Careers in Computer Systems Security

Ongoing threats to computer networks where valuable private information is stolen or networks are impaired mean the demand for security professionals should grow over the next decade.  Security professionals evaluate a system's weaknesses.  They identify risks, contain attacks on the system, and prevent the loss of sensitive information.  People in this field implement and maintain security tools in the detection, notification, and isolation of issues that affect security.  Enterprise security professionals work can involve the creation and documentation of a security policy, the examination of current industry threats and risks, and the planning of a disaster recovery program.  In 2005 the Godbe Research Group conducted an extensive study for the Silicon Valley Workforce Investment Network. This labor study evaluated the demand for homeland and information security professionals in Silicon Valley. The survey results reveal an expected growth rate of 7% percent over the next year for the Bay Area. According to the study's findings, four (4) occupations are expected to have large growth in Silicon Valley: Network Engineer /Architect, Database Security Engineer, Data Security Analyst, and Security Software Engineer.

Necessary Education and Skills for Career Success

Computer security professionals will need in-depth knowledge of networking concepts, network administration, and operating systems. Other qualities of a successful security professional include organizational skills for approaching highly demanding, structured tasks, and strong critical thinking skills for evaluating possible actions and countermeasures to problems.

General Info About the Program
De Anza College offers certificate and degree programs in computer systems security administration. Students pursuing the Enterprise Security Professional program will be able to design and implement proactive computer network defenses protect systems against vulnerabilities. Students will install, operate, manage, troubleshoot and secure operating systems providing reliable and secure enterprise network services. The Certificate of Achievement in Computer Crime Investigation teaches techniques for uncovering data and evidence in computer, network, and technology-related crimes.

Computer Systems Security Certificate and Degree Programs

The following links open in .pdf.

Certificates of Achievement:

• Computer Crime Investigation (Forensics)
• Enterprise Security Professional

Certificate of Achievement-Advanced:

• Enterprise Security Professional

Associate Degree (A.A.):

• Enterprise Security Professional

For more information contact Computer Applications and Office Systems Department
Business and Computer Systems Division
De Anza L14
(408) 864-8796,8797
http://caos.deanza.edu