Programme Summary
The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity programme at Buea Institute of Technology (BIT) is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to start a career in cybersecurity.
This globally recognized certification, developed by Cisco, validates entry-level cybersecurity competencies, including:
- Security principles
- Network and endpoint security
- Vulnerability assessment
- Risk management
- Incident handling
Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, with over 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions projected globally by 2025. By completing this programme, you position yourself for roles such as Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Technician, and IT Help Desk Support Specialist.
This certification is also the perfect stepping stone to advanced certifications like the Cisco Certified Cybersecurity Associate, CCNA, and other professional IT certifications.
Why Choose CCST Cybersecurity?
- Globally Recognized – Earn an industry-standard certification from Cisco.
- High Job Demand – Build skills for one of the fastest-growing career paths in IT.
- Practical Skills – Hands-on training with real-world cybersecurity tools and techniques.
- Career Advancement – Gain an edge in job interviews and salary negotiations.
- Foundation for Growth – Seamlessly progress to advanced certifications and roles.
Course Outline
The CCST Cybersecurity curriculum covers five core modules that prepare you for the Cisco CCST Cybersecurity Exam (Exam Code: 100-160).
| Course Code | Module | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| WSD602 | Essential Security Principles | – Fundamentals of cybersecurity – Understanding threats, vulnerabilities, and exploits – Security policies and best practices |
| WSD604 | Basic Network Security Concepts | – OSI and TCP/IP models – Network defense mechanisms – Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and VPNs |
| WSD606 | Endpoint Security Concepts | – Securing operating systems and devices – Malware detection and prevention – Patch management |
| WSD608 | Vulnerability Assessment and Risk Management | – Risk assessment methodologies – Vulnerability scanning tools – Mitigation and remediation strategies |
| WSD610 | Incident Handling and Response | – Cyberattack identification and response – Digital forensics basics – Incident reporting and documentation |
Exam Duration: 50 minutes
Question Format: Multiple choice and practical scenarios
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme can pursue the following roles:
- Junior Cybersecurity Analyst: A Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, monitors networks and systems, keeping a close eye on unusual activities or threats.
- Cybersecurity Technician: A Cybersecurity Technician plays a hands-on role in defending an organization’s systems and devices. You’ll be the person configuring security tools, setting up firewalls, and protecting endpoints from viruses and malware.
- IT Help Desk Support (Tier 1): These are the first point of contact for employees or clients experiencing technical issues, providing quick solutions and guiding them toward safe practices.
- Cybersecurity Incident Responder: Incident Responders are the heroes who jump into action. They work to contain threats, prevent further damage, and investigate the cause of the breach.
- SOC (Security Operations Center) Analyst – Entry Level: SOC Analysts work in high-tech monitoring centers, watching over networks 24/7 to detect cyber threats in real time.
With additional experience and certifications, you can grow into roles such as Cybersecurity Engineer, Penetration Tester, or Information Security Manager.
Entry Requirements
To enroll in the CCST Cybersecurity Certificate Programme, applicants must have:
- Basic computer literacy (familiarity with using computers and the internet).
- A minimum of GCE A-Level or equivalent.
- Interest in technology and problem-solving.
- No prior cybersecurity or networking experience is required.
Programme Duration
- Training Duration: 6 Months (24 weeks)
- Schedule Options:
- Weekday Classes: Morning or Afternoon
- Weekend Classes: Saturday
Certification
Upon completion of the training, students will be prepared to sit for the Cisco Certified Support Technician – Cybersecurity Exam (100-160), administered through Pearson VUE.
Successful candidates will earn a global Cisco certification, recognized by employers worldwide.
Learning Pathway
The CCST Cybersecurity programme serves as a launchpad to more advanced certifications:
- CCST Cybersecurity → 2. Cisco Cybersecurity Associate → 3. CCNA / Other Specialist Certifications
Why Study CCST Cybersecurity at BIT?
- Authorized Cisco Networking Academy resources
- Experienced instructors with industry certifications
- State-of-the-art computer labs and simulation tools
- Access to Cisco Networking Academy online platform
- Personalized career guidance and mentorship
How to Apply
- Visit the BIT Admissions Office or apply online at: www.bit.edu.cm/apply
- For inquiries, call +237 653299033 or email info@bit.edu.cm
Tuition & Fees
- Registration: 15,000frs
- Tuition: 200,000frs
For details on available payment plans, please contact the BIT Admissions Office.
Programme Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of cybersecurity principles and practices.
- Identify and mitigate security threats to networks and endpoints.
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and manage risks.
- Respond effectively to cybersecurity incidents.
- Sit for and pass the CCST Cybersecurity certification exam.
