Information Security Associate Degree
Associate Degree

Why Major in Information Security at NCC?

Ready to work in the rapidly growing cybersecurity field? The associate in applied science (AAS) degree in Information Security from Northampton Community College (NCC) equips you with hands-on training and strengthens your skills to protect and defend computer systems and networks.

Our two-year program offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to learn in person at our Bethlehem campus or partially online. Whichever course of study you choose, you graduate ready to launch your tech career or transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

 

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Refine Your Technical Skills Through Experiential Learning

As part of NCC’s Center for Cybersecurity Education and Training, the Information Security major delivers STEM-focused education and offers transformative extracurriculars like professional mentorship, competition opportunities, and more. You also participate in computer labs, group work, and hands-on projects that require applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, helping you refine your problem-solving and programming skills while implementing and complying with security policies.

 

Earn Professional Certificates Along the Way

NCC’s Information Security Program qualifies you for industry-relevant certifications to help you stand out in a competitive workforce.

• Our Linux Administration course enables you to build foundational skills and work toward earning the LPI Linux Essentials Professional Development Certificate.
• The Ethical Hacking course also prepares you for the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam, ensuring you gain a solid understanding of ethical hacking methods and software and how to evaluate network vulnerabilities.
• Many of our lab-based information security classes align with CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification requirements, which can further enhance your marketability and help you get ahead in the field.

Study in a Nationally Recognized Cybersecurity Program

NCC is proud to be a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), a prestigious designation granted by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This recognition, valid through 2026, places us among a select group of institutions that meet the highest standards in cybersecurity education.

As a CAE-CD-designated program, we offer quality technical training and a cutting-edge curriculum that sharpens your competitive edge for cybersecurity roles. Plus, you can be sure that as a CAE-CD school, NCC meets the rigorous requirements outlined by the NSA. We are committed to producing high-quality cybersecurity professionals to safeguard the U.S. national infrastructure.

 

What You’ll Learn

In today’s ever-changing technological landscape, cybersecurity is a top priority for government organizations, businesses, healthcare systems, and more. NCC’s Information Security Program equips you with in-demand technical skills and experience that positions you for success.

Our curriculum incorporates general education requirements, such as English, math, and other electives, to support your overall growth as a professional; however, most of your coursework centers on computer science, information technology, and cybersecurity.

In the degree program, you’ll study foundational network and information security concepts like the core principles of cryptography, VPNs and wireless communication, and access control and authentication. As you progress through the program, you tackle more advanced concepts, including cyberethics and systems administration.

Upon completion of the Information Security Program, you’ll have the skills to:

• Use fundamental programmatic logic and design, HTML, and basic networking concepts
• Monitor and maintain servers in a networked environment
• Identify vulnerabilities and adhere to best practices in threat detection, risk management, and data protection
• Understand and comply with legal and ethical cybersecurity practices
• Determine, evaluate, and communicate the performance and information security needs of an organization

Applying to Northampton’s Information Security Program

Whatever type of student you are, NCC’s application process is easy, free, and 100% online.
Additionally, we offer rolling admissions, so there is no final deadline. You can apply when you have the time and start your courses in the upcoming semester.

Take the next step toward becoming a Spartan. Learn more about Northampton's admissions process.

 

Tuition and Financial Aid

NCC is proud to be one of Pennsylvania’s most affordable community colleges. We offer competitive tuition and fees and generous scholarships and financial aid resources to help you afford a quality education. Invest in a two-year Information Security degree to move one step closer to a rewarding career.