Diploma Program
This program can be offered at the campus(es) below. Please contact the campus of your choosing for program availability and delivery methods.
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In Person (On Campus)
Distance (Online)
Hybrid
Median Wage
$34 /hour
*Jobbank.gc.ca; 2024;
During this comprehensive program, you will learn about managing and securing networks and computers, cybersecurity techniques, digital forensics, and more!
The primary focus will be on fully preparing for exams for industry certifications, including Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+, Net+, Security+, CySA+, PenTest+, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
CDI College is registered as a career college under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005.
Student Success Strategies
The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills and study techniques to help foster effective learning and a positive educational experience. This course explores two components of learning styles, Multiple Intelligence-based theory and Personality Spectrum – MBTI-based theory, and how learning styles and personality types affect learning. The course will cover the importance of values, their relationship to goals and goal setting. Strategies for setting personal goals, prioritizing tasks, managing time, and the stress that results from study or work situations will be explored and practiced through active participation in learner-centred activities. Effective study habits, techniques for preparing for tests and productive note taking strategies are key topics of this course that will provide the students with the necessary skills and attitudes to be successful in school. Having a sound understanding of financial, money, credit and debt matters and their implication on our lives is critical knowledge to have. Students taking this course will benefit from completing the Financial Management Workshops, which provides comprehensive coverage of financial and money management skills that will allow them to better save, budget, and manage their money and financial situations.
IT Fundamentals
This course focuses on the essential IT skills and knowledge needed to perform tasks commonly performed by end-users and entry-level IT professionals. Students will learn to use the features and functions of common operating systems and establishing network connectivity. The course will explore common software applications and their purpose, security and web browsing best practices. By the end of this course students will have gained foundational knowledge in IT concepts and terminology, IT infrastructure, applications, and software development, database fundamentals and security.
Managing and Maintaining PCs (A+): Part 1
Many IT professionals are required to repair and maintain personal computers as part of their regular duties. Consequently, individuals possessing these abilities are widely sought after by employers in the industry. With this in mind, the Managing and Maintaining PC’s: Part 1 course introduces you to the hardware components that make up the typical personal computer (PC) as well as networking devices, laptop computers, and printers. It also covers the topic of developing and using an organized approach to solving computer hardware problems by an IT technician. It is designed to align with CompTIA’s A+ 220-1101 Exam Certification objectives.
Managing and Maintaining PCs (A+): Part 2
The Managing and Maintaining PCs: Part 2 course builds on the knowledge and skills introduced in Part 1. It explores computer operating systems, with particular emphasis on Microsoft Windows 10, its installation, configuration, maintenance and optimization. The course then provides you with the knowledge and skills to effectively maintain and troubleshoot software in a system. The critically important topic of security is also covered as well as the rapidly growing field of mobile operating systems. The course is designed to align to CompTIA’s A+ 220- 1102 Certification objectives.
Network+
This course teaches the fundamentals of networking with an emphasis on basic theoretical concepts and some practical hands-on skills. The course is intended to align with the objectives of CompTIA’s Network+ certification exam N10-008.
Configuring a Windows Client Operating System
This is the first course covering Windows Client operating system. In addition, skills learned in this course will give students a foundation to build on in Windows Server courses. Topics include installing Windows Client, performing postinstallation configuration, implementing Windows in an enterprise environment, configuring networking, storage, data access, implementing applications, configuring updates, monitoring and remote management, configuring system recovery, authorization and authentication.
Deploy and Automate Secure Cloud Environments
This course focuses on the implementation and support of cloud-based infrastructure services in the context of the broader IT systems operations in a datacenter environment. Students will learn about the deployment, migration, optimization and protection of mission critical applications to the cloud. The course will explore the challenges of multi-cloud environments and the techniques to overcome these challenges. The course will begin with the fundamental concepts of cloud architecture
and design with an overview of the foundational technologies and concepts that comprise the cloud. From there students will explore the deployment and managing of cloud networks with a focus on the securing of cloud resources. Finally, the course will conclude with cloud optimization and high availability as important factors for security measures and disaster recovery. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on the use of automation and orchestration, and troubleshooting.
Installation and Management of Servers
This course provides the student with the knowledge and skills required to install, configure, manage and maintain server installations. The course will cover the server lifecycle through the following four themes: Server, virtualization and security concepts, managing physical assets, and server hardware and storage configurations; installing, troubleshooting and maintaining server operating systems; and managing data security, service and data availability and decommissioning.
Students will learn to install and configure server hardware and server operating systems. The course will then explore the implementation of server hardening and security controls, troubleshooting of common server problems and general server maintenance and upkeep. Finally, students will gain an understanding of key disaster recovery strategies, high availability options, and backup and restore concepts.
Linux Administration and Management
This course will provide the students with the knowledge and skills required to configure, manage, operate, and troubleshoot Linux in on-premises and cloud-based server environments. Students will learn to use security best practices, scripting, containerization, and automation. The course aligns its coverage to the CompTIA Linux+ exam objectives into blocks based around the following themes: Linux concepts; Server administration; Network management and security; Scripting, automation, and installation of Linux.
PowerShell
In this course, students will learn to use PowerShell scripting to automate the common tasks and administrative jobs that can be applied on the client or server version of Windows. The course starts with an introduction to the PowerShell language and scripting environment and then proceeds to a thorough explanation of creating functional scripts that can be used for performing common tasks that involve working with files, Internet-connected scripts, user interaction, and solving tasks in systems and enterprise management deployments such as working with Active Directory and the file system.
Python Development
This course introduces the students to the Python programming language. Students will continue to integrate Object-Oriented programming concepts will learning the features of the Python programming language. This course also explore Internet programming including accessing client-side network protocols and email tools, using CGI scripts, and website implementation techniques using Python.
Introduction to Internetworking
This course is a study of the theoretical fundamentals, protocols and standards on which computer networks are based and an introduction to the practical implementation of common types of networks, including the hardware used for their functionality and the configuration procedures used for setting them up. The course aligns to the first part of Cisco’s CCNA certification exam objectives.
Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices
This course builds and expands on the theory and skills gained in the preceding course: Introduction to Internetworking. Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices goes into more detail about network architecture, configuration, and functionality. Students will learn the complexities of network protocols and networking technologies for both Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs). There will be greater emphasis on network implementation and configuration using Cisco-based technology. Students will perform a large number and variety of hands-on labs to reinforce the theory they learn. The course aligns with the second part of Cisco’s CCNA certification exam objectives.
Administration of Windows Server Hybrid Infrastructure
This course will explore the installation and administration of Windows Server on-premises, hybrid, and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) platform workloads. Students will learn to integrate Windows Server environments with Azure services and manage Windows Server in on-premises and hybrid networks. The course will explore the deployment, packaging, securing, updating, and administration of Windows Server workloads using on-premises, hybrid, and cloud technologies. Students will learn how to implement and manage on-premises and hybrid solutions, such as identity, security, management, compute, networking, storage, monitoring, high availability, and disaster recovery.
Configuring Windows Server Hybrid Infrastructure - Advanced
This course will continue the development of knowledge and skill in administering and configuring a Windows Hybrid Infrastructure. Students will develop their skills in the five key areas of securing Windows on-premises and hybrid infrastructures, implementing and managing Windows Server high availability, implementing disaster recovery, migrating servers and workloads to Azure, and monitoring and troubleshooting Windows Server environments.
Security+
This course is a broad-based introduction to the theory of computer and network security. It teaches generalized security concepts without very detailed coverage of individual items, but is intended to prepare you to specialize in any number of security fields. Some of the topics covered by the course include computer system protection, network security, access control and authentication, cryptography and operational/organizational security. Extensive exercises and hands-on labs at every stage of the course will allow you to practice and reinforce the skills you acquire, while numerous review questions and case scenarios will give you the opportunity to test your knowledge of the presented material. This course has been designed to align with the objectives of CompTIA's Security+ certification exam, Exam SY0-601.
Risk Identification and Mitigation
This course provides the student with an overview of the various risks and security vulnerabilities to which IT systems and infrastructures are commonly exposed to. The course with then explore the tools and techniques used to mitigate those risks. Students will explore the risks and exposures facing web servers and applications, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile devices and the general IT infrastructure. The course will then cover topics in Penetration testing, system hacking, social and physical security, malware and sniffers, SQL injections and cryptography, session highjacking, denial of service and other types of system attacks. The focus of the course will be to identify the risks and then apply countermeasures and prevention techniques.
Cybersecurity Essentials
The increased reliance on computer systems, the internet, connected technologies and smart devices has made cybersecurity a critical concern for organizations and individuals alike. Keeping devices, data and information secure and protected from vulnerabilities is a critical area of activity for all organizations. This course provides the students with an introduction to the field of cybersecurity. Students will be introduced to the four distinct challenges to creating a cybersecurity defense; securing the infrastructure, securing the devices, securing the local network and securing the perimeter. The course will explore the fundamental concepts of each challenge and the types of vulnerabilities associated with each. Students will learn how to identify the risks and vulnerabilities in each area and describe counteractions to mitigate the risks.
Cybersecurity Analyst CySA+
This course will explore the role and responsibilities of the cybersecurity specialist in monitoring, detecting and responding to security incidents in information systems and networks. The course will introduce the tools and tactics used to manage cybersecurity risks, identify various types of common threats, evaluate an organizations security, collect security intelligence and handle incidents as they occur. The course is designed to foster a comprehensive approach to security. This course aligns to the objectives of the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification exam (CS0-001).
Penetration Testing
This course explores the concepts of Penetration testing. The ever-increasing need of organizations to protect themselves from security breaches and risks require them to invest heavily in understanding their vulnerabilities and design measures to counteract them. In order to protect themselves, organizations turn to the conducting of penetration testing. In this course, students will learn the concepts and methodologies related to pen testing. Students will develop their pen testing skills enabling them to identify information system vulnerabilities and design effective remediation for them. This course aligns to the objectives of the CompTIA PenTest+ exam (PT0-002).
Advanced Security
This course expands on the fundamental security concepts by teaching students the knowledge and skills in advanced security. Student will learn the concepts of risk management, enterprise security architecture, enterprise security operations, technical integration of enterprise security, research, development and collaboration. The course begins with an overview of governance and risk compliance where students will learn about the role and life cycle of risk management and risk management methods. Students will explore network infrastructure protection, software integration and testing and emerging technologies for secure configuration and system hardening. After exploring the concepts of cryptography, public key infrastructure and vulnerability management, the course will conclude with a review of technical controls and incident responses.
Career & Employment Strategies
In addition to learning career-oriented skills, students learn how to get a job in their chosen profession. Our Employment Services department will assist the graduate in resume writing, as well as preparing for job interviews. Our staff is sensitive to current job market trends and the needs of employers in each local market.
Our graduates receive guidance and training to use career tools that help job seekers build a better resume and cover letter, manage an online portfolio, hone interviewing skills, and develop a personal brand online.
Students will have the use of a computer lab which has unlimited Internet access, as well as job search resources. Facilitators will also be made available to advise on job finding resources, interview skills and techniques and to carry out mock interviews.
This course also looks at the planning, preparation, execution, and follow-up stages of an interview:
Admission
Benefits of this program
Employment Opportunities
Admission
Benefits of this program
Employment Opportunities
Gain a distinct advantage by earning industry-recognized certifications that validate your expertise and skills in key areas such as digital marketing, project management, and CRM. Our program prepares you to succeed, whether you're advancing, switching careers, or starting your own business. Invest in yourself and join a community of certified professionals shaping the digital economy.
I have always been passionate about IT, and I got the chance to enroll in CDI College. Since I joined it, I have liked it more. The tutor makes it easy to learn Cyber Security. I am hoping to keep gaining more interest as I continue with the program.
Steve H.
Cybersecurity Specialist Graduate
One of my favourite aspects of working as a Campus Director... is the opportunity to positively impact students' lives. Being able to provide them with educational opportunities and also support them achieve their goals brings me great fulfillment.
Tazeen A.
Campus Director
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