Program Description
The Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate program addresses the business risks specific to securing control systems in sectors such as drilling and well sites, power plants, power grid, water plants, manufacturing, production lines, telecommunications, and hospitals. Many of these systems were previously analog-based, but are currently networked and digital, placing them at greater risk for cyber-attacks. Many of the concepts will be similar to those used to secure information in technology systems, but the training will focus on the specific constraints of securing control systems in the industrial environment. It is applicable to employees of organizations relying on technology, whether their cybersecurity focus is on information technology (IT), industrial control systems (ICS), cyber-physical systems (CPS), or connected devices more generally, including the Internet of Things (IoT). Thus, while this program is focused on graduates who can improve cybersecurity risk management in control system environments, it can be used by graduates in many organizations - regardless of size, degree of cybersecurity risk, or cybersecurity sophistication - to apply the principles and best practices of risk management to improve safety, reliability, security and resilience of these systems.
Fast Facts
- Classroom delivery
- Applied learning environment
- Both Part-time and Full-time delivery
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
The Cyber Security for Control Systems program was developed to meet the needs of working professionals who want to specialize in this exciting field. As the program is being offered via part-time delivery, it is expected that students will provide their own laptop. Classes will be scheduled into e-learning labs with power outlets or networking labs as required. Wifi access is available to connect to the network and internet. Laptop specs should meet the following minimum requirements: i5 or i7 processor, 16 GB RAM, 500 GB storage. It may be necessary to subscribe to some specialized software for certain courses.
Your Career
Graduates may find employment as a Cyber Security Analyst/Specialist, ICS Security Analyst/Specialist, Industrial Technologist, ICS Infrastructure Analyst, SCADA Security Technologist or an Industrial Network/Systems/Security Analyst.
Student Success
This is an intensive program requiring a commitment of both time and energy; students who experience success are those who make their education a priority throughout the program.
We find there is a direct correlation between the time and energy invested to the amount of success achieved. Learners with strong time-management and discipline have a greater propensity to succeed.
Remaining focused and diligent with coursework is important for success in completing the program.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate for the Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate has a previous post-secondary diploma or degree. You have education and/or work experience in industrial systems (SCADA, PLCs, Instrumentation, etc.) and/or computer networking or related fields. You understand the importance of cyber security and are intrigued by the ways that critical infrastructure and operations technologies can be compromised and want to protect these assets. You have a strong ethical standard and a curious mind.
Get started as an undeclared student (part-time students only)
The courses in the Cyber Security for Control Systems program allow for registration into individual courses as an undeclared student without going through the SAIT application process first. It is important that you read the “Ideal Candidate” statement to be sure that you are a good fit for these courses. You may apply to complete the credential at any time through Apply Alberta at which time you will have to submit transcripts for entrance into the credential. You must complete all pre-requisite courses, or apply for prior learning assessment if you wish to get credit for a required course based on previous education or experience.
Credentials
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate.
Program Outcomes
Program Outcomes
1. Assess cyber security risk management programs to ensure adequate protection of an organization’s critical information and assets.
2. Apply Cyber Security Industrial Control Systems (ICS) standards, frameworks, guidelines and policies.
3. Detect attack methodologies, intrusions, or other suspicious attempts to gain unauthorized access to a system and its resources.
4. Impart contingency operations that include administrative planning process for incident response, disaster recover, and business continuity planning for cyber security.
5. Communicate short- and long-term organizational cybersecurity strategies and policies to a wide range of stakeholders.
6. Cite and comply with relevant industry and organizational codes of conduct and ethical practice.
7. Incorporate standards of service from business environment strategies into the industrial control system (ICS) environment.
8. Design and implement risk analysis policies and procedures.
SAIT Graduate Outcomes
A. Safety - Awareness of safety standards relevant to the workplace
1. Safety awareness
B. Responsible Leadership - Personal, ethical and respectful behavior within the workplace and global community
1. Teamwork and multi-disciplinary collaboration
2. Self-Initiative
3. Ethical reasoning and action
4. Global awareness
5. Sustainability
C. Communication - The exchange of information in a professional and effective manner
1. Language skills
2. Interpersonal skills
D. Information Literacy - The strategies used to become informed from recognizing an information need, to accessing and evaluating information and using it effectively and ethically
1. Problem solving and/or Critical thinking
2. Quantitative literacy
3. Technological literacy
E. Technical Knowledge, Skills and Abilities - Technical competence specific to the discipline or industry
1. Specialized, technical skill set
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