The Cybersecurity Institute at Laredo College partners with CompTIA, AccessData, and Hack The Box to deliver industry-recognized certification preparation and educational content. These partnerships enable the curriculum to integrate hands-on, practical training, equipping students with the skills needed for careers in cybersecurity.

Students engage in immersive, hands-on exercises, including cyber-range scenarios that simulate real-world cybersecurity incidents. This approach ensures that students gain practical, real-world experience, preparing them for the cybersecurity workforce.

Graduates of the Cybersecurity Institute benefit from practical experience, industry-aligned training, and the preparation required to pursue certifications from CompTIA, AccessData, and Hack The Box, making them highly competitive in this fast-growing field.

The Cybersecurity Institute program has an articulation agreement with Western Governors University, providing students with a seamless pathway to further their education.

Information Assurance, Associate of Applied Science

Information Assurance, Certificate II

The student seeking admission to the Associate of Applied Science in Information Assurance program must:
 

1. Be admitted as an LC student
   • A student must reapply if they last attended more than one year ago.
   • Visit https://www.applytexas.org/ for more information.
   • Ensure you have an LC Palomino ID and access to your LC student email before applying.
2. Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Requirements
   • Applicants must be TSI Ready in Reading, Writing, and Math to be eligible for program consideration.
3. Grade Point Average (GPA)
   • Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 at the time of application.
4. Prerequisite Coursework
   • Complete program prerequisite courses:  

Course Code                                    Course Title

ENGL 1301                                       Composition I

MATH X3XX                                      Math Elective

ITSC 1301                                         Introduction to Computers

ITNW 1308                                        Implementing and Supporting Client Operating Systems

1. Criminal Background Check
   • Admission to the program is contingent upon a clear criminal background check in accordance with program and industry requirements.
2. Certification Requirement
   • Applicants must take the CompTIA Tech+ certification exam and submit their score as part of the application.
   • A minimum passing score is not required. Certification scores will be considered as part of the overall application review process.
3. Statement of Interest
   • Applicants must submit a typed Statement of Interest (1–2 pages) that addresses:
     1. Educational background and relevant coursework
     2. Skills, interests, and learning experiences related to technology
     3. Career goals and motivation for pursuing cybersecurity
     4. Readiness and commitment to a technical and ethical profession
4. Applicant Evaluation and Selection
   • Admission to the program is competitive. Applicants will be evaluated using a holistic review process based on the following components:
     1. Cumulative GPA
     2. CompTIA Tech+ certification exam score
     3. Statement of Interest
   • Applicants will be scored using a standardized evaluation rubric. In cases where applicants receive equivalent scores, the Statement of Interest may be used to differentiate candidates based on demonstrated motivation, preparedness, and alignment with program goals.
   • Applications are typically accepted in November, with evaluation and admission decisions occurring in December.