Cybersecurity is more important than ever, with government and private sector networks being exploited at an unprecedented scale. As these threats grow, the cybersecurity workforce needs to understand and protect the critical components upon which the economy, government, and national security are built. Cybersecurity practitioners are increasingly needed to protect people, organizations, and their information.  

Overview

The Penn State Shenango CompTIA Cybersecurity Specialist program is an intensive and comprehensive training initiative designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills required to excel in the field of cybersecurity. This program focuses on two key CompTIA certifications: Network+ and Security+. Designed in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Center (PCC), this training will be beneficial to professional working in the IT realm who want to expand their knowledge, as well as those interested in transitioning to a cyber related position. Minimum requirement of high school diploma or GED to be eligible for training. 

Advance Your Career Opportunities! CompTIA Certifications can:

  • CompTIA certifications can give you an edge in a competitive job market.
  • CompTIA certifications can lead to higher earning potential.
  • CompTIA certifications help you stay current in your field.

Cybersecurity Courses - Flexible, Online Schedule

Courses:

  • Intro to Computer Concepts
  • CompTIA Network+*
  • CompTIA Security+*

*Course includes CompTIA certification exam voucher

Spring 2025: Intro to Computer Concepts

This introductory course provides a foundational understanding of computer concepts and IT essentials. Topics include the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, programming, databases, and security.

  • Date: Wednesday January 15, 2025 through April 3, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
  • Format: Instructor-led course on Zoom
  • Cost: $2000
  • Registration: Intro to Computer Concepts 

Spring 2025: CompTIA Network+

This comprehensive training course prepares you for the CompTIA Network+ certification, a globally recognized credential for IT professionals. Key topics include network architecture, operations, security, standards, and protocols. The course combines expert-led lectures, practical labs, and real-world scenarios to ensure you are well-prepared for the certification exam and capable of supporting network infrastructures in various IT environments. Ideal for network technicians, administrators, and anyone aiming to advance their IT networking career.

  • Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 - July 30, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
  • Format: Instructor-led course on Zoom
  • Cost: $3000 Course includes CompTIA Network+ certification exam voucher
  • Registration: CompTIA Network+ Spring 2025

Spring 2025: CompTIA Security+

This intensive training course prepares you for the CompTIA Security+ certification, a key credential for cybersecurity professionals. You will acquire essential skills in network security, threat management, cryptography, identity management, and risk mitigation. The course covers the latest industry standards and practices through expert-led lectures, hands-on labs, and real-world scenarios.

  • Date: Wednesday, August 27 - December 17, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
  • Format: Instructor-led course on Zoom
  • Cost: $3000 Course includes CompTIA Security+ certification exam voucher
  • Registration: CompTIA Security+ Fall 2025 

About PCC

The Pennsylvania Cybersecurity Center (PCC) was created in partnership with ForceNow, LLC to combat the shortage of cybersecurity professionals. The PCC is partnering with Penn State Shenango to offer fully synchronous, instructor-led, certified training courses for students to become career ready to seek positions in the cybersecurity industry.

Contact Information

For more information, or to register, please call or email Jill Valentine at 724-773-3700 or [email protected].

Cancellations and refunds

Payment is due upon registration. Students may request a registration cancellation up to one week prior to the start of the course. A $25 cancellation fee will apply. No refunds will be given for withdrawal requests after the course start date. The University reserves the right to cancel course selections. If the course is cancelled, the student will be issued a full refund.