Security Certified Program (SCP) Certification and Certificate Options
The SCNA certification provides students with insight on different types of hardware and software, and how to implement and develop network security strategy and policy. The coursework is for advanced, experienced IT professionals.
Currently, certified SCNPs are eligible to take the courses necessary to pursue the SCNA designation. Students should understand networks, networking, and network security.
Students complete two advanced courses in network security, Advanced Security Implementation and Enterprise Security Solutions. Topics of study include:
- Law and legislation
- Forensics
- Wireless security
- Secure e-mail
- Biometrics
- PKI policy and architecture
Popular Career Options
The SCNP designation is a middle-tier certification that prepares those who complete the process for a variety of career paths, including the following:
- Security professional
- Security management
- Wireless security specialist
- Cisco Security specialist
- Ethical hacking specialist
Information technology (IT) professionals who have earned the SCNS designation may fill the following roles:
- IT technician
- Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level 2 Position (government employee)
A recipient of the SCNA designation generally fulfills a leadership role within an information technology department. Specific positions may include:
- Security administrator
- Information technology manager
Employment Prospects and Salary Info
Individuals who hold both a bachelor’s degree in an IT-related field and the SCNA credential may find jobs as network architects. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that median salaries for these professionals came to $116,780 in 2020. A 5% increase in job opportunities was projected by the BLS for computer network architects from 2019-2029.
Continuing Education
There are a wide range of training programs and certifications available depending upon interest, career goals, and specific hardware or software needs. Various vendors, such as Microsoft, Novell, and Cisco, offer some of the most recognized designations.
Information technology professionals can enroll in the Security Certified Program to train for three different levels of certification. Individuals with these credentials can work various IT jobs and may wish to pursue additional certifications.