Foundation Pathway to Master of Cybersecurity and Leadership
Get ready for your career journey in Master of Cybersecurity and Leadership
The Foundations for Pathway to the Master of Cybersecurity and Leadership Program is an entry-level series of live courses designed to prepare you for entry into the MCL Program to build technical proficiency in Programming and Networking necessary for entry to the MCL program. These courses will be delivered through synchronous remote sessions on Saturdays. The courses each require approximately two to three hous of student pre-work which primarily consists of topical reading preparation. The synchronous lecture sessions are a three hour format. There are post lecture assignments for each course that will average approximately six to eight hours of student effort. These after lecture assignments are primarily intended to be hands-on lab exercises to reinforce learning..
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Courses
Python Course Series
Course Description
Python course covers provides a learning introduction to Python starting from the basic and ending at an intermediate level. It is divided into four learning units. Each unit has a specific set of topics and outcomes. Each unit is covered in a class session. Learners will work on exercises and activities between and after the class sessions.
Python 1
Course Description
This course will expose students to the underlying concepts of Python – used for a Machine learning and data analytics applications. Key topics include Python IDE (Jupyter Notebook), Python programming basics, lists, functions and python libraries. After completing this module, participants will learn basic programming in Python, work with key Python data structures, learn to code functions in Python, and work with a Python library.
Key topics will include:
- Jupyter Notebooks IDE
- Python programming Basics -control structures
- Lists
- Functions
- NumPy
Python 2
Course Description
This course will continue participants’ exposure to Python. Key topics of this module will include additional Python libraries, Python logical statements, control flow, and an introduction to Machine learning in Python. After completing this module, participants will have learned which are fundamental Python libraries, how to code control flow and set up logical statements and use a machine learning environment.
Key Topics
- Common Python libraries
- Python program logic and control flow
- Introduction to Machine Learning in Python
Python 3
Course Description
This course covers intermediate topics relating to Python programming, including error handling, working with files, working with and analyzing data using the Pandas library, and visualizing data using the Matplotlib and Seaborn libraries. Illustrative examples and live demonstrations of all of these Python topics are also provided.
Key topics will include:
- Pandas for data analysis
- Data visualization with Matplotlib/Seaborn libraries
- File processing
- Error handling with Python
Python 4
Course Description
This course covers additional intermediate topics relating to Python, including working with relational databases (such as SQL) using Python, fetching and processing data from websites using the Beautiful Soup library, building and testing machine learning models using the scipy and scikit-learn libraries, and using APIs from within Python. I.
Key topics will include:
- Working with relational databases using Python
- Beautiful Soup library
- Building and testing machine learning models
- Using APIs
Network Engineer Course Series
Course Description
The four-part computer networking course provides a solid foundation for understanding computer network communications architecture, infrastructure and protocols. The four component courses each have specific topics and outcomes; delivered Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Each section requires pre-lecture independent study, synchronous lecture and short exercises and activities to be completed, after the class session.
Network Engineer 1
Course Description
Introduction to protocols and standards for communication. Scientific properties of electromagnetism that enable its use in analog and digital communication. Overview of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and the many diverse methods and mediums available for computer communications.
Key topics will include:
- Electromagnetic energy and electricity
- Early long-range communications infrastructure
- Understanding analog and digital signals
- Open Systems Interconnection standards
- Introduction to communication protocols
Network Engineer 2
Course Description
Local Area Networking and Wide Area Networking. In depth understanding of routers and switches. Layer two and three protocols and algorithms used for addressing, collision avoidance and route decision making. Appropriate use of static routing. Overview of dynamic routing protocols.
Key Topics
- Ethernet and Media Access Control addresses
- Introduction to routing and switching architecture
- Local Area Networking and Wide Area Networking
- Internet Protocol addressing and routing concepts
- Introduction to static and dynamic routing protocols
- Dynamic routing concepts enabling internetworking
Network Engineer 3
Course Description
Introduction to Internet architecture and global communications infrastructure. Three-tiered configuration of Internet Service Providers. Numerous protocols and methods enabling rapid global communications, including widespread use of fiber optics, wireless and satellite communications.
Key topics will include:
- Routing and architecture enabling the Internet
- Internet Service Providers and Internet tiers
- Protocols enabling complex and diverse services
- Various media used in modern communications
- SONET, Satellite, CAT3 – CAT6, Cellular and WiFi
Network Engineer 4
Course Description
The use of ports and services in computer communications. Mapping ports and protocols into system processes. Deep dive into layer four, five, six and seven protocols. Transmission Control Protocol, User Datagram Protocol, Datagram Congestion Control Protocol and Stream Control Transmission Protocol. Compression, encryption and presentation of communicated information in the application.
Key topics will include:
- Layer 4 protocols and mapping to services
- Mapping sessions into processor identifiers
- Encryption and compression algorithms
- Programming applications for the network
- Cloud computing and remote data storage
Program Highlights
100% LIVE Online Instruction
3-hour courses delivered live on weekends and weekday evenings. Review the class recording and practice what you’ve learned at your own pace thereafter.
Taught by UW Faculty and Industry Professionals
Learn from thought leaders in academia and from accomplished practitioners in industry.
Class Schedule
Class
Date
Time
Python 1
Saturday,
February 8,2025
9:00am-12:20pm
Networking 1
Saturday,
February 8,2025
1:30pm-4:50pm
Python 2
Sunday,
February 9,2025
9:00am-12:20pm
Networking 2
Sunday,
February 9,2025
1:30pm-4:50pm
Python 3
Saturday,
March 15,2025
9:00am-12:20pm
Networking 3
Saturday,
March 15,2025
1:30pm-4:50pm
Python 4
Sunday,
March 16,2025
9:00am-12:20pm
Networking 4
Sunday,
March 16,2025
1:30pm-4:50pm
Don’t miss the deadline! The last day to register for classes is February 4,2025
Instructors
D.C. Grant
