Graham Tasker works on a new server cabinet at Central Maine Community College, which is launching a new degree program in in Network Security/Computer Forensics

To help meet the growing need for qualified professionals in the area of technology security, Central Maine Community College (CMCC) is now offering a program in Network Security/Computer Forensics.

This associate degree option focuses on securing, testing, and analyzing information as it is stored, manipulated, and communicated across networks. The skills learned will give students a strong background in computer technology and networks, and graduates can choose to go directly into the workforce or transfer to a baccalaureate degree program. Graduates will be prepared to work as PC repair technicians, network security officers and analysts, network administrators, forensic analysts, and computer managers.

Courses offered this fall are Introduction to Visual Basic, Introduction to PC Repair/OS, and Linux Operating System. Other courses in the program include Networking, Server Administration, Introduction to Virtual Machines, Computer Forensics I and II, Network Security, Advanced Networking Concepts, and Penetration Testing.

This new degree program is made possible through “Maine is IT!,” a federally-funded initiative that is enabling Maine’s community colleges to add new programs, certificates, courses, and short-term training in information technology. As the lead institution for this grant, CMCC is adding new industry-recognized certifications, onsite testing, new and enhanced associate degree programs, and advanced certificates for those who already have associate degrees.

Applications for admission are now being accepted; open registration for fall courses starts July 7. For more information about the Network Security/Computer Forensics program or any other Maine is IT! program and scholarships at CMCC, contact Emily Butterfield at 755-5375 or ebutterfield@cmcc.edu or see online at www.cmcc.edu.