HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As cyber threats continue to evolve, officials at Hutchinson Community College say their cybersecurity programs are preparing students to meet increasing demand in the workforce.
Jesse Newberry, a professor and coordinator in the college’s computer technology department, recently discussed the program offerings and the growing importance of cybersecurity in everyday life.
Newberry said the department offers multiple pathways, including an Associate of Science degree designed for transfer to a four-year university and an Associate of Applied Science degree focused on entering the workforce more quickly. Both tracks emphasize cybersecurity fundamentals alongside broader technical training.
“We’ve developed programs that allow students to either continue their education or step directly into a job,” Newberry said.
In addition to degree options, the college also offers certificate programs aimed at students who want to gain skills quickly or enhance their current careers. These shorter programs can serve as a stepping stone toward a full degree or help workers advance in technology-related fields.
Newberry noted that cybersecurity education extends beyond just learning how to stop hackers. Students are trained in computer hardware, networking, operating systems, and system security before specializing in cybersecurity concepts.
“There’s a whole regimen of material that students go through to prepare for careers in cybersecurity,” he said.
The need for trained professionals continues to grow as cyber threats become more widespread. Newberry explained that attacks can come in many forms, including phishing emails, network intrusions, or even physical access to computer systems.
“Threats are happening every minute of every day on all kinds of systems,” he said.
To help meet student needs, all courses in the program are available online and offered in an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedules.
Newberry also emphasized the importance of basic cybersecurity practices for the general public, including being cautious with email links and enabling multi-factor authentication to protect personal accounts.
With flexible learning options and multiple entry points into the field, Hutchinson Community College officials say their cybersecurity programs are designed to support both traditional students and working adults looking to build in-demand technical skills.