Information Systems Security

Traits, skills and aptitudes

People working in the cyber security analysis field tend to be innovative, objective and directive.

You need:

• analytical skills
• speaking and writing skills
• an inquiring and inventive mind
• an eye for details
• patience and an organized approach to troubleshooting
• decision-making and problem-solving skills
• math and science skills
• teaching skills
• time-management skills.

You should enjoy being innovative, working with others or independently and doing your work with precision. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

You can participate in an optional co-op work term between your first and second year, where you can apply what you’ve learned in a work environment and build relationships with a potential employer.

In your second year, you’ll also participate in a capstone project where you’ll investigate issues across several different areas and propose a solution.

Accreditations, designations or certifications

Once you graduate, you’ll be prepared with the knowledge to challenge the Security+ and Comp Tia+ exams and earn your certifications. 

Credential

Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll be awarded a SAIT Information Systems Security diploma.

Program length

2 years

Accepts international applicants - PGWP-eligible

This program accepts international applicants and meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, as long as the student is registered in on-campus classes or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for blended options). 

International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies. 

Not eligible for CAJG

This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant. 

Related careers

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Potential careers (NOC):

• Computer and information systems managers (20012)
• Data scientists (21211)
• Cybersecurity specialists (21220)
• Business systems specialists (21221)
• Information systems specialists (21222)
• Web designers (21233)
• Computer network and web technicians (22220)
• User support technicians (22221)
• Information systems testing technicians (22222)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

• at least 65% in Math 30-1 or 70% in Math 30-2, and 
• at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 65% in English Language Arts 30-2.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options. 

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline

The Information Systems Security diploma requires 60 credits (20 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

Required courses

• COMM 256 - Professional Communications and Presentation Skills 3 Credits
• ITSC 200 - Secure Networking Fundamentals 3 Credits
• ITSC 201 - Military and Strategic Studies 3 Credits
• ITSC 202 - Programming Essentials 3 Credits
• ITSC 203 - Scripting for Tool Construction 3 Credits
• ITSC 204 - Computer Architecture 3 Credits
• ITSC 205 - Operating Systems Internals 3 Credits
• ITSC 206 - Offensive and Defensive Networking 3 Credits
• ITSC 301 - Wireless Security 3 Credits
• ITSC 302 - Web Application Security 3 Credits
• ITSC 303 - Malware Analysis 3 Credits
• ITSC 304 - Operating System Exploitation 3 Credits
• ITSC 305 - Internet of Things Systems 3 Credits
• ITSC 306 - Computer Forensics 3 Credits
• ITSC 307 - Compliance and Encryption 3 Credits
• ITSC 308 - Security Policies and Operations 3 Credits
• ITSC 309 - Social Engineering 3 Credits
• LAWG 200 - Security Practice and the Canadian Legal System 3 Credits
• PROJ 309 - Capstone Project 3 Credits
• STAT 245 - Statistics for Engineering and Technology I 3 Credits

Optional courses

• CPWK 255 - Cooperative Work Term 0 Credits

Suggested schedule of study

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a power-user hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page. 

Your textbooks will be discussed in class. You will not need to purchase them ahead of time.

Required equipment/tools

You’ll require an:

• Electronic kit
• Wireless access point
• Sensor kit
• Computer network port or network dongle
• Cloud computing services subscription (approximately $800 - $1,200 per year.)

Please wait for your instructors to provide further direction before purchasing equipment.

Advanced Digital Technology program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School for Advanced Digital Technology.

Phone: 403.284.8543
Email: sadt.advising@sait.ca 

Program outcomes

1. Analyze existing systems for vulnerabilities.
2. Design exploits to expose vulnerabilities in systems.
3. Analyze data for exceptions to normal operations.
4. Deploy a vulnerability response system.
5. Implement data security systems.
6. Exercise appropriate legal practices and ethical codes of conduct.
7. Analyze risks, costs and benefits associated with the security of business processes.
8. Expose security deficiencies through the use of social engineering.
9. Demonstrate effective oral, written and presentation skills.