Cyber Security Program

Cybersecurity

Enter a high-tech career with lucrative options.

See How You Can Afford It

2 Yrs. 60 Credit Hours
4 Semesters


$12,480 – $16,100*

Enhance your career opportunities with additional training.

See How You Can Afford It

1 Yr. 32 Credit Hours
2 Semesters


$6,656 – $8,589*

Enter a high-tech career with lucrative options.

See How You Can Afford It

2 Yrs. 60 Credit Hours
4 Semesters


$12,480 – $16,100*

Enhance your career opportunities with additional training.

See How You Can Afford It

1 Yr. 32 Credit Hours
2 Semesters


$6,656 – $8,589*

Build Connections

Small class sizes allow you to build strong relationships with your instructors and classmates.

Experienced Instructors

Learn from instructors with experience navigating the challenges of the field.

Career Variety

Cybersecurity professionals are needed across nearly every industry.

Protect People and Data from Online Threats

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing careers today. In today’s digital world every industry needs skilled cybersecurity professionals. They protect data, networks and people from online threats. With Ozarks Tech, you can play a key role in keeping technology safe.

Your courses give you a strong foundation across a variety of topics like networking, data communications and security threat assessment.

Plus, you gain knowledge to pursue industry recognized certifications like

  • A+

  • Network+

  • Linux+

  • Security+

Program Information

View our accreditation information and learn more about how to apply to Ozarks Tech.

General Admissions to Ozarks Tech

Admission to Ozarks Technical Community College is open to all individuals who can benefit from its educational programs. A focus of the college mission is on the academic, career and personal goals of the student. OTC may admit you as a First-Time student just completing their high schoolGED or HiSET requirements or as a Transfer student coming from another institution finishing up a certificate or degree. For more information, visit OTC Admissions.

Wondering how you’re going to pay for college? At OTC, we believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to earning a degree. Our staff will work with you to make a financial plan. To browse the resources available to you, see paying for college.

At Ozarks Tech, we want your transfer process to be easy. We accomplish this goal through articulation agreements. These agreements are an official partnership to match coursework between schools. This gives you a more seamless transition from Ozarks Tech to a four-year institution.

We have established an agreement for this program. This will simplify the transfer of your credits to partner schools. To understand how this degree will transfer, review the current articulation agreements. Be sure to consult with your transfer school to ensure you’re on the right path toward completing your four-year degree.

Dr. Tiffany Ford
Computer Science, Cyber and IT Infrastructure
Department Chair
417-447-8296

Computer Information Science Team

OTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Our current accreditation status with the HLC is displayed on the page linked below. Our next comprehensive evaluation will be in 2030-2031. View more on OTC Accreditation.

Program Outcomes

View program outcomes

Get Involved

Find your community and get involved on campus. Student clubs are a great place to build friendships and professional connections in your field.

Tec2Gether

STEM Club

Thinking about earning your bachelor’s degree?

After your A.A.S., you may continue your education at a four-year institution. Bear in mind:

  • Admission requirements vary
  • Credits may transfer on a course-by-course basis

Find Transfer Advice

Course Information

Discover overview information, course sequences and specific course descriptions. Or, view the full catalog to see all the details.

Cybersecurity (A.A.S.)

A.A.S. Degree: 60 Hours

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cybersecurity program helps students obtain the knowledge needed for careers in cybersecurity. Students receive a well-rounded experience in basic networking fundamentals and advanced aspects of cybersecurity.  The cybersecurity AAS degree covers topical areas that deal with a study of data communication fundamentals, firewall essentials, basic cyber operations, digital forensics, and security threat assessment. This program also provides the foundation for the following industry-recognized certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Security+, and EC-Council CHFI and CEH.

Cybersecurity Program Requirements – 44 Credit Hours

Cybersecurity Program Requirements – 44 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3

    Introduction to Cybersecurity

    This course provides the student with a thorough understanding of how to identify what needs to be protected, how to protect it, and how to identify threats against the digital resource’s individuals and organizations value. A basic understanding of the cybersecurity landscape will be explored to guide the student into the knowledge and understanding necessary to accomplish privacy, security, and defense, spanning from the end user to the data-intensive enterprise networks and systems. The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow; this introductory cybersecurity course will offer insight to the world of securing information whether you want to pursue an entry-level networking or security professional position.

  • Credits: 4

    Introduction to Networking

    Introduction to Networking covers the essentials of hardware, software, and other elements that comprise today’s data networking environments. Topics covered include network hardware, topologies, transmission media, operating systems, systems administration, security, and IT standards. Lab activities include basic diagnostic software use, network troubleshooting, and solo and team activities designed to build interpersonal communication skills. This course helps prepare students to pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108.
  • Credits: 4

    Information Technology Security

    Information Technology Security is a hands on course with an emphasis on practical experience and core cybersecurity knowledge to help students develop skills and advance their careers. The curriculum in this course is a springboard to intermediate-level cybersecurity career opportunities and is aligned with the CompTIA Security+ certification.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CYB 106, ITI 107, ITI 108.
  • Credits: 3

    Firewall Essentials

    This course provides the student with a thorough understanding of how to install, configure, and manage firewalls for defense of enterprise network architecture. Students will learn the theory and extended configuration features and necessary steps for setting up the security, networking, threat prevention, logging, reporting features, traffic handling, advanced content/user identification, quality of service, global protect, monitoring/reporting and high availability of next generation firewall technologies.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CYB 123.
  • Credits: 3

    Cybersecurity Operations

    In this course, the student will learn security concepts, security monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis, and security policies procedures. This course also aligns with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) Cybersecurity Workforce Framework to support consistent communication language for cybersecurity education, training, and workforce development.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CYB 123.
  • Credits: 4

    Digital Forensics

    This class is designed to provide students the necessary skills to perform an effective digital forensics investigation. The course presents a methodological approach to computer forensics including searching and seizing, chain-of-custody, acquisition, preservation, analysis and reporting of digital evidence. It is a comprehensive course covering major forensic investigation scenarios that enables students to acquire necessary hands-on experience on various forensic investigation techniques and standard forensic tools necessary to successfully carry out a computer forensic investigation leading to prosecution of perpetrators.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CYB 223, CYB 226.
  • Credits: 4

    Ethical Hacking

    This class is designed to provide students an insight of current security scenarios and increasing hacking attempts on various information systems. The goal of the ethical hacking and countermeasures is to help the organizations take preemptive measures against malicious attacks by attacking the system themselves while staying within legal limits.

    Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in CYB 223, CYB 226.
  • Credits: 2

    Co-operative Education/Intern

    This course entails a supervised work experience in the major field, which provides the opportunity to make practical application of the knowledge and skills attained. An individualized instructional management plan will determine goals to be accomplished. Seminars may also be required. Please see the Department Chair of specific program area for application.

    Prerequisite(s): Completion of 30 credit hours and 2.0 GPA and advisor's approval
  • Credits: 4

    Computer and Network Hardware

    This course helps prepare students to pass the hardware/networking component of the CompTIA A+ certification.  The following areas are covered in both a lecture and hands-on-lab environment: mobile device configuration, networking and wireless configurations, hardware components, basic virtualization and cloud computing concepts, and network hardware troubleshooting.

    Corequisite(s): ITI 108. 
  • Credits: 4

    Operating Systems and Software

    This course helps prepare students to pass the software/operating systems component of the CompTIA A+ certification. The following areas are covered in both a lecture and hands-on lab environment: operating systems installation and configuration, basic device security, software configuration and troubleshooting, and basic IT operational procedures.

    Corequisite(s): ITI 107.
  • Credits: 4

    Windows Client-Server

    This course targets the fundamentals of Microsoft Windows network operating systems and the Azure cloud. Students install and configure Windows network operating systems as domain controllers in a basic network security model. At the conclusion of this course, students are able to create user and group accounts, set up security policies, domain trust relationships and Active Directory Domain Services for network resource accessibility and administration.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108.
  • Credits: 4

    The Linux Operating System

    This course targets the Linux operating system. Students will install the Linux operating system and configure a basic Linux network including a server and workstation. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to configure user and group accounts and use network resources including applications and printing.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108. 
  • Credits: 1

    Occupational Seminar

    Note: It is recommended students have 30 hours completed towards their degree program prior to enrolling in this course.  Instruction for this course includes career identification, self-assessment, resume’ development, preparation of cover letters, completion of applications for local jobs, learning the online employment application process, research of local companies, jobs available, and current salary ranges, job searching techniques and tools, interviewing skills, follow-up steps after the job interview and on-the-job performance expectations.

General Education Requirements – 16 Credit Hours

General Education Requirements – 16 Credit Hours

The Missouri Department of Higher Education has identified a common set of general education courses that have been adopted statewide. These courses are called the “CORE 42.”  CORE 42 courses are guaranteed to transfer to any Missouri public college or university to satisfy general education requirements.

Courses in knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo indicates courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.

Courses that do not have this designation may still transfer to public and private colleges and universities in Missouri and elsewhere, but students are encouraged to check the transfer equivalency website of the institution to which they plan to transfer to confirm.

Please refer to the MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3
    Applied Technical Mathematics

    Course content includes the fundamental processes of mathematics with emphasis on problem-solving techniques. This course covers mathematical principles and concepts applicable to the technical trades utilizing introductory algebra, geometry, elementary trigonometry, and basic statistical methods.

  • Credits: 4
    Intermediate Algebra

    This course is an extension of basic algebra and includes factoring, rational expressions, linear equations, quadratic equations, functions, graphs, radicals, complex numbers and applications.

  • Credits: 3
    Contemporary Mathematics

    This course provides students with a basic survey of mathematics. Topics include problem solving, modeling, counting methods, probability, statistics and geometry.

  • Credits: 4
    Cont Mathematics with Support

    This course provides students with a basic survey of mathematics. Topics include problem solving, modeling, counting methods, probability, statistics and geometry. MTH 128S will be driven by the same objectives as MTH 128, and satisfy the same requirement. The course design will provide students with more time, support, and individualized instruction to accomplish those objectives.

  • Credits: 3
    Algebra for Calculus

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs.

  • Credits: 4
    Algebra for Calculus With Support

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs. MTH 130S will be driven by the same objectives as MTH 130, and satisfy the same requirement. The course design will provide students with more time, support, and individualized instruction to accomplish those objectives.

  • Credits: 5
    Pre-Calculus Mathematics

    This course prepares students for calculus by integrating both college-level algebra and trigonometry. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their graphs; analytic trigonometry; and vectors. This course is designed for students with a prior background in algebra and trigonometry.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "B" or better in MTH 110 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus I

    This is the first course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include an introduction to analytic geometry, limits and continuity, the derivative and differential, the definite integral and applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 131 or MTH 138 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus II

    This is the second course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include techniques of formal integration, applications of definite integration, infinite sequences and series, parametrized curves and polar coordinates.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 3
    Statistical Methods

    Students study basic concepts of statistics and probability applicable to all disciplines. Topics include distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, elementary probability, sampling, estimation of parameters, hypothesis testing, regression and correlation.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 128 or MTH 130 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 3
    Discrete Mathematics

    This course provides an introduction to discrete mathematics.  Topics include logic, basic counting, discrete probability, recursion, sets and relations, graphs and trees.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 131 or MTH 138 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 3
    Algebraic Structures

    This course provides an introduction to techniques of mathematical reasoning and formal mathematical proof. Topics include logic, set theory, relations, functions, and number theory. 

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 3
    Linear Algebra

    This course is a study of vector spaces, matrices, linear transformations, determinants, quadratic forms, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, canonical forms and inner-product spaces. Emphasis is placed on rigorous proof and the development of mathematical maturity.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141.
  • Credits: 3
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus III

    This is the third course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include vector-valued functions, solid analytic geometry, partial differentiation, multiple integration and line and surface integrals in vector fields.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141.
  • Credits: 3
    Differential Equations

    This is an introduction to the techniques available for the solution of ordinary differential equations. Topics include first and second order equations, systems of differential equations, Laplace transforms, series solutions, numerical methods and applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141. 
Written Communications – 3 Credit Hours

Written Communications – 3 Credit Hours

    • Credits: 5
      Composition I With Support

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.  English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.

    • or
    • Credits: 3
      Composition I

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.

  • Credits: 3
    Composition II

    This course continues developing students’ abilities to use research and writing to make informed and ethical arguments; effectively communicating these arguments to professional and expert audiences in a research-supported project. Moreover, the course further develops students’ skills in critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions.

    Emphasis is placed on honing skills of audience analysis, analytical reading, problem solving, research methods—including both primary and secondary research—and persuasive writing. Also, this course will acquaint students with patterns and conventions of multiple disciplinary communities. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and applying rhetorical strategy) prepares students for their academic and professional futures.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
  • Credits: 3
    Technical Writing

    This course emphasizes developing the student’s ability to write clearly, concisely and accurately. Students practice collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting information in a variety of technical documents used in professional settings while using proper research and documentation techniques, sound visual design principles and effective writing styles suitable for a specific communicative context. Throughout, emphasis will be placed on honing skills in audience analysis, analytical reading, critical thinking, research methods and clear writing.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
Oral Communications – 3 Credit Hours

Oral Communications – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3
    Introduction to Communication

    This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.

  • Credits: 3
    Public Speaking

    This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.

  • Credits: 3
    Interpersonal Communication

    This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students learn how to become both effective and appropriate communicators in a variety of contexts. Students also develop good listening and responding skills, conflict management strategies, sensitivity to language and an understanding of cultural and gender differences.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better inENG 100 or ENG 101. 
Natural Sciences – 4 Credit Hours

Natural Sciences – 4 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 4
    Technical Physics

    This course entails a survey of basic physics for students majoring in technical fields. Students will learn how the concepts of force, work, rate, resistance, energy, power, and force transformation are related to mechanical, fluid, thermal, and electrical systems. Laboratory activities will give the students an opportunity to demonstrate the principles of physics, as presented in lecture.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in TEC 108 or higher
  • Credits: 4
    Human Anatomy

    Microscopic and macroscopic examination of the human body structures and systems are the focus of this course. Students evaluate the integration of the various systems within the entire body. The laboratory provides an opportunity for identification and evaluation of representative human models and slides and dissection of comparable mammalian organ systems.

  • Credits: 4
    Life Science

    This course covers a study of the biological principles that apply to all living systems. A survey of living organisms with an emphasis on how life functions on earth and how living things have adapted over time is explored. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to apply biological principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    Environmental Science

    This course will survey basic environmental science topics including; how ecosystems function, standards of sustainability, and the impact of humans on the biosphere.  Outdoor and indoor laboratory activities provide students with a hands on opportunity to apply principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    General Biology I

    This course is an introductory biology course for biology majors and minors. It provides an introduction to the concepts of biological structure and function at the molecular and cellular level, genetics and evolution. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate in the laboratory the principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    Introductory Chemistry

    This is an introductory course designed to study basic chemical principles. Topics include atomic structure, measurement, bonding, properties of gases, acids and bases, solutions, organic nomenclature, functional groups, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to demonstrate chemical principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    General Chemistry I

    This course is a study of the fundamental laws and theories of chemical structures and reactions. Topics include: atomic theory, stoichiometry, aqueous reactions, properties of gases, liquids, and solids, periodicity, bonding, thermodynamics, and properties of solutions. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Physics

    This course provides an introduction to basic physics. Students will apply the principles of mechanics, energy, waves, matter and atomic theory. Laboratory activities will give students the opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. A previous college level math course is recommended.

    Prerequisite(s): Knowledge of algebra, scatter plot graphing, slope and equation of the line, scientific notation, and unit conversions is recommended.
  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Geology

    This course is an introduction to basic geology. Students learn about the principles and applications of mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, geomorphology and historical geology. Laboratory skills necessary for the study of geology are introduced. A previous college level course is recommended.

  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Astronomy

    This course provides an introduction to basic astronomy. Students will learn about the composition, dynamics, evolution of planets, stars, and the universe. Laboratory activities will give students the opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. One evening field trip is required. A previous college level math course is recommended.

  • Credits: 4
    General Physics I

    This is an algebra based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students an opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. This course is designed for earth science, biology, chemistry, health and medical majors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or equivalent (MTH 131 recommended).
  • Credits: 5
    Physics Engrs & Scientists I

    This is a calculus based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to develop the basic skills in data collection and analysis required in physics. This course is designed for pre-engineering, physics, chemistry and pre-med majors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 1
    General Chemistry I Lab

    The lab emphasizes proper laboratory technique, synthesis, physical studies, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and data manipulation and statistical analysis. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT.
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3
    U.S. History I: to 1865

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3
    U.S. History II: 1865-Present

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing.  HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3
    American Government and Politics

    This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.

Cybersecurity Certificate

Certificate: 32 Hours

The Certificate of Achievement in Cybersecurity program helps students obtain the basic knowledge needed for entry-level employment in IT with an emphasis on Cybersecurity. Students receive a well-rounded experience in basic networking fundamentals and advanced aspects of cybersecurity.  The cybersecurity certificate covers topical areas that deal with a study of, a partial foundation of the Cisco CCNA curriculum, firewall essentials, and basic network operations.  This certificate also provides the foundation for the following industry-recognized certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Security+, and a partial foundation for Cisco CCNA.

Cybersecurity Certificate Requirements

Cybersecurity Certificate Requirements

  • Credits: 3

    Introduction to Cybersecurity

    This course provides the student with a thorough understanding of how to identify what needs to be protected, how to protect it, and how to identify threats against the digital resource’s individuals and organizations value. A basic understanding of the cybersecurity landscape will be explored to guide the student into the knowledge and understanding necessary to accomplish privacy, security, and defense, spanning from the end user to the data-intensive enterprise networks and systems. The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow; this introductory cybersecurity course will offer insight to the world of securing information whether you want to pursue an entry-level networking or security professional position.

  • Credits: 4

    Introduction to Networking

    Introduction to Networking covers the essentials of hardware, software, and other elements that comprise today’s data networking environments. Topics covered include network hardware, topologies, transmission media, operating systems, systems administration, security, and IT standards. Lab activities include basic diagnostic software use, network troubleshooting, and solo and team activities designed to build interpersonal communication skills. This course helps prepare students to pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108.
  • Credits: 4

    Computer and Network Hardware

    This course helps prepare students to pass the hardware/networking component of the CompTIA A+ certification.  The following areas are covered in both a lecture and hands-on-lab environment: mobile device configuration, networking and wireless configurations, hardware components, basic virtualization and cloud computing concepts, and network hardware troubleshooting.

    Corequisite(s): ITI 108. 
  • Credits: 4

    Operating Systems and Software

    This course helps prepare students to pass the software/operating systems component of the CompTIA A+ certification. The following areas are covered in both a lecture and hands-on lab environment: operating systems installation and configuration, basic device security, software configuration and troubleshooting, and basic IT operational procedures.

    Corequisite(s): ITI 107.
  • Credits: 4

    Windows Client-Server

    This course targets the fundamentals of Microsoft Windows network operating systems and the Azure cloud. Students install and configure Windows network operating systems as domain controllers in a basic network security model. At the conclusion of this course, students are able to create user and group accounts, set up security policies, domain trust relationships and Active Directory Domain Services for network resource accessibility and administration.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108.
  • Credits: 4

    The Linux Operating System

    This course targets the Linux operating system. Students will install the Linux operating system and configure a basic Linux network including a server and workstation. At the conclusion of this course, students will be able to configure user and group accounts and use network resources including applications and printing.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in ITI 107 and ITI 108. 
    • Credits: 3

      Introduction to Communication

      This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      Public Speaking

      This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      Interpersonal Communication

      This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students learn how to become both effective and appropriate communicators in a variety of contexts. Students also develop good listening and responding skills, conflict management strategies, sensitivity to language and an understanding of cultural and gender differences.

      Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better inENG 100 or ENG 101. 
    • Credits: 5

      Composition I With Support

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.  English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      Composition I

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.

    • Credits: 3

      U.S. History I: to 1865

      This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      U.S. History II: 1865-Present

      This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing.  HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

    • or
    • Credits: 3

      American Government and Politics

      This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.

Locations Offered

Notices & Disclaimers

*Costs displayed are based on current tuition and fee rates for the program’s required credit hours, as approved by the OTC Board of Trustees, and are subject to change without notice. Estimates reflect both in-district and out-of-district residency rates. Actual costs, degree completion time, and credit requirements may vary based on residency, prior credits, elective courses, program updates, and enrollment factors. For additional information on attendance costs, visit Cost of Attendancetuition and fees or contact us at 417-447-6900.

**Graduation rates vary by individual. For details on program enrollment, retention, exam/certification, and employment rates, visit Student Outcomes / Student Right-to-Know. Some careers on this list may require additional education and training. For program-specific accreditation visit OTC Accreditation.