu, HI, offers some of the top cyber security programs in the nation.
This article highlights the best courses and certifications available, providing you with crucial information to make an informed choice.
Find out why Honolulu’s cyber security education stands out and which program aligns with your career goals.
Honolulu Community College – Computing Security & Networking Technology (CSNT)
Honolulu Community College offers a dynamic Associate of Science (AS) program in Computing Security & Networking Technology (CSNT). This program is designed to develop your practical skills with real systems including routers, switches, firewalls, virtual systems, Windows Server, Linux OS, cloud services, and data management.
Key Features:
- Hands-on Training: You’ll receive extensive hands-on training that prepares you for industry roles.
- Industry Certifications: The curriculum supports certifications like A+, Security+, CCNA, and Network+.
- Cybersecurity Exercises: Engage in cybersecurity exercises within a private cloud environment, enhancing your ability to manage real-world scenarios.
- Articulation Agreements: The program smoothly transitions into a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Security Assurance (BAS ISA) at the University of Hawaii-West Oahu.
- Advanced Professional Certificate: There’s an option for an advanced professional certificate that also leads into the BAS ISA program.
The program’s validation by the National Security Agency (NSA) reassures you of its high standards, and collaborations with the likes of Cisco, AWS, Microsoft, CompTIA, and VMware provide industry recognition and opportunities.
Further Opportunities
- Society Engagements: The Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training (PCATT) offers non-credit, continuing education courses that write another layer of skill enhancement.
- Competitive Edge: The program’s stellar performance in national cybersecurity competitions ensures you’ll be well-prepared to excel in competitive environments.
For more information about this program, visit the Honolulu Community College CSNT page.
University of Hawaii-West Oahu – Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
The University of Hawaii-West Oahu provides an in-depth Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program. This course prepares you for advanced roles in both the public and private sectors, covering a wide array of contemporary and emerging cybersecurity topics.
Core Areas of Study:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: You’ll delve into defensive activities, proactive security measures, industrial control systems cybersecurity, cyber investigations, and response strategies.
- Cyber Operations Concentration: This optional concentration focuses on communications, wireless technologies, and systems security.
- Articulating Pathways: Ideal for students transitioning from aligned Associate Degree programs at other community colleges, this program supports a smooth educational journey.
This program’s inclusive approach ensures equal opportunity, supported by professors and staff committed to providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills. You will benefit from an education designed to create and maintain secure systems, making you a valuable asset in the cybersecurity field.
For more about the program, visit the University of Hawaii-West Oahu Cybersecurity page.
Hawaii Pacific University – Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Hawaii Pacific University offers a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity that adheres to the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) guidelines, preparing you for current industry demands. The program balances scientific principles with practical applications, ensuring you become proficient in key cybersecurity techniques.
What You Will Learn:
- Foundational Concepts: Learn the principles of confidentiality, integrity, availability, and risk assessment.
- Systems and Adversarial Thinking: Gain expertise in detecting and responding to security threats through systems and adversarial thinking.
- Professional Communication: Develop the skills to effectively communicate technical concepts both in writing and orally.
- Ethical Perspectives: The program underscores the ethical, legal, and social responsibilities of computing professionals.
The practical experience gained from this curriculum ensures you are well-prepared for roles in government, military, and private sectors, making you adept in implementing security measures and responding to cyber incidents.
For further details, visit the Hawaii Pacific University Cybersecurity page.
KapiÊ»olani Community College – Information Technology (ITS) Program
Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the NSA and DHS, Kapiʻolani Community College offers a robust Information Technology (ITS) Program. This program prepares you with certificates in Information Security and Assurance (ISA).
Program Highlights:
- Certificates: Attain a Certificate of Achievement (CA) and a Certificate of Competence (CO) in ISA.
- Hands-on Learning: Enjoy access to resources for programming, web applications, and virtual systems management at the Kopiko Learning Community (KLC).
- Continuous Education: The Pacific Center for Advanced Technology Training (PCATT) offers non-credit courses supporting industry certifications like A+, Net+, Sec+, and more.
- National Recognition: The CAE-CD designation reaffirms the program’s quality and commitment to cybersecurity education.
These features, combined with a practical and supportive learning environment, position Kapiʻolani Community College as an excellent choice for burgeoning cybersecurity professionals.
Explore more at the Kapiʻolani Community College Cybersecurity Center.
Ready to secure your future in cybersecurity? Explore these exceptional programs and take the first step toward a successful cybersecurity career in Honolulu, HI.
University of Hawaii Maui College – Applied Business and Information Technology (ABIT) BAS
University of Hawaii Maui College offers an exceptional Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Applied Business and Information Technology (ABIT). This program is highly regarded, especially with its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
What the ABIT Program Offers:
- Core Courses: The curriculum includes essential courses such as Introduction to Information Security and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security.
- Membership in National Centers for Cybersecurity Education (NCyTE): As a member, UHMC offers a wealth of resources including scholarships, internships, and online training sessions.
- Enhanced Training: UHMC’s Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research (CCER) provides additional workforce development and training initiatives across the University of Hawaiʻi system.
- Practical Experience: Emphasis on practical experience prepares you for real-world scenarios of safeguarding information and defending against cyber threats.
- Focus on SMEs: The program specifically trains cybersecurity technicians for small to medium-sized enterprises, integrating data analytics and artificial intelligence within the curriculum.
Explore further details on the University of Hawaii Maui College Cybersecurity page.
Hawaii Pacific University – Associate of Science in Cybersecurity
Hawaii Pacific University offers a focused Associate of Science (AS) in Cybersecurity through the College of Professional Studies. This 60-credit hour program lays a solid foundation in computer security and networking.
Core Program Features:
- Foundational Courses: Covering key cybersecurity principles including ethical, legal, security, and social issues in computing.
- Pathway to Bachelor’s Degree: This AS program is designed to serve as a direct pathway to HPU’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity, maintaining continuity in your educational journey.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum is regularly updated to align with industry trends, spanning topics such as evidence gathering and response planning for cybersecurity incidents.
- Confidentiality and Integrity: Instructions emphasize maintaining data confidentiality and integrity, ensuring comprehensive coverage of information assurance.
This AS degree is a practical stepping stone for students keen on progressing to higher levels of cybersecurity studies.
More details are available on the Hawaii Pacific University AS Cybersecurity page.
How to Choose the Best Cyber Security Program in Honolulu HI
Selecting the right cyber security program in Honolulu, HI, is crucial for your future career. Consider these critical factors to find the best fit:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited and recognized, particularly if it’s designated as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) by the NSA and DHS.
- Curriculum: Look at whether the curriculum spans foundational and advanced security concepts, incorporating real-world defensive and offensive strategies, and risk management.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the faculty’s credentials and industry experience. Programs with well-qualified, experienced professionals offer a higher-quality education.
- Hands-On Experience: Opt for programs that emphasize practical, hands-on training with real systems or simulations. Access to cybersecurity labs is a significant advantage.
- Industry Certifications: Check if the program supports and prepares you for well-known industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH, and AWS.
- Job Placement Rates: Analyze the program’s job placement rates and its relationships with industry employers. A high job placement rate often indicates strong industry connections.
- Further Education Pathways: See if the program provides articulation agreements with other institutions, allowing for seamless progression to higher degrees.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Evaluate the cost of the program and the availability of financial aid or scholarships to ensure it fits your budget.
The Right Choice for Your Career
By thoroughly vetting these elements, you can make an informed choice about which cyber security program best fits your immediate educational needs and long-term career aspirations. Explore short-term benefits and long-term gains to align your education with your career goals.
Summary and Recommendation
Cybersecurity is a growing field with numerous educational opportunities in Honolulu, HI. Programs at Honolulu Community College, University of Hawaii-West Oahu, Hawaii Pacific University, Kapiʻolani Community College, and University of Hawaii Maui College offer diverse options tailored to different academic levels and professional goals. Each institution provides a unique set of features and advantages, so explore more by visiting their specific program pages:
- Honolulu Community College – Computing Security & Networking Technology (CSNT)
- University of Hawaii-West Oahu – Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
- Hawaii Pacific University – Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
- KapiÊ»olani Community College – Information Technology (ITS) Program
- University of Hawaii Maui College – Applied Business and Information Technology (ABIT) BAS
- Hawaii Pacific University – Associate of Science in Cybersecurity
Choose the program that best suits your career plan and take the next step in your cybersecurity education!