Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op
This one-year program is ideal for those looking to becoming familiar with all aspects of cyber security such as blockchain, big data and the IoT (Internet of Things). This program is powered by CompTIA, giving you the knowledge to build a solid foundation towards the Security+ certification.
This program qualifies for Better Jobs Ontario funding.
Fees & Facts
Gain the ability to anticipate information security risks, implement new ways to protect networks, and prevent cyberattacks of various types. Through lab activities and cutting edge tools, students will build the professional skills required to pursue a career in cybersecurity.
Program Outcomes
- Learn to use tools such as Cryptool, Wireshark, Zenmap, nmap, Burp Suite, Snort, TCPdump, OpenVAS and OSSIM
- Learn Python programming language, SQL, Hyper-V, mobile simulator/emulators to perform cybersecurity lab experiments
- Assess risks to determine how security policies and protocols can be improved by studying computer systems and networks
- Anticipate information security risks and implement new ways to protect organizations’ computer systems and networks
- Handle computer communication across multiple operation systems
- Respond to security alerts and uncover and fix flaws in computer systems and networks
- Utilize technologies to perform or prevent cyberattacks of various types
Learning Partner
This program is powered by CompTIA, giving you the knowledge to build a solid foundation towards the most recognized accreditation in the industry, the Security+ certification. CompTIA is considered to be one of the IT industry’s top trade associations. It issues professional certifications in over 120 countries.
Co-op Experience
The co-op term provides you with an opportunity to integrate academic studies with related employment experience. Students can also choose to complete a Capstone project. Learn more about Capstone here.
The co-op work experience could include positions in the following areas:
- IT Support Desk Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Information Systems Analyst
You will have 480 hours guided learning hours followed by 240 hours practicum hours in an established business. The work placement will help you apply the theories you learn to practical business situations. We will help you secure your work placement by sending you for interviews.
1. Introduction to Cybersecurity
This module is designed to give you basic knowledge of the cyber world. This module will enable you to understand the principles of cyberattacks, the darknet, hackers’ motivations and various advanced technologies.
2. Computer Networks
This module will review the structure of personal computer basic concepts in data communications, the 7 layers model, working with SERVER 2016, remote and direct access as well as Virtual Private Network (VPN).
3. Communications, Operating Systems and Data Management
This module focuses on advanced computer communications topics such as monitoring and analyzing network traffic, operating systems (with an emphasis on Linux and Windows), data archives and management development (including Structured Query Language (SQL) and mobile cybersecurity).
4. Programming Languages for Cybersecurity
This module covers web technologies and basic HTML development. In addition, you will learn Python code development and basic programming with Python.
5. Concepts and Practical Implication of Encryption
This module will focus on the technology of cryptography and the techniques, limitations and problems commonly encountered. It covers the theory and application of methods available to secure information, computers and networks, as well as legal issues to do with cryptography.
6. Information Security in the Cyber World
In this module, you will learn several topics. First, you will become familiar with various types of scans such as networks, sites, computers and vulnerabilities for attacks. The second part of this module will cover weaknesses in information security (hardware, software and infrastructure) and data and cyber protection technologies, tools and leading companies.
7. Penetration Testing
This module is designed to provide you with the basic skills to conduct and build penetration testing infrastructure that includes all the equipment needed such as hardware, software, network infrastructure and tools.
8. Hackathon
This module will cover tactics for managing and synchronizing a multiplayer cyber event: SOC, NOC, ISP, MSSP and using communication strategies as a tool to manage and prevent a crisis during cyberattacks.
9. Work Placement
Once the program is complete, you are required to complete 240 hours of a work placement in a suitable business environment. Appropriate business sectors for a placement include cybersecurity services, banking, financial services and insurance offices, not-for-profits, communications services, government entities and more. Activities performed will vary depending on the placement site, however, your key responsibilities will include:
- Learning to build secure software systems, networks and data centers
- Assisting in the search for vulnerabilities and risks in hardware and software
- Building firewalls into network infrastructures
- Have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be at least 18 years of age and pass the Wonderlic test.
For non-native English speakers:
- Successful completion of TSoM EAP Level 4 or
- Have the required IELTS 5.5 score or equivalent or
- Pass the TSoM English Assessment (Written onsite or online with exam proctor)
Computer Use Expectation
In order to successfully progress through studies at Toronto School of Management (TSoM), it is required that you have access to a personal computer or laptop, with minimum configurations:
- CPU: i5 or higher with 4 cores or more is recommended. Alternatively, Ryzen 3 or 5 with 4 or 6 cores and 8 to 12 threads. Ensure that it fully supports VMware and VirtualBox.
- RAM: Minimum 12 GB (16 highly recommended)
- Storage: Minimum 256GB HDD/SSD or higher (Recommended NVME 512GB or Higher)
- USB3 support
- Wireless Adapter with N or AC standard and Ethernet Adapter
Additionally, TSoM offers access to computer labs on campus, but availability cannot be guaranteed and some program software may not be available on all open access computers.
You must successfully complete and pass all five modules to be awarded the TSoM Diploma.
The assessment of each module consists of:
Individual assignments or class tests 50%
Final exam 40%
Participation 10%
Individual assignments or class tests 90%
Participation 10%
Work placement report – Pass/fail
| Letter Grade | Percentage | Grade Point |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | 90 – 100 | 4.3 |
| A | 85 – 89 | 4.0 |
| A- | 80 – 84 | 3.7 |
| B+ | 77 – 79 | 3.3 |
| B | 73 – 76 | 3.0 |
| B- | 70 – 72 | 2.7 |
| C+ | 67 – 69 | 2.3 |
| C | 63 – 66 | 2.0 |
| C- | 60 – 62 | 1.7 |
| D | 50 – 59 | 1.0 |
| F | 0 – 49 | 0.0 |
Upon completion of this program, you will be awarded the Diploma. If you do not pass, you can re-enroll in the course and re-take at the next available sitting.
Graduates of this diploma can consider career opportunities under NOC 2171 which includes positions such as:
- Informatics security analyst
- Systems security analyst
- Security administrator
- Security software developer
- Cryptographer
Marcus Vinicius de Moraes
He pursued his international studies here in Toronto and took up the Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op. He graduated in April 2021 and is now working at a company in Mississauga.
Welcome to Toronto School of Management. Come join Erika, Jeffrey, and Melanie as they take you on a campus tour of the bigger, better, and bolder Toronto School of Management Education House
Neelam originated from India and pursued international education at TSoM, graduating and acquiring the Diploma in Cybersecurity Specialist Co-op. She found a program with co-op, which helped her gain relevant skills, as she was able to apply all that she learned from class in her current job.
