College of Western Idaho celebrated 15 years of its Information Technology programs with a showcase event highlighting student success, industry partnerships, and the future of tech education.
Read more about Nearing 1,000 Program Graduates, CWI Celebrates 15 Years of Innovation in ITCybersecurity
Practical Training for High-Demand Cybersecurity Careers
Program Overview
Are you ready to become a key player in the fight against cyber threats? At College of Western Idaho (CWI), the Cybersecurity program is designed just for you, preparing you to safeguard systems in our digitally-driven world. Understanding of computer technology, Internet navigation, and file management is essential, and we are here to elevate your skills. You have two paths to choose from: a traditional, two-year, in-person option beginning each fall or an accelerated 18-month, hyflex option with entry points during select semesters. Request more information to learn more.
Certified with the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations Program (CAE-CD), issued by the National Security Agency (NSA), our program immerses you in hands-on lab work, simulating real cyber threats. You will learn from professionals who have been in the trenches of cybersecurity, gaining insights only experience can teach. Whether you are aiming for certifications like CompTIA’s Network+ or CYSA or preparing for a high-demand cybersecurity role, this program is your stepping stone. Get ready to be at the forefront of digital defense, equipped with knowledge and skills that make a difference.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Applied Science
Advanced Technical Certificate
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Location
Learning Opportunities
- Face Real-World Challenges: Engage in hands-on labs where you will tackle actual cybersecurity scenarios.
- Learn from the Experts: Gain insights from instructors who bring their real-world cybersecurity experiences into the classroom.
- Achieve National Recognition: Benefit from a program celebrated for its excellence in cyber defense education.
- Certification-Ready: Prepare yourself for important cybersecurity certifications, enhancing your professional profile including CompTIA A+, Network+, Linux+, Security+, CYSA+, Server+, and Cloud+.
- Choose Your Learning Path: Select between a comprehensive two-year journey or an accelerated online path tailored to your lifestyle.
Cyber Defense Center
CWI's Cyber Defense Center offers cybersecurity awareness, best practices, news, events, and activities for Idaho communities, businesses, partners, and students while striving to advance U.S. Federal Government, State of Idaho, and industry initiatives in cyber defense.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Cybersecurity – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $11,058
Cybersecurity - Advanced Technical Certificate
Certificate Requirements
Cost: $10,122
Career Opportunities
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
93
Annual Openings*
$62.56
Hourly Median Wage*
$130,125
Annual Median Salary
28.66%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Install, configure, and maintain an organization’s local area network , wide area network , data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.
49
Annual Openings*
$40.54
Hourly Median Wage*
$84,323
Annual Median Salary
12.19%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Information Security Analysts
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.
47
Annual Openings*
$48.84
Hourly Median Wage*
$101,587
Annual Median Salary
31.27%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Computer Network Architects
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks , wide area networks , intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
34
Annual Openings*
$54.11
Hourly Median Wage*
$112,549
Annual Median Salary
9.25%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks , wide area networks , cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
25
Annual Openings*
$30.14
Hourly Median Wage*
$62,691
Annual Median Salary
17.17%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Database Administrators
Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.
11
Annual Openings*
$36.18
Hourly Median Wage*
$75,254
Annual Median Salary
18.92%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Database Architects
Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality.
11
Annual Openings*
$63.64
Hourly Median Wage*
$132,371
Annual Median Salary
16.75%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Testimonial Carousel
“I have learned so much about the dangers of using an unprotected computer and the dangers of websites that I am more cautious about what I do, what I share, and who I share with. I would highly recommend this program for anyone who is interested in protecting their privacy, their identity, and educating others on the dangers of ignorance concerning your technical life.
”
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Cybersecurity as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Lab Spaces
View the College’s state-of-the art lab spaces where you will receive hands-on, comprehensive career training.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Related Programs
Clubs
Business Professionals of America
College of Western Idaho is proud to be part of Business Professionals of America (BPA), the leading Career and Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology, and other related career fields.
SkillsUSA
College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.
News
College of Western Idaho has approved a public-private partnership with Ahlquist Development to build a new Boise campus, creating a centralized, mixed-use space focused on student success and...
Read more about CWI Board Greenlights Public-Private Partnership for New Boise Campus
Mindy Young, a Professor in the Computer Science and Information Technology Department, has been honored as Faculty of Distinction for December 2024 at College of Western Idaho.
Read more about Young Named Faculty of Distinction for December 2024
Juniors from area high schools experienced hands-on instruction and explored career paths during the CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program.
Read more about High School Juniors Cross Off Skills at CWI Summer CTE Bridge Program
CWI has a fun and exciting summer camp for middle and high school students!
Read more about Don’t Wait! Register Now for CWI Summer Camps
Eight students from CWI achieve top-ten finishes in multiple competitions at the BPA National Conference.
Read more about CWI Students Garner Multiple Awards at National Business Professionals of America Conference
CWI is hosting a week-long cyber summer camp for high school students that will teach the basics of cybersecurity, computers, and IT.
Read more about Cyber Summer Camp Open for Registration
CWI’s Cybersecurity program was ranked 22 out of 150 Associate of Applied Science programs nationally in a new ranking by Cybersecurity Guide.
Read more about CWI Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Associate Degree Program
Work-Based Learning Center is proud to host a Technology Job Fair on Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Ada County Center Pintail Building.
Read more about Explore Exciting Opportunities at Technology Job Fair
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. CWI Information Technology Department has some tips and information to help you protect yourself from malware and scams.
Read more about Cybersecurity Awareness: Malware and Fake Online Advertisements
The Cyber Defense Center is hosting a five-day summer camp that introduces students to the world of cybersecurity.
Read more about Jump Into the World of Cybersecurity through Raspberry Pi Summer Camp
The week-long daytime event is aimed at teaching high school students the basics of computing, cybersecurity, and information technology through a hands-on, fun, and engaging experience.
Read more about CWI and Boise State Host Cyber Summer CampRequest More Information
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