Cybersecurity and Networking Certificates and Degree Program - Southwestern Illinois College

It is more important than ever to have the skills that employers are looking for. Our Cybersecurity and Networking program is designed to prepare you with the necessary skills to obtain an entry-level position in the growing fields of cybersecurity and networking.

Are you ready to begin, change, or accelerate your career?

One way to demonstrate your skills is to earn digital badges including recognized industry certifications that verify your skills and knowledge.


  • accessible to learners of all levels
  • engaging and interactive
  • use electronic curricula (interactive “book”) and supply software at no charge
  • flexible class formats in-person or live and recorded online
  • lead to digital badges that the majority of employers are assessing
  • are a pathway to the prestigious Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification
  • align with CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certification exams
  • are loaded with interactive simulation and virtual labs
  • have an “unlimited” book and remote lab option to subscribe to book/materials at a flat rate
  • flexible class format in-person or live and recorded online

Networking Certificate

  • Four intense Cisco Networking Academy courses (16 credits) that upon success lead to digital badges the CCNA certification
  • Recommended for those with some background or special interest in IT/computing/gaming
  • CISC 161, CISC 162 CISC 163, and CISC 164

Cybersecurity Specialist Certificate

  • Take the degree-seeker’s courses without the general education requirement
  • Earn digital badges and gain the foundational skills for CCNA, and CompTIA certifications

Associate of Applied Science in Cybersecurity and Networking

  • Earn digital badges and gain the foundational skills for CCNA, and CompTIA certifications
  • Take general education classes to complete the degree (61 credits)
  • Accelerated option for holders of degrees from accredited institutions–skip the general education courses and still earn the degree
  • Spring or Fall start
  • Complete your Bachelor’s degree at SIUCarbondale (online or in person). Our program transfers completely into theirs (articulation agreement).

Career Opportunities

Possible career paths include the following with salary expectations between US$50 and 70k or more.

  • Network Technician
  • Network Administrator
  • Support Technician
  • Configuration Technician
  • Cybersecurity Specialist

for details about career opportunities, review the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additional information is available from SWIC Career Services.


Contact Information

For more information email the Program Coordinator, Carolin Brewer, carolin.brewer@swic.edu, or call 618-797-7374 and leave a detailed message.