Network and Security Architecture NSA

Holland Code: I (Investigative)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

General requirements

• This is a graduate certificate program meaning applicants need to have a business or IT related college diploma or bachelors degree or work experience to enter the program.
• Strong writing skills are required to compose security policy documents and threat analysis.
• Be able to understand basic numbering systems as used in cryptography and network protocols.
• Be able to understand complex protocols used in network communication.
• Have a broad understanding of networks, applications, operating systems, wireless, system development, understanding technology trends and their impact on business.

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Ability to speak clearly and use excellent communication skills
• Think logically and analyze complex problems
• Pay attention to details and use abstract logic at the same time
• Remain patient and persistent when dealing with frustrating problems and frustrated users
• Able to take a methodical approach to work that requires precision
• A high degree of honesty and integrity
• Not easily frustrated, adapt to change quickly
• Work independently as well as in a team environment
• Get along with all kinds of people
• Able to take responsibility for projects that require planning, Decision making and coordinating the work of others
• Work well under pressure and meet deadlines
• An active interest in keeping up with technological advances
• Good stress management skills

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Security Analyst, Security Systems Analyst, Security Architect and Security Systems Engineer.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Consulting firms that provide technical support services for other organizations; information systems departments of large organizations; municipal, provincial and federal governments; or educational and financial institutions.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Work in an office environment with either regular hours, shift work, or on call depending on place of employment
• Work is time sensitive
• Work environment is frequently changing
• Work requires long periods of sitting at a computer

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Configuring and setting up secure networks and networking equipment, auditing procedures, monitoring status of systems, reviewing/writing policies, reviewing network activity for suspicious behaviours, training other employees on security

Security

• Ensuring that authorized users don't do things that might compromise information availability, integrity or confidentiality
• Preventing hackers from disabling computers or seeing, modifying or destroying the information that servers and media contain
• Develop plans to safeguard computer files and meet emergency data processing needs
• Co-ordinate the implementation of computer systems plans with other people in the organization and outside vendors
• Test systems and procedures to make sure security measures are working
• Modify data and application files to change user permission, install security updates and remove programs or services not essential to the business operation
• Monitor the use of information and regulate access to safeguard it
• Write reports to document computer security and emergency measures policies, procedures and test results

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Security+ (CompTIA)
• CCNA – Security (Cisco Certified Network Associate – Security)
• SSCP – Security Systems Certified Practitioner ( ISC2)
• Canadian Association of IT Professionals (CIPS)
• Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

You may also wish to explore Fanshawe Graduate Employment Outcomes Report and the Employment Profile of Ontario College Graduates.

Last Modified: January 15, 2024