New applied computing programs address urgent shortage of security professionals

Sheridan has launched two unique applied computing programs that address a growing shortage of skilled professionals who can secure online systems and environments.

The Computer Systems Technician - Cyber Security diploma is the first two-year program of its kind to be offered by a public postsecondary institution in Canada, while the eight-month Cloud Security graduate certificate is the first Ontario public college program to specifically focus on navigating and securing cloud environments.

Both are currently accepting applicants for a January 2025 intake that will feature in-person classes at Sheridan's Davis Campus in Brampton.

According to environmental scans conducted during planning for the new programs, Canada faced an average of 4,000 cyber security job vacancies per day in 2022 — with 20% of those jobs remaining unfilled — and more than 7,000 cloud security jobs were posted throughout the country in 2023, a job demand higher than the national average.

The new credentials add to Sheridan's already robust suite of applied computing programs, which now features three degrees (including the first cyber security degree in Canada), three advanced diplomas, three diplomas and three graduate certificates.

“These new programs seamlessly align with Sheridan’s strategic mandate to deliver trailblazing education defined by innovative, industry-relevant programs,” says Kristin Armstrong, Associate Dean in Sheridan’s Faculty of Applied Science & Technology. “In addition to efficiently addressing evolving needs of industry, they enhance our distinctive ecosystem of cyber security education by making careers in applied computing more accessible to all.”

Computer Systems Technician - Cyber Security

Sheridan's Computer Systems Technician - Cyber Security diploma is the fastest way to prepare for entry-level employment in the cyber security field, teaching technical and interpersonal skills necessary to perform day-to-day operational tasks.

In as few as 16 months, students will develop two of four specific skillsets within the Canadian Cyber Security Skills Framework: Operate & Maintain, and Protect & Defend. They will also gain practical experience working with the latest industry technology in a cyber range that simulates a security operation centre (SOC).

Unlike most computer science programs, Grade 12 math credits are not required for admission into the diploma. Computer Systems Technician - Cyber Security graduates will be qualified for entry-level employment in various support specialist positions, and they'll also be prepared to pursue further education — such as Sheridan's Bachelor of Information Sciences (Cyber Security) degree or the new Cloud Security graduate certificate — and industry certifications.

“Entry-level roles are in high demand but differ from those that a graduate of our cyber security degree would pursue in both depth and skillset,” says Armstrong. “By purposely focusing on two specific streams of the Canadian Cyber Security Skills Framework, we can address the shortage of skilled professionals more efficiently and provide students with an option for earlier entry into the workforce.”

Cloud Security

The Cloud Security graduate certificate is a niche credential that responds directly to evolving demands of industry, acknowledging a critical need for professionals who can navigate and secure cloud environments.

The eight-month program is designed to be a bridge between academic theory and practical application, providing a well-rounded understanding of various cloud principles and practices. Program topics include Linux operating systems; design and security of infrastructures in cloud-based ecosystems; vulnerability management strategies; unique challenges and solutions within cloud architectures; DevSecOps software development best practices; and more.

No previous cloud security training is required for entry into the program. In addition to preparing students for work in a variety of cloud security roles, this graduate certificate can also serve as a first step towards Amazon Web Services (AWS) certification and other applied computing education; enhance existing computer science expertise; or complement other graduate certificate programs at Sheridan, including Internet of Things and Machine Intelligence.

“Cloud security is increasingly recognized as a critical specialization within the broader cyber security landscape,” Armstrong says, “and this program will equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this specific domain.”

Visit Sheridan’s program pages to learn more about Sheridan's Computer Systems Technician – Cyber Security diploma and Cloud Security graduate certificate.