Earn your bachelor’s in cybersecurity at ACC. Upgrade your associate degree with a cybersecurity specialization to Austin Community College’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity, and earn a four-year bachelor’s degree by building directly on already-earned credit hours. The two-year AAS-to-BAS degree track was launched to prepare current students and working professionals for booming job growth in Cybersecurity across Texas at affordable ACC tuition costs.
-
What Does a Cybersecurity Specialist Do?
Cybersecurity specialists analyze networks, investigate security breaches, and design secure systems to prevent attacks. It’s a constant game of cat and mouse, as attacks become more brazen and the stakes go ever higher. Continue reading -
When it comes to software developer job skills, coding is just one area of expertise. Successful software developers need to understand general programming language concepts and structure, database architecture, and network infrastructure. Continue reading
Why Get a Bachelor’s in Cybersecurity?
A bachelor’s in cybersecurity prepares IT professionals for a successful career in network security across all industries, with nationwide projections of 33% job growth by 2033. A Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity takes your education and career further, as many mid- to senior-level positions and employers require a bachelor’s degree.
Advanced cybersecurity training is taught by computer information technology specialists, providing credentials based on the needs of local employers and industries.
Coursework includes:
- Network infrastructure hardware and software
- Programming
- AI in cybersecurity
- Cloud security
- Penetration testing and security troubleshooting
- Security planning and policy
- Legal and ethical implications of cyber incidents
- Capstone Project: Secure system design
Note: Students are selected for the BAS program through an application process. Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the program. Check the program website for admission details.
Earn Your BAS in Cybersecurity: How to Get Started
Students new to ACC must complete our admissions process. If you are a previous ACC student, you will not need to re-apply. However, you may need to contact ACC Admissions and Enrollment to ensure your information is up-to-date.
Spring 2025 Application Deadline : October 11th by midnight
Applicants must have obtained junior status, as defined as having earned at least 60 college-level semester hours in Cybersecurity, Network Administration, or related field and 12 credit hours of the following (or equivalent) cybersecurity coursework:
- ITSY 2300 – Operating Systems Security
- ITSY 2301 – Firewalls and Network Security
- ITSY 2330 – Intrusion Detection: Ethical Hacking
- ITSY 2343 – Computer System Forensics
Students are selected for the BAS program through an open application process that starts with attending a free information session by the Cybersecurity BAS faculty and staff. Check ACC’s Cybersecurity program website for up-to-date application submission dates and free session details, or reach out to us directly for more information.
Career & Salary Information
View Possible Careers in Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity Program FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Get a Cybersecurity Degree?
A bachelor’s in cybersecurity is a four-year degree that can be completed in 2 years across 8 semesters of full-time coursework, building on your associate program. Students who are in the process of earning an associate degree in IT or a related field with 12 hours of specialized coursework can apply to start classes in Spring or Fall, and may be required to meet on-campus or online with an ACC Area of Study advisor.
Is the Cybersecurity BAS a traditional degree program or part of Continuing Education at ACC?
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity is an academic program and is not part of the continuing education track.
What are the requirements to get into the BAS Cybersecurity program?
Cybersecurity Program Requirements
Students must meet the following criteria:
- Must have reached junior status, as defined as having earned at least 60 college-level semester hours in:
- Cybersecurity
- Network Administration
- Or related field
- Have successfully completed 12 credit hours of cybersecurity courses composed of the following or equivalent from another school:
- ITSY 2300 – Operating Systems Security
- ITSY 2301 – Firewalls and Network Security
- ITSY 2330 – Intrusion Detection: Ethical Hacking
- ITSY 2343 – Computer System Forensics
- Have a GPA of 3.0 or better
Can I start working on this program before I get my AAS in Cybersecurity?
Students currently enrolled in the AAS in Cybersecurity program who plan to get their BAS should focus on completing their associate degree.The AAS covers the prerequisite courses for the BAS.
Will credits from my AAS in Cybersecurity or related ACC program apply to the BAS degree?
Related Degree Credits
Students who have an AAS in Cybersecurity or in a related degree from ACC must have completed 12 credit hours of cybersecurity courses to be eligible for the BAS degree program. Students should discuss their particular degree and credits with an advisor.
Can any credits I earn in a different ACC program be applied to the Cybersecurity BAS?
You can compare the award plans and program maps to see if you have credits that are applicable to this degree. Students should discuss their degree and credits with their advisor to see what prerequisites they will need to be eligible for this program.
Can credits earned from another college or university be applied to the BAS Cybersecurity?
Transcripts and Credit Hours
Students who already have a degree must provide transcripts from their college or university with their application. ACC will determine which of those credits apply to the college in general and to the BAS in Cybersecurity in particular. In addition, in order to be eligible for this program, students must have the following:
- Must have reached junior status, as defined as having earned at least 60 college-level semester hours in:
- Cybersecurity
- Network Administration
- Or related field
- Have successfully completed 12 credit hours of cybersecurity courses, comprised of the following or equivalent from another school:
- ITSY 2300 – Operating Systems Security
- ITSY 2301 – Firewalls and Network Security
- ITSY 2330 – Intrusion Detection: Ethical Hacking
- ITSY 2343 – Computer System Forensics
- Have a GPA of 3.0 or better
How will this program prepare me for a career in cybersecurity?
The BAS Cybersecurity will focus on the skills that employers are looking for to safeguard their networks, their data, and their people. It provides coursework and hands-on work with:
- Network infrastructure
- Programming
- Cloud security
- Penetration testing and security troubleshooting
- Security planning and policy
- Secure system design
Can I start the BAS Cybersecurity in the spring or summer semesters?
Students can start in either the fall or spring semesters; there are currently no classes during the summer for this program.
I have work experience in cybersecurity. Can I get credit for this experience in the BAS program?
At the present time we do not equate work experience to college credit. If you have CompTia A+, Security+, or Net+ current certification, that will count as courses.
Application Steps
- Attend a free information session
- Complete online application and submit relevant transcript and other required information
- Submit application by semester due date
After you apply:
- Department faculty reviews applications
- Students receive notification emails
- Students must sign and return acceptance letter
- Students meet with advisor and register for classes
Awards & Program Maps
Choose the Award Path That’s Right for You
ACC offers stackable credentials. Certificates prepare you for a career change or career advancement and often include credits that count toward associate degrees. Associate degrees further increase your employability and help you build a strong foundation for university transfer. Learn about credential options.
Explore awards and follow the program maps below to stay on track.
| Program | Award Type | Award Title | Award Plan | Program Map | Optional Mode | Catalog Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Information Technology | Bachelor of Applied Science Degree | Cybersecurity | Award Plan | Program Map | PCCIS |
Academic Department Contacts
| Academic Program | First Name | Last Name | Phone | Department Website | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity | Mary | Kohls | Call | Send Email | Visit Website |