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Track: Cybersecurity
Focus: Blue Team, Network Defense, Compliance
Est. Cost: $253
Time to Complete: ~9 Months
Target Degree: B.A. in Philosophy
Why: Cybersecurity is no longer just about firewalls; it is about Logic, Ethics, and Privacy Law. A Philosophy degree validates your ability to handle the “Governance, Risk, and Compliance” (GRC) side of security, while the certifications prove the technical capability.
Specialty Core (30 Credits)
Strategy: Combine the Google tactical certification with Cisco’s networking authority.
| Course / Certification | Provider | Est. Cost | Credits | Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cisco CCST: Cybersecurity | Cisco (Exam) | $125 | 3 | Cert #1: Network security validation |
| Google Cybersecurity Cert | Google (Coursera) | ~$49 | 10 | Cert #2: Python, Linux, SQL, SIEM |
| CS402: Computer Comms | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Network theory (OSI Model) |
| Information Systems | Modern States | $0 | 3 | Systems baseline |
| BUS205: Business Law | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Liability & Regulation |
| BUS200: Business Ethics | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Compliance |
| ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity | ISC2 | FREE | 3 | Cert #3: Business Continuity |
| BUS402: Project Management | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Security Ops Management |
Recommended Electives (15 Credits)
| Course Name | Provider | Cost | Credits | Relevance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BUS206: Mgmt Info Systems | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Security Architecture context |
| Introductory Psychology | Modern States | $0 | 3 | Social engineering psychology |
| BUS303: Strategic IT | Saylor | $5 | 3 | Security Policy writing |
| Precalculus | Modern States | $0 | 3 | Cryptography math foundation |
| Public Speaking | Modern States | $0 | 3 | Presenting audit findings |
9-Month Roadmap
| Month | Focus |
|---|---|
| Month 1-2 | Google Cybersecurity Cert (Coursera) |
| Month 3 | Cisco CCST Exam study & attempt |
| Month 4 | CS402 (Saylor) & Info Systems (CLEP) |
| Month 5 | Business Law & Ethics (Saylor) |
| Month 6 | Software Engineering & PM (Saylor) |
| Month 7-9 | Electives (Self-paced) |