Stay connected.
Build the skills needed to protect networks, systems and data in today鈥檚 connected world.
The Network Security Specialist Certificate prepares you for roles in information technology and network security, with hands-on training in system protection, troubleshooting and support.
Students develop practical experience working with hardware and software, managing networks, and supporting users in real-world environments. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as PC support technician, IT technician, help desk support specialist, network administrator or network support specialist.
The program also helps you prepare for industry-recognized certifications, including CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+ and Cisco CCNA, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
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Turn passion into a Career in Network Security
New technologies and increased computer use will continue to stimulate the demand for such workers, and many will find employment in private and public industries.
This certificate prepares you for entry-level roles that support network operations and IT systems in a variety of organizations.
Graduates are prepared for positions such as IT technician, help desk support specialist, PC support technician, or network support specialist. In these roles, you鈥檒l troubleshoot technical issues, assist users, manage system access, and help maintain secure and reliable network environments.
These positions are often a starting point for advancing into network administration or cybersecurity roles with additional experience and certifications.
The Network Security Specialist Certificate at Moraine Valley is designed to be completed in about one and a half years.
The Network Security Specialist Certificate at Moraine Valley can typically be completed in about one and a half years when attending full time.
This program prepares students for entry-level roles in network and information security, with training in supporting systems, troubleshooting issues, and helping maintain secure network environments. Graduates build practical skills used by IT professionals to keep systems reliable and protected.
This certificate can be completed on its own or as part of the Cybersecurity A.A.S. degree.
Potential careers in Network Security
The Network Security Specialist Certificate prepares you for careers supporting and securing systems and networks across a variety of industries, including healthcare, finance, business and government.
Explore certificates that support your degree
Enhance your education with certificates that build specialized skills and align with your career goals. These stackable credentials apply directly to your A.A.S., helping you gain experience and credentials before you graduate.
Real stories of success.
Moraine Valley’s Automation and Engineering Technology program will expose students to robotics, cybersecurity, 3D printing and automation/programmable logic controllers. Learn more about how to enter this growing field.
Justin Valentino
Program Coordinator
In the tech world, the tools we use change every single year, but the ability to solve a problem never goes out of style. I teach my students that Networking and Cybersecurity are the ‘backbone’ of everything we do鈥攆rom hospitals to banks. My goal is to give students more than just a certificate; I want to give them the confidence to handle a crisis and the skills to learn new tech on the fly. We focus on hands-on training and the ethics of protecting people鈥檚 data, so when students graduate, they’re ready to integrate into the workforce.
Faculty with real-world experience.
Your instructors don鈥檛 just teach the material, they鈥檝e worked in the field. With experience in counseling, treatment programs, and community outreach, they bring real examples and practical knowledge into every class. You鈥檒l learn what to expect and how to prepare for your first role in the field.
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Program Details
View the catalog to explore program requirements, a suggested course sequence and prerequisite information.
| Program | Type of Credential | Curriculum Code | Department or Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate | 1424 | Computer Integrated Technologies |
Faculty Spotlight
Celebrating the passionate instructors who inspire, support, and engage our students every day inside and outside the classroom.
Dr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications DepartmentDr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications DepartmentDr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications DepartmentDr. Martinez is passionate about helping students develop strong writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills that transfer across disciplines. Her courses emphasize clear expression, collaboration, and real-world communication.
鈥淟isa consistently goes above and beyond to support her students. She creates an inclusive classroom environment where learners feel confident participating, improving, and finding their academic voice.鈥�
鈥� Colleague, Communications Department
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