Next information session
All courses in this program will be delivered online (OA, OS, OR) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
The Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate program addresses the business risks specific to securing control systems in sectors such as drilling and well sites, power plants, power grid, water plants, manufacturing, production lines, telecommunications, and hospitals.
Many of these systems were previously analog-based, but are currently networked and digital, placing them at greater risk for cyber-attacks. Many of the concepts will be similar to those used to secure information in technology systems, but the training will focus on the specific constraints of securing control systems in the industrial environment.
It is applicable to employees of organizations relying on technology, whether their cybersecurity focus is on information technology (IT), industrial control systems (ICS), cyber-physical systems (CPS), or connected devices more generally, including the Internet of Things (IoT). Thus, while this program is focused on graduates who can improve cybersecurity risk management in control system environments, it can be used by graduates in many organizations - regardless of size, degree of cybersecurity risk, or cybersecurity sophistication - to apply the principles and best practices of risk management to improve safety, reliability, security and resilience of these systems.
Is this the right fit for me?
This is an intensive program requiring a commitment of both time and energy; students who experience success are those who make their education a priority throughout the program.
The ideal candidate for the Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate has a previous post-secondary diploma or degree.
You have education and/or work experience in industrial systems (SCADA, PLCs, Instrumentation, etc.) and/or computer networking or related fields.
You understand the importance of cybersecurity and are intrigued by the ways that critical infrastructure and operations technologies can be compromised and want to protect these assets. You have a strong ethical standard and a curious mind.
Credential
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Cyber Security for Control Systems post-diploma certificate.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- cyber security analyst/specialist
- cyber security analyst/specialist
- ICS security analyst/specialist
- industrial technologist
- ICS infrastructure analyst
- SCADA security technologist
- Industrial network/systems/security analyst
Related careers include:
- cyber forensic investigator
- database analyst
- computer support analyst
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $15,238
Year 1 (International): $24,104
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Full costs
Tuition and financial aid
This program is eligible for Canada-Alberta Job Grant funding.
Get started as an undeclared student
The courses in the Cyber Security for Control Systems program allow for registration into individual courses as an undeclared student without going through the SAIT application process first.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for spring 2022 opened on June 14, 2021.
- Applications for fall 2022 open Oct. 6, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Oct. 4, 2021 | Feb. 26, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 | Sept. 16, 2022 |
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | Dec. 16, 2022 |
Shifting career gears: From administration to cybersecurity
After completing a diploma in criminal justice and working in administration, Lauren was looking for a new challenge — and to transition into the exciting world of tech. Bridging her previous experience with future aspirations, she’s now plugged into a promising career in cybersecurity.
Admission requirements
Applications are open until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Spring 2022 start: applications opened on June 14, 2022.
- Fall 2022 start: applications open on Oct. 6, 2021.
Applicants must meet one of the following (or equivalent), as well as the English Proficiency requirement*:
- Completion of a two-year diploma or undergraduate degree in information technology, instrumentation or related technical discipline.
- Three to five years of experience in information technology, instrumentation or a related technical discipline would also be accepted with approval from the program Academic Chair. A combination of education and experience will be considered.
* All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
You may apply to complete the credential at any time through ApplyAlberta at which time you will have to submit transcripts for entrance into the credential. You must complete all pre-requisite courses, or apply for Prior Learning assessment if you wish to get credit for a required course based on previous education or experience.
Get started as an undeclared student
The courses in the Cyber Security for Control Systems part-time program allow for registration into individual courses as an undeclared student without going through the SAIT application process first. It is important that you read the ideal candidate statement above to be sure that you are a good fit for these courses. Also, you must submit a resume to ict.info@sait.ca to validate the optional courses you should take as part of the program.
Courses
Program outline
The courses listed are not shown in the instructional order. Due to the nature of the fast-track programs some courses may be modified or replaced.
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Elective courses (chose one)
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CPSY-401 | Operating Systems and Shell Programming | 3.0 |
| CPRG-407 | Programming Industrial Control Systems | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 3.0 | |
Students have to take one or the other of these first two elective courses, considered pre-requisite electives.
Core courses
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ITSC-401 | Strategic Fundamentals of Cyber Warfare | 1.5 |
| CMPN-403 | Networking Protocols and Security | 3.0 |
| CMPC-401 | Security Standards and Compliance | 3.0 |
| CMPC-402 | Industrial Control System Security | 3.0 |
| CMPC-403 | Industrial Control System Security Risk Assessment | 3.0 |
| ITSC-402 | Vulnerability, Threats and Attacks | 3.0 |
| ITSC-403 | Defence and Incident Response | 3.0 |
| MMGT-400 | Business Operations and Change Management for ICS Security | 1.5 |
| PROJ-405 | ICS Cyber Security Capstone Project | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 24.0 | |
| Total Program Credits | 27.0 | |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $13,905 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $15,238 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $22,769 | $793.20 | $288.77 | $252 | $24,104 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside this time frame.
SAIT Fees
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
Health and Dental Fees
Domestic Students
- Health Plan: $122
- Dental Plan: $130
- For students with existing health and/or dental plans, please refer to the Saitsa website for information on opting out.
International Students
- Health and Dental Plan: $252
- For more information on Health and Dental Benefits for International students please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
- For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a device that meets the standard hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
- Find out about tuition and financial aid.
* Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program has no set orientation date.
Learn more about campus orientation.
How to register for classes
You'll follow a fixed block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a custom hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
The recommended hardware and software requirements are:
- Processor: i7
- RAM: 16 GB or greater
- Storage: 512 GB SSD or greater
- Video card: onboard integrated
- Screen size: 15" or greater
- Screen resolution: 1920 x 1080 or greater
- OS version: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit with antivirus/malware protection
- Approximate price (CAD): $1,800
Preparation courses
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace D2Lbefore the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
Textbooks and materials will be identified during your courses. You will not need to purchase these ahead of time.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8543
ict.techstudents@sait.ca
Academic chair
Jessica Ager
jessica.ager@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Student Guidelines
Review the student guidelines to learn about the School of Information and Communications Technologies' expectations before you start your studies.