Cybersecurity is deeply embedded in the culture and operations of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC). In addition to offering a robust program in Cybersecurity Technology, which includes an Internet of Things option, the College is home to the Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI), a conglomerate of organizations from higher education, state and local government, and the private sector, including Mississippi State University and Keesler Air Force Base. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation’s cyber forensics lab is also housed in the MCI space on the College’s Harrison County Campus. The College hosted NSA’s CAE conference during Summer 2022, bringing together cybersecurity experts from around the country in its state-of-the-art Immersive Media Performing Arts Center. MGCCC students have the opportunity to participate in internships and events, such as cybersecurity competitions. Faculty in the Cybersecurity Technology program bring extensive experience and expertise from the private sector, and the program’s advisory board consists of members spanning sectors from defense to gaming and tourism to geographic information systems. The College frequently promotes best practices in cybersecurity among its employees by implementing processes such as two-factor authentication and through events like Cybersecurity Awareness Month. With strong IT programs, vibrant relationships throughout the state, and an internal commitment to secure information and digital assets, MGCCC serves as a synergist for cybersecurity along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and throughout the state.

Cybersecurity Program of Study

Cybersecurity Technology

Cybersecurity Technology is a two-year program that offers practical training in the areas of confidentiality, integrity, and availability in information security. This program has been submitted as a program of study (PoS) and aligned with the NSA Knowledge Unit (KU) requirements and approved through October 2027.

The Cybersecurity Technology program is designed to provide students with the skills to recognize and prevent threats to information and information systems and to master techniques for defense against such threats. Security models, intrusion detection, incident handling, firewalls, perimeter protection, and network security laws are covered in the course work.

This program leads to an Associate of Applied Science Degree and is preparatory for employment upon graduation from MGCCC. Where a transfer to four-year college or university is desired, a conference should be scheduled with a MGCCC advisor.

Cybersecurity Technology Certificate to MBA – MGCCC Pathway – MUW

Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI)

The Mississippi Cyber Initiative (MCI) began in 2021 to support cyber training and education. MCI established its initial capabilities at MGCCC’s Harrison County campus with a Cyber Ecosystem, Systems Operations Lab, and a Digital Forensics Lab. The Cyber Ecosystem provides a controlled, interactive technology environment to train up-and-coming cybersecurity professionals. The Systems Operations Lab supports the 366 Training Squadron at Keesler Airforce Base by hosting a platform to train network server administrators. The Digital Forensics Lab supports the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.

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