Department of Computer Science, College of Science and Engineering
59 credits
Introduction
This is a joint academic program between Western Washington University (WWU) and Whatcom Community College (WCC), culminating in a baccalaureate degree in computer and information systems security. Students complete the first two years of the program at WCC, earning an Associate in Applied Science - Transfer Degree in Cybersecurity. The final two years of the program at WWU enables them to complete the requirements for BS in Computer and Information Systems Security (CISS).
Why Consider a Computer and Information Systems Security Major?
The rise of cyber-attacks and a heightened awareness of network vulnerability, coupled with a shortage of trained cybersecurity professionals, is creating serious consequences for individuals, corporations and government agencies seeking to protect sensitive information. In response to the emerging demand, Whatcom Community College (WCC) and Western Washington University’s (WWU) College of Sciences and Technology are working together in one of the nation’s few community college-to-university cybersecurity collaborations. As a result, students may enroll at Whatcom to begin a pathway to a Bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Systems Security (CISS) from Western.
This new applied program is designed to provide students and IT professionals the opportunity to continue their education to the bachelor’s degree level in the emergent field of computer information security. The CISS degree will prepare graduates for high-demand professional roles such as network specialist, network administrator, network security administrator, secure software development specialist or digital forensic practitioner.
This new two-year Associate in Applied Science – Transfer degree in Cybersecurity will allow graduates to apply to Western for the CISS degree, and transfer up to 91 credits. WCC graduates will have mastered the technical knowledge of today’s information systems. The benefit to continuing through to the bachelor’s degree is they will have the technical skills and the additional education requirements of the majority of potential employers; specifically larger businesses and local, state and federal government positions.
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Computer network security administrator | Secure software development specialist | Digital forensic practitioner
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How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
- Completion of Associate in Applied Science Degree in Computer Information Systems from Whatcom Community College
- Completion of at least 91 quarter-system credits including the following courses: CIS 106, CIS 110, CIS 116, CIS 205, CIS 214, CIS 215, CIS 216, CIS 227, CIS 228, CIS 229, CS 140, CS 145, MATH 141, MATH 142, MATH 151, ENGL 101, PHYS 221, PHIL 130 and electives of 0-7 credits of any transferable college level courses numbered 100 or above
- Minimum GPA of 2.50
Application Process
Priority consideration for admission will be given to applicants submitting all of the following requirements by the priority deadline:
- WWU Transfer Application submitted by the application deadline and $55 non-refundable application fee: admissions.wwu.edu/transfer
- Official transcripts from Whatcom Community College
Major Declaration Process
Students will be declared majors upon admission acceptance. For more information, please contact David Bover, David.Bover@wwu.edu, 360-650-3798.
Grade Requirements
A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
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