Overview
The Cybersecurity Essentials for IT Professionals microcredential includes three 2-day workshops to learn how cyber crimes affect an organization, how to defend a network, and how to respond to a cyberattack. Classes include an introduction to the job duties of a cybersecurity professional, setting you up for further education to work in the field.
About the program
- 3 intakes: January, April, and September
- 3 workshops (2 days and 1 credit each)
- Fully online
- Saturdays, 9 am – 4.30 pm
- Hands-on learning with industry tools
- Earn a digital badge for each workshop
- Receive a BCIT Microcredential upon completing all three workshops
Who should complete the Cybersecurity Essentials Microcredential?
This program is ideal for:
- IT professionals looking to expand their cybersecurity knowledge
- Individuals interested in transitioning into cybersecurity careers
- Students or professionals seeking a strong foundation in cybersecurity practices
What Cybersecurity Essentials grads can do
By earning your BCIT Microcredential, you’ll build critical cybersecurity skills and gain experience with industry-recognized tools. These competencies can help you pursue roles in network security, penetration testing, IT support, and cybersecurity operations. With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals in both public and private sectors, you’ll be well-positioned for career growth.
Entrance Requirements
Application processing
Ongoing throughout the year.
Recommended for success
To be successful in this program, students are recommended to have the following:
- English 12 or equivalent
- A diploma or two years of post-secondary education in computer science, and some knowledge of operating systems.
International applicants
This program is available to international applicants who will complete the program from outside Canada or who currently have a valid status in Canada other than study permit.
Study permit: International applicants accepted into this program are not eligible for a study permit.
Apply to program
Formal application to the microcredential is not required. Upon successful completion of the courses, email the program contact with your full name, student number, and mailing address to be issued a microcredential.
Scheduled Intakes
Ongoing Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) intakes: January, April, and September.
Costs & Supplies
Tuition fees
Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis. Please see the Flexible Learning Tuition & Fees page for more information on domestic and international tuitions.
Courses
Class hours
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Program matrix
Check current availability of courses for this program.
| Required courses: | Credits | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| XFSC 7011 | Network Foundation | 1.0 | |
| XFSC 7021 | Network Security using Kali Linux | 1.0 | |
| XFSC 7031 | Incident Response and Disaster Recovery | 1.0 | |
| Total Credits: | 3.0 | ||
Check current availability of courses for this program.
Digital badge information
For information on how to obtain your course and/or microcredential digital badge, please review our Frequently Asked Questions page.Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
Program Details
Course Descriptions
XFSC 7011 – Network Foundations
Explore the fundamentals of core networking concepts, including communication hardware, software, the OSI model, and network protocols. It focuses on essential skills for designing and maintaining secure network environments, with an emphasis on network traffic analysis, security principles, and intrusion detection.
You’ll also explore strategies to strengthen defenses against malicious attacks. This workshop is ideal for those looking to enhance their network administration skills. A basic understanding of operating systems (Windows 10 or Linux) is recommended.
XFSC 7021 – Network Security Using Kali Linux
Get hands-on experience with Kali Linux for penetration testing and ethical hacking. You’ll learn how cybersecurity professionals use hacking techniques to identify vulnerabilities and improve network security.
The course covers the fundamentals of cyber threats, network exploitation, and security defense strategies through interactive exercises. A basic understanding of computer networks and the Linux operating system is recommended.
XFSC 7031 – Incident Response and Disaster Recovery
Explore the fundamentals of incident response and disaster recovery planning. You’ll learn how to develop and implement strategies to protect businesses from cyber incidents, data breaches, and system failures.
The course covers key procedures, technologies, and best practices for ensuring business continuity and effective crisis management.
Program delivery
Online: This program is delivered fully online.
Program location
Courses are offered through online learning .Subscribe
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