Computer Security and Investigations

 

Program Highlights

• Advanced Ethical Hacking
• Threat and Risk Analysis
• Information Security
• Advanced Computer Forensics
• Internet and Hacking Investigations
• CISCO Network Design and Management
• Network Security
• Criminology
• Justice Studies

 

Why Choose Fleming?

•  CCNA – Cisco Certified Network Architect
• CCE – Certified Computer Examiner
•    Security+
• Network+
•  A+
•   Linux+
•   MCSE – Microsoft Certified System Engineer
•    CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional (student level qualification)

 

Work Experience

In your final semester, you will work on an intensive team project. Each member of the team will contribute specialized knowledge, learned in his or her program of study, to the solution of a real world technological problem posed by a sponsoring business or organization. Recent projects include:

• Cooperative placements within financial and forensic firms, working real cases.
• Cooperative placements within corporate security departments.
• Security and penetration testing of a large Internet Service Provider
• Forensic analysis and creation of standards for a security corporation
• Development of a Linux based Darknet and Intrusion Detection system for a professional penetration testing company.

This project will enhance problem-solving skills, applied industry knowledge, and the ability to work as part of a team. You'll also learn critical workplace skills such as time management, how to map a critical path, and presentation skills. Since you may be working on sophisticated developmental or research based work, sponsors will often use the project as a testing ground and recruitment opportunity.

 

What it Takes to Succeed

• excellent oral and written communication skills
• good problem solving skills
• creative and analytical thinking skills
• previous computing experience
• able to keep a cool head in a crisis
• research and investigative skills and interest
• desire to learn and be challenged
• strong time management skills

 

 

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities are available in both public and private sector organizations. Job titles include:

• Information Technology Security Analyst
• Information Security Administrator
• Computer Security Consultant
• Investigator
• Network Security Specialist
• Computer Forensics Examiner
• Digital Investigative Specialist

Starting salaries for many positions are $40,000 to $60,000. Industry surveys identify that IT security professionals, with the security skills you will acquire, consistently earn higher income than others in the industry.

 

 

Minimum Admission Requirements

OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including:

• 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
• 2 College (C) Math courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)

When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted.

Mature Students
If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission.

 Advanced Standing

 Do you have another college diploma, or have you completed other technology courses at another college or university? You may be eligible for advanced standing entry to the Computer Security and Investigations program. With this fast track option, you can quickly complete the program and become qualified to enter the field of computer security. Contact the program coordinator to find out how you can take advantage of this opportunity.

 

Selection Process

 

University Transfer Agreements

• University of Ontario Institute of Technology
• University of Western Sydney

Course	Hours
Semester 1
Technical Communications	60.00
Applied Mathematics for Technology I	60.00
Computer Hardware	45.00
Digital Crime & Profiling	21.00
Intro to Cyber Trends & Digital Evidence	21.00
Introduction to Canadian Justice System	45.00
Software Fundamentals	60.00
Semester 2
Criminology	45.00
Cyber Law	45.00
Introduction to Information Security	21.00
Network Fundamentals	60.00
Operating Systems I	45.00
PERL	45.00
Risk Management	21.00
Technology Teams	45.00
Semester 3
Computer and Network Security	45.00
Emergency Management & Operational Security	45.00
Internet Investigations	45.00
Managing Technical Projects	45.00
Operating Systems II	45.00
Routing Protocols and Concepts	45.00
General Education Elective
Semester 4
Accessing the WAN	45.00
Criminal Procedures	45.00
Digital Investigation	45.00
Info Management & Cryptography	45.00
Intro to Pentesting & Intrusion Analysis	45.00
LAN Switching and Wireless	45.00
Semester 5
Advanced Investigations	45.00
Advanced Pentesting	45.00
Computer Forensics	45.00
Firewalls and Intrusion Detection	45.00
Security Architecture Data Management	45.00
Working With Business and Industry	45.00
Semester 6
Applied Project - CSI	350.00

Semester 1

Technical Communications

Course Number: COMM032

This course, designed specifically for students in technology-based programs, stresses the development of technical communication as it applies to workplace and academic needs. Students will prepare a variety of technical documents and in the process learn to apply standard rules of usage. Key applications include lab reports, proposals, research reports, documenting sources, editing and proofreading strategies, and spoken presentations.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Applied Mathematics for Technology I

Course Number: MATH018

This course is designed to prepare the student mathematically for a variety of technical areas. The intention is that students successfully completing the course: will make accurate calculations of applied problems involving approximate numbers using accepted engineering rules; perform basic algebraic operations involving fundamental concepts in order to properly manipulate algebraic formulae; recognize and solve technical problems requiring the concepts of ratio and proportion; identify mathematical functions and use EXCEL to prepare graphs of those functions; apply a basic routine to solve linear equations emphasizing the solutions of linear formulae; recognize exponential and logarithmic functions and use EXCEL to graph these functions using both normal and semi-logarithmic scales; recognize and solve technical problems requiring quadratic equations. Emphasis will be placed on appropriate use of computer spreadsheets as a problem-solving tool. Data and formulae from the first semester case study will be integrated as much as possible into the first semester mathematics curriculum.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Computer Hardware

Course Number: COMP191

In this course, the student learns and practices the fundamentals of supporting and troubleshooting computer hardware. With hands-on exercises with dedicated PCs, students will learn the knowledge and skills needed to install, build, upgrade, repair, configure, troubleshoot, optimize, diagnose, and perform preventative maintenance of basic personal computer hardware. The course also covers solder practice and solutions to some common operating system issues. Students will also run a simple computer clinic as a capstone project or undertake a placement at a computer service business.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Digital Crime & Profiling

Course Number: COMP032

Computers and computer networks can be a source of evidence in a wide range of crimes: including crimes that are not committed using computers (e.g., homicide and rape). In addition to containing incriminating evidence, computers record actions and words, functioning as an archive of individuals' behaviors. Investigators can take advantage of the behavioral archive aspect of computers but often overlook this opportunity. Specifically, this course teaches participants how to interpret digital evidence and include it in the development of a criminal profile.

Units: 21.00
Hours: 21.00

Intro to Cyber Trends & Digital Evidence

Course Number: COMP054

Cyber crime has been described as one of the fastest evolving areas of criminal behaviour and poses a significant threat. In this course, the student will develop an appreciation of the prevalence of computer crime and the significance of digital evidence in its investigation. The course provides an overview of the tools and standard operating procedures for handling evidence stored on standalone computers, networks, and the Internet.

Units: 21.00
Hours: 21.00

Introduction to Canadian Justice System

Course Number: LAWS044

This course provides an introductory overview of the Canadian Justice System, with special emphasis on the criminal justice system and the responsibilities of enforcement personnel. Contemporary issues affecting the system will be analyzed and discussed.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Software Fundamentals

Course Number: COMP086

This course provides a foundation for a variety of topics in Applied Computing and Engineering Science including algorithmic solutions and the algorithmic process, information processing, computer programming as well as the system development life cycle. This introduction will focus on algorithmic design and computer solutions using object oriented principles. Lecture material will provide an introduction to the theory and logic behind today's computer oriented society and computer programming in an object oriented environment. Hands on computer labs will allow the student to apply and reinforce the principles of algorithm development and programming in an object oriented environment.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Semester 2

Criminology

Course Number: LAWS018

Our concern about crime and frustration over criminals are major issues that command our attention. Criminology is a multidisciplinary field that helps us understand and take action. Historically, it has offered many explanations that have influenced our reactions to and social policy toward crime and criminals. This course will consist of three main parts: definitions and measurement of crime, theories of crime, crime and society.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Cyber Law

Course Number: LAWS084

This course will provide the student with an ability to locate, understand and practically apply various sections of the Criminal Code of Canada and Other Federal Statutes in relation to Cyber Crime. The student will also gain an understanding of the various Civil remedies and issues related to cyber crime in Canada. Basic knowledge of Canadian Law is required.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Introduction to Information Security

Course Number: COMP058

Organizations today face the huge task of protecting and securing their network operations at many levels. In this course, students will explore common computer/network security systems design and architecture. The students will analyze/demonstrate common system flaws, viruses and access control methods. The use of software for access control administration and audit trails will be explored.

Units: 21.00
Hours: 21.00

Network Fundamentals

Course Number: COMP053

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Operating Systems I

Course Number: COMP091

Operating systems manage a computer's hardware and software resources. This course explores many concepts associated with operating systems using MS-DOS, Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 2000 Server and Linux as hands-on examples. The concepts include:file management, device management, memory management, processor management, process management and system management. A computer professional will manage and configure operating systems to enhance their speed, efficiency, and reliability using a sound knowledge of operating system principles. Often, they will configure the operating system when installing a new operating system, new application software and hardware to a computer system. Students should have competency in basic computer operations.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

PERL

Course Number: COMP234

Perl is a 'Practical Extraction and Report Language' freely available for Unix, MVS, VMS, MS/DOS, Macintosh, OS/2, Amiga, and other operating systems. It eclectically combines features and purposes of many command languages. Perl has enjoyed recent popularity for programming World Wide Web electronic forms and generally as glue and gateway between systems, databases, and users.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Risk Management

Course Number: COMP083

Every year businesses suffer significant economic loss from a variety of threats including hackers, theft or loss of information, fire, etc. In this course, students will develop processes for protecting against these threats to minimize loss. Students will become familiar with the roles and responsibilities of an IT Security professional in relation to the management of risk and the conduct of related threat assessments. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of effectively making business decisions and managing risks to reduce negative impacts to the business in a cost-effective manner.

Units: 21.00
Hours: 21.00

Technology Teams

Course Number: SOCI124

Learn about the movement towards getting work done through teams in organizations, and develop the knowledge and skills to thrive in this area. This course deals with both virtual teams as well as face-to-face teams. You will increase your skills in communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, meeting management and reporting, as well as dealing with diverse team behaviours and cultures. Accountability and recognition among other team skills will be learned to help move teams forward in a positive manner. This course meets the General Education requirements primarily in the areas of Work and the Economy and Social Understanding, as well as touching Civic Life, Personal Development, and Cultural Understanding.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 3

Computer and Network Security

Course Number: COMP013

Every year, companies all over the world lose millions of dollars due to lost or stolen information, network down-time and natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and fires. In most cases, many of these incidents could have been prevented or at least minimized if a security plan had been in place. Until recently, however, computer security was not taken very seriously by most companies. Now, companies are hiring computer security specialists to specifically formulate and implement a computer security plan. This course gives an overview of the technical and managerial aspects of computer and network security.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Emergency Management & Operational Security

Course Number: COMP038

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Internet Investigations

Course Number: COMP051

Every year businesses suffer significant economic loss from a variety of threats including intrusions, viruses, theft of data or loss of information. In this course, students will learn about the technical aspects of the Internet and how it can be used as an investigative tool. Students will conduct advanced Internet searches, locate the origin of e-mail messages, track criminals operating on the Internet, investigate computer crime and intrusions, and consider personal computers as an extension of the crime scene.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Managing Technical Projects

Course Number: ELCT020

This is a multi-disciplinary course designed to help students develop their skills in managing technical projects. Students will learn how to identify and plan a project and work toward achieving their project goals. They will interact with a team in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of the project goals. They will communicate in written, spoken, or visual format at various stages of the project. The course also includes evaluating the technical, interpersonal, and communication processes the team uses. Students will work on managing a project typical to one that a computer-systems professional would be involved in.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Operating Systems II

Course Number: COMP075

Operating systems manage a computer's hardware and software resources. This course explores many concepts associated with operating systems using Linux primarily in its hands-on examples. The concepts include: Power on Self Test, Hard Drive architecture, File system types, Operating System Hardening, Packet evaluation and details, scripts and their application, Administrators will manage and configure operating systems to enhance their Security and reliability using a sound knowledge of varied systems. Often, they will configure the operating system to best fit a customer's security and usability requirements. Students should have basic competency in DOS, Linux and Windows operating systems.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Routing Protocols and Concepts

Course Number: COMP371

This course describes the architecture, components and operation of routers and explains the principles of routing and routing protocols. Students analyze, configure, verify and troubleshoot the primary routing protocols RIPv1, RIPv2, EIGRP and OSPF. By the end of this course, students will be able to recognize and correct common routing issues and problems. Students complete a basic procedural lab, followed by basic configuration, implementation and troubleshooting labs in each chapter. Packet Tracer activities reinforce new concepts and allow students to model and analyze routing processes that may be difficult to visualize or understand.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 4

Accessing the WAN

Course Number: COMP092

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Criminal Procedures

Course Number: LAWS017

The outcome of a successful investigation will often be a criminal or civil proceeding against the perpetrator. However, despite careful evidence collection and analysis, one of the greatest difficulties to be overcome will be the presentation of such evidence to a jury or trier of fact in a manner that is understood and provides maximum support for the case. This course will provide the learner with an opportunity to develop the necessary skills to overcome these obstacles and prepare for their role as both a witness and investigator in legal proceedings. Each learner will be required to have the knowledge to assist in the preparation of crown briefs in support of investigative and prosecutorial objectives. The learner will also review relevant court room procedures, documents and legislation to prepare them for participation in trials and hearings.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Digital Investigation

Course Number: COMP033

Corporate investigators and law enforcement agents are increasingly called upon to perform investigations involving digital evidence. The legal system mandates that these investigations meet standards that protect the rights of all parties involved. In this course, students will learn to apply computer forensic methodology for the preservation of evidence and chain of custody to insure a scientifically reliable examination of that evidence.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Info Management & Cryptography

Course Number: COMP043

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Intro to Pentesting & Intrusion Analysis

Course Number: COMP265

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

LAN Switching and Wireless

Course Number: COMP070

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 5

Advanced Investigations

Course Number: COMP003

Every year businesses suffer significant economic loss from a variety of threats including intrusions, viruses, theft of data or loss of information. In this course, students will learn about the technical aspects of the Internet and how it can be used as an investigative tool. Students will conduct advanced responses to system compromises and Internet related crimes, including such activities as: searches, locate the origin of e-mail messages, track criminals operating on the Internet, investigate computer crime and intrusions, and consider personal computers as an extension of the crime scene.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Advanced Pentesting

Course Number: COMP357

This class will immerse the student into an interactive environment where they will be shown how to expand upon the basic penetration skills learned in previous courses. New skills will prepare students to scan, test, hack and secure their own systems. The lab intensive environment gives each student in-depth knowledge and practical experience on how to assess the risk to, and penetration test Linux and Windows networks, wireless networks, web servers and voip environments.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Computer Forensics

Course Number: COMP020

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Firewalls and Intrusion Detection

Course Number: COMP232

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS's) and Firewall Systems attempt to detect and prevent malicious activity among the thousands of packets which travel through corporate network infrastructures. In this course, students will learn, hands-on, how to install and configure software to implement an intrsusion detection system and a firewall system to counter and detect potential malcious attacks.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Security Architecture Data Management

Course Number: COMP085

Today's network incorporates all sorts of wanted but unsettling services. Voice data travels over the network. Files are shared, every new service represents possibilities for sales and also vulnerabilities. In this course students will gain knowledge in developing and applying a sound security framework that provides facilities for managing and protecting internet applications.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Working With Business and Industry

Course Number: GNED042

In Working with Business and Industry (WBI), you will prepare for the team-based project for an enterprise sponsor in your Applied Project (sixth semester). The enterprise sponsor is one who provides the setting for a real-world problem to form the basis of the project. WBI assists you in forming your team, selecting a project, understanding the project and finally delivering a project plan to your enterprise sponsor. WBI also assists you with understanding the nature of work in your sponsor's and other enterprises. This includes health and safety, company information, ethics, ergonomics, quality standards (such as ISO9000), etc. As well, you will further develop the team, communications, project management and technical skills required when choosing and implementing a full-time project. During two weekly breakout sessions your team, under mentor supervision, will develop the project plan. During the weekly common lecture hour, advisors provide general information about business and industry principles. You will apply these principles in the context of your specific project and sponsor. The final course deliverables are 1) The Project Plan: 2) Demonstration of understanding business and industry: 3) Health and Safety Proficiency. Your team will execute the project in the full-time Applied Project semester that follows.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 6

Applied Project - CSI

Course Number: APST011

In Applied Project, you continue the project, which was planned during the course Working with Business and Industry. This is a team-based project which you will execute full time (no timetable) for an enterprise sponsor. The enterprise sponsor is one who provides the setting for a real-world problem to form the basis of the project. Typically, it is back-burner project that is non-mission critical but can add real value to a sponsor's products and/or services. Most importantly, it will be a learning experience. You continue to work under the guidance of your faculty mentor. Interdisciplinary faculty advisors may assist with communication and team skills. Faculty experts provide assistance with technical skills.

Units: 350.00
Hours: 350.00