Rend Lake College News

US Homeland Security backs short-term Cyber Security training at RLC

Written by Kendra Gregory | Aug 1, 2025 2:30:00 PM

INA, Ill. (August 1, 2025) — Demand is high for professionals who can stop cyber threats and protect sensitive data. Rend Lake College is helping students step into this field through a short-term Cyber Security Specialist certificate, backed by US Homeland Security.

About the Certificate

The Cyber Security Specialist certificate is a certified training program for the US Department of Homeland Security's National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS). Students will learn the necessary knowledge and skills to detect and mitigate cyber-attacks by understanding attack vectors, investigating intrusions and creating proactive defense methods.

This certificate focuses on the tools, tactics and technologies used in the field of cyber security, and offers a balance of classroom and laboratory activities. The certificate is spread across four semesters and includes courses such as:

  • Hardware and Operating Systems
  • Linux Networking
  • Fundamentals of Information Security
  • Hacking Techniques and Tools
  • Network Security, Firewalls & VPNs

Interested in starting the Cyber Security certificate? Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch. Or visit rlc.edu/information-technology for more information.