IT Security Specialist

Program Objective:

The IT Security Specialist program at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton is meticulously designed to prepare students for successful careers within the IT departments of various business establishments. A core focus of the program is to equip students with the practical skills necessary for effective PC troubleshooting, efficient hardware installation and upgrades, and the critical ability to establish and maintain secure IT networks. Recognizing the importance of industry certifications, the program thoroughly prepares students to confidently pursue and obtain industry-recognized IT certifications, specifically CompTIA A+, Server+, Network+, and Security+. 

Program Notes:

At Academy of Learning Career College Brampton, we believe in providing comprehensive support for our students. Therefore, tuition fees for the IT Security Specialist program include all essential materials and student manuals, eliminating any hidden costs. Furthermore, we understand that financing education is a significant consideration. As such, financial assistance may be available to students who meet the eligibility requirements. To ensure our graduates are well-prepared and meet industry standards, students are required to maintain a minimum program average of 75% to successfully obtain their certificate from Academy of Learning Career College Brampton.

Method of Delivery:

Academy of Learning Career College Brampton employs a flexible and effective "Method of Delivery" designed to cater to diverse learning styles and maximize student success. This approach incorporates a combination of:

• Integrated Learning™ System (ILS) training: This component features interactive, hands-on training facilitated by experienced Academy of Learning College facilitators, providing personalized guidance and support.
• Online training: Supplementing the ILS training, online modules offer flexibility and accessibility, supported by either Academy of Learning College facilitators or dedicated online instructors to ensure students receive comprehensive assistance throughout their learning journey.

Competencies upon Completion

Upon successful completion of the IT Security Specialist program at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton, graduates will have developed a comprehensive set of competencies, categorized as follows:

Core Courses

• PC Troubleshooting: Graduates will possess in-depth knowledge and practical skills in PC troubleshooting. This competency encompasses the ability to diagnose and resolve a wide range of hardware and software issues, ensuring the smooth operation of computer systems. A key component of this training prepares students for the CompTIA A+ certification exams:
  • CompTIA A+ Certification: 220-1001 (Core 1)
  • CompTIA A+ Certification: 220-1002 (Core 2) Earning these certifications validates a technician's ability to perform tasks such as installing, configuring, diagnosing, preventing, and basic networking.
• Computer Networking: Students will gain expertise in computer networking principles and practices. This includes the configuration, management, and maintenance of network infrastructure, as well as a strong understanding of network security. The program provides thorough preparation for the following CompTIA certifications:
  • CompTIA Network+: This certification validates the essential knowledge and skills needed to confidently design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot any wired and wireless devices. 
     
  • CompTIA Server+: This certification validates the knowledge and skills required to build, maintain, troubleshoot, secure, and support server hardware and software technologies.  
    
     
  • CompTIA Security+: This certification validates baseline cybersecurity skills and knowledge and covers essential principles for network security and risk management.
    
    
• Business Skills: Recognizing the importance of professional skills in the workplace, the program also incorporates essential business skills development:
  • Customer Service Essentials: Graduates will acquire the skills to provide excellent customer service, a crucial competency in any IT role.
  • Business Correspondence Level 1: Students will develop effective written communication skills, enabling them to produce professional business correspondence.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the IT Security Specialist program at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Completion of Grade 12 or its recognized equivalent.
• Mature Student Status: Individuals who do not possess a Grade 12 diploma or equivalent may be considered for admission under Mature Student Status, subject to specific college policies.

Academy of Learning Career College Brampton is committed to providing accessible education. Therefore, courses are open to any applicant who demonstrates a good command of the English language, both written and verbal, and possesses the ability to comprehend and follow instructions effectively.

As part of the admissions process at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton, an admissions interview will be conducted. This interview serves to determine if the applicant possesses the requisite interest, motivation, and entry-level skills deemed necessary for successful completion of the IT Security Specialist program.

To accommodate diverse student schedules, Academy of Learning Career College Brampton offers flexible scheduling options. Full-time students are required to attend the designated hours per week as outlined in the course schedule, and these hours can be arranged at times that are convenient for the student, where possible.

Program Prerequisites

Prospective students applying for the IT Security Specialist program at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton are expected to have certain foundational knowledge. Candidates must demonstrate basic proficiency in a Windows operating system environment and possess a working knowledge of Introduction to the Internet or its equivalent at the time of admission to the program. This prerequisite ensures that students have the fundamental computer literacy skills necessary to succeed in the more advanced technical coursework.

Required Skills and Personal Attributes

Success in the IT Security Specialist program and the IT field, in general, requires a specific set of skills and personal attributes. Academy of Learning Career College Brampton emphasizes the importance of these qualities and seeks to cultivate them in its students:

• PC Troubleshooting Skills: A solid foundation in PC troubleshooting is essential.
• Strong Interpersonal, Organizational, and Analytical Skills: Effective communication, organization, and the ability to analyze complex problems are crucial.
• Innovative Approach to Problem Solving: The IT field demands creative and innovative solutions to challenges.
• Effective Time Management Skills: The ability to manage time efficiently is vital for meeting deadlines and handling multiple tasks.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Applications: Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications is beneficial for documentation and communication.
• Ability to Work Independently: While collaboration is important, the ability to work independently and take initiative is also highly valued.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the IT Security Specialist program at Academy of Learning Career College Brampton are well-positioned to pursue a variety of rewarding careers within the dynamic IT field. The program's comprehensive training focuses on key areas such as troubleshooting, PC hardware expertise, and the increasingly critical domain of IT Security.

Successful candidates can find employment in roles that emphasize:

• Troubleshooting IT systems and resolving technical issues.
• Working with PC hardware, including installation, maintenance, and upgrades.
• Implementing and managing IT Security measures to protect organizational data and networks.

Academy of Learning Career College Brampton recognizes that upward mobility is a key factor in career satisfaction. Therefore, we emphasize that advancement opportunities in these vocations are readily available for individuals who demonstrate experience, motivation, dedication, and maintain a positive attitude in their professional endeavors.

Duties and Responsibilities

IT Security Specialist program graduates from Academy of Learning Career College Brampton will be prepared to undertake a wide range of essential duties and responsibilities, including:

• Evaluating, installing, and configuring computer hardware components, networking software applications, and operating system software. This includes ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
• Providing comprehensive problem-solving services and technical support to network users. This involves diagnosing and resolving hardware, software, and network-related issues in a timely and efficient manner.
• Performing critical data backups and implementing robust disaster recovery operations. These procedures are essential for safeguarding organizational data and ensuring business continuity in the event of system failures or unforeseen events.
• Ensuring that proper IT security measures are effectively implemented and diligently maintained. This includes staying abreast of the latest security threats and vulnerabilities and proactively upgrading security protocols to protect against cyberattacks and data breaches.