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Build Real Cybersecurity Skills. Launch a Career That Matters.
Cybersecurity is not just a growing field. It is a mission-critical discipline that protects businesses, communities, and national infrastructure. At Fayetteville Technical Community College, the Cybersecurity program is designed for those seeking practical skills, clear pathways, and meaningful career outcomes in a field where demand continues to grow.
Whether you are transitioning from the military, changing careers, returning to the workforce, or building a foundation straight out of high school, you will gain hands-on experience with the tools, systems, and frameworks used in modern security operations. As a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD), the program blends technical depth with applied learning to prepare you for industry certification exams and entry into the cybersecurity workforce.
Hands-On, Job-Focused
Training
Gain practical experience through hands-on labs, simulations, and scenarios designed to reflect real cybersecurity work. Coursework aligns with the Department of Defense Cyber Workforce Framework and the NICE Workforce Framework, ensuring skills are grounded in nationally recognized standards. You will build experience with operating systems, networks, security tools, and defensive techniques used across the cybersecurity field.
Experienced Faculty and Personalized Instruction
Learn from instructors with real-world experience in cybersecurity and IT who bring practical insight into the classroom. Small class sizes support individualized instruction, meaningful mentorship, and direct access to faculty. Instructors are invested in helping students succeed academically and professionally, both during the program and beyond graduation.
Your Path Forward in
Cybersecurity
Graduate with the skills, confidence, and foundation needed to pursue entry-level cybersecurity and IT roles with security responsibilities. The program supports career paths such as cybersecurity analyst, systems administrator, security technician, and security-focused IT support positions. Whether you are starting a first career or building a second one, the program is designed to help you take the next step forward.
Program Overview / Curriculum Snapshot
Associate Degree
Cybersecurity (A25590CY)
Program Length: 5 Semesters
Prerequisite: High School Diploma & Placement Test Equivalent
Award: Associate in Applied Science
Skills You Will Learn
- Recognize and respond to real-world cyber threats like phishing, malware, and system breaches
- Protect computers, networks, and data using modern cybersecurity practices
- Understand how networks and operating systems work, and how attackers exploit them
- Secure and manage Windows and Linux systems in hands-on lab environments
- Apply network defense, firewalls, and intrusion detection to safeguard systems
- Investigate security incidents and make ethical, informed decisions
- Build confidence, communication, and problem-solving skills for cybersecurity careers
Certificates You Can Earn
A certificate program is a short, focused set of college-credit courses designed to help you explore cybersecurity or build skills in a specific subject area without committing to a full degree.
Cyber Crime Analysis Certificate
(C25590C16)
Program Length: 2 Semesters
Prerequisite: Placement Test Equivalent
Cyber Security Operations Certificate
(C25590C17)
Program Length: 2 Semesters
Prerequisite: Placement Test Equivalent
Linux
Certificate
(C25590C10)
Program Length: 3 Semesters
Prerequisite: Placement Test Equivalent
Network Defense Certificate
(C25590C21)
Program Length: 2 Semesters
Prerequisite: Placement Test Equivalent
Certifications You Can Earn
Certifications are industry-recognized exams that demonstrate your technical knowledge to employers. Students may take courses within the program that prepare them for these certification exams.
EC-Council
🎓 Program Licensure Disclosure
The IT/Cybersecurity degree program is designed to meet the educational requirements for the CompTIA Security+ certification in North Carolina. Please review the disclosure chart below for information regarding certification requirements in other states.
💬 Student Testimonial
“The biggest thing for me has been the support. When I was in my early years of school, it always felt like it was me against the instructors, but here at FTCC, I’ve really found that they want everybody to succeed. They want to make sure that you have the tools, resources, and the opportunities to do so, and that has been game-changing for me.”
— Dan, FTCC Cybersecurity Student
Program Costs
| Item | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $3,952 ($76/credit hour) | $13,936 ($268.00/credit hour) |
| Fees | $1,680 (280 x 6 semesters) | $1,680 (280 x 6 semesters) |
| Books | ~$1,500 | ~$1,500 |
| Supplies | $100–$200 | $100–$200 |
| Certification exams are optional and not included in tuition. Students may choose to purchase exam vouchers at a discounted academic rate (approximately 50% off). Most certification exams cost around $250, though some, such as CEH, are higher. | ||
| Estimated Total (excluding any certification exams) |
$7,332 | $17,316 |
Meet the Staff
💻 Cybersecurity Program FAQs
Do I need to have any background in IT to join this program?
No experience needed! This program begins with foundational IT courses and builds your skills each semester. There are no prerequisites or entry exams required.
Can this program be completed entirely online?
Yes! The Cybersecurity program is offered 100% online. Course formats and durations may vary each semester with 8-week and 16-week options.
What topics are covered in the Cybersecurity program?
You’ll study networking, operating systems, security fundamentals, Linux/Windows administration, intrusion detection, and secure communications. Electives include Ethical Hacking, Digital Forensics, Red Hat OpenShift, and AI & Machine Learning. Over 1,000 hours of hands-on labs ensure real-world readiness.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The program typically takes five semesters to complete, though timing depends on your schedule and course load.
Are there internship or hands-on learning opportunities?
Yes! Students can apply for internships like Jr. SOC Analyst, Instructional Lab Technician, or AI Data Labeling Technician—each offering valuable real-world experience.
Do I need a laptop or special supplies?
A laptop isn’t required, but you’ll need reliable internet access. Students can also use FTCC’s open lab in General Classroom Building Room 219 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.) for tutoring and coursework.
What is the typical class size?
On-campus classes average 20–25 students; online sections typically have up to 30, ensuring personalized attention and support.
How do I apply to the program?
Start your application here:
Select program code A25590CY – Cybersecurity. Once accepted, an advisor will help you plan your courses.
Who can I contact for more information?
Contact Rhiannon Holley, Department Chair, at holleyr@faytechcc.edu or (910) 486-7309.
FTCC's Cyber Education Center
The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated Fayetteville Technical Community College as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Two-Year Education (CAE2Y)
Students can choose several options to obtain this recognition as well as receive your degree credential. Review options under program options. In addition industry level IT certifications are highly recommended after completing certificate related courses.
