Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC), in partnership with the National Science Foundation (NSF), offers eligible high school students the opportunity to earn the Cybersecurity Fundamentals Technical Certificate of Credit (TCC) while still in high school.
Why Choose CYPHER?
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in a capstone project that applies real-world cybersecurity concepts. Opportunities may include mentorship and a final showcase with industry professionals.
- College Credit & Career Readiness: Earn a college credential that sets you up for continued study or entry into a high-demand field.
- Funding Support: Tuition and mandatory college fees are covered for eligible students. With NSF support, all CIST course fees for this pathway are covered, and students have the opportunity to sit for the CompTIA A+ certification exam at no cost.
What the Pathway Includes (Courses)
- CIST 1001 – Computer Concepts (4) – Overview of information systems, hardware, software, networking, internet basics, security, ethics, data storage, mobile computing, and number system conversions. Can test out!
- CIST 1122 – Hardware Installation & Maintenance (4) – Fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security; prepares students for the CompTIA A+ exam.
- CIST 1401 – Computer Networking Fundamentals (4) – LAN/WAN, protocols, cabling, TCP/IP, and network security; prepares for CompTIA Network+.
- CIST 1601 – Information Security Fundamentals (3) – Core security concepts, systems development/implementation, and legal/ethical issues in information security.
- CIST 1602 – Security Policies & Procedures (3) – Development and maintenance of security policies covering physical, personnel, OS, network, and database layers; create an Information Security Policy and Acceptable Use Policy.
Costs & Funding
- Tuition & Mandatory College Fees: Covered for eligible students (per GSFC/dual enrollment guidelines).
- Course Fees for CIST Classes: Covered by the NSF grant for this program.
- Certification: Opportunity to take the CompTIA A+ exam covered.
Who Should Apply?
Motivated high school students with at least a 2.0 GPA who are interested in IT, networking, and cybersecurity who are ready for college-level coursework and hands-on learning.
How to Get Started
- Apply to GPTC: Complete a GPTC application (application instructions).
- Complete Dual Enrollment Participation Agreement:
- Send Your Transcript: Email an official/unofficial transcript with visible GPA to dualenrollment@gptc.edu. (You can locate a copy in Infinite Campus under “Documents.”)
- Complete the GAFutures Application for Funding
- Meet with the Team: Your counselor and GPTC will confirm eligibility, discuss funding, and map your course plan.
Questions?
Contact the GPTC Dual Enrollment team at dualenrollment@gptc.edu or 404.297.9522 x1313.