Cybersecurity
Information Assurance
Associate of Applied Science
Overview
The Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance at Laredo College prepares students to safeguard critical systems and data in today’s digital environments. Designed to address the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals, the program blends foundational theory with real-world, hands-on learning across network security, digital forensics, and cyber defense operations.
Students will engage with topics such as:
- Network fundamentals and secure configurations
- Firewalls, intrusion detection, and countermeasures
- Incident response and risk assessment
- Digital forensics, evidence handling, and analysis
- Security auditing, scripting, and ethical hacking
Courses emphasize current industry practices and prepare students to identify vulnerabilities, respond to cyber threats, and protect organizational assets. The program culminates in a well-rounded knowledge base supporting career opportunities and industry certifications such as Security+, Network+, or CyberOps Associate.
Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Technician, Information Assurance Specialist, or Junior Security Auditor. Career opportunities exist in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies, law enforcement, financial institutions, and managed security service providers (MSSPs).
Salaries vary depending on education, experience, and certifications. For more information on course sequencing, program outcomes, and admissions, visit the Information tab.
Information
Admission Information
The student seeking admission to the Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance program must:
- Be admitted as an LC student
- A student must reapply if they last attended more than one year ago.
- Visit https://www.applytexas.org/ for more information.
- Ensure you have an LC Palomino ID and access to your LC student email before applying.
- Meet TSI Readiness Requirements
- Applicants must be TSI Ready in Reading, Writing, and Math to be eligible for program consideration.
- Sign the Code of Ethics Document
- All applicants must read, acknowledge, and sign the Information Assurance Code of Ethics form before submission.
- Program Interview
- Eligible applicants will participate in a program interview to assess their readiness, motivation, and alignment with program goals.
Plan of Study
| Recommended Course Sequence | Semesters Offered | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | ||
| ITNW 1325 - Foundamentals of Network Technologies | Fall | 3 |
| ITSY 1442 - Information Technology Security | Fall | 4 |
| ITSY 2401 - Firewalls and Network Security | Fall | 4 |
| ITSY 2441 - Security Management Practices | Fall | 4 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 2 | ||
| ITSY 2330 - Intrusion Detection | Spring | 3 |
| ITSY 2442 - Incident Response & Handling | Spring | 4 |
| ITSY 2445 - Network Defense and Counter Measures | Spring | 4 |
| ITSY 2459 - Security Assessment and Auditing | Spring | 4 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 3 | ||
| ITDF 1400 - Introduction to Digital Forensics | Fall | 4 |
| ITDF 2425- Digital Forensics Tools | Fall | 4 |
| ITDF 2420 - Digital Forensics Collections | Fall | 4 |
| ITDF 2330 - Digital Forensics Analysis | Fall | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Semester 4 | ||
| ENGL 1301 - Composition I - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective - Math Elective - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective - American History, Government, Political Science, Social & Behavioral Science - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective – Language Philosophy, Culture & Creative Arts - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| Elective – Life and Physical Sciences - CORE | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| AAS DEGREE MINIMUM: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS/PATHWAY TOTAL: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS | ||
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Cybersecurity - Information Assurance Pathway