Herzing University IT Instructor Wins Cisco Cybersecurity Scholarship

A Herzing University information technology instructor has been selected by Cisco to receive a Global Cybersecurity Scholarship, making her one of the first in her field to have the opportunity to become CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certified in cybersecurity operations.

The scholarship will allow Linda Johnson, a seven-year instructor at Herzing University-Atlanta, to receive free online training, mentoring and testing to help her earn her CCNA Cyber Ops certification. A former Herzing University student also received the award.

Through this global initiative, Cisco aims to help close the emerging security skills gap in corporations and data centers around the world. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts that job opportunities for information security analysts will grow by as much as 36.5 percent through 2022.

“I chose to pursue this scholarship because I am committed to lifelong learning,” said Johnson, who teaches CCNA Security, Microsoft MCSA and Cisco Routing and Switching courses at Herzing. “By becoming CCNA Cyber Ops certified, I can continue to equip our students with the knowledge and the skills that they need to pursue advanced career opportunities.”

Herzing University offers courses that prepare students for 10 sought-after industry certifications and also has a dual credit program, which allows students to earn up to 12 credits toward their MBA while completing their bachelor’s degree. Many exam costs are even covered by the cost of tuition, including:

• CCNA Routing & Switching
• CompTIA Security+
• Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)

“These certifications do more than help students build their resumes,” said Chris LaBounty, system division director for technology at Herzing University. “These additional credentials have the potential to enhance students’ career prospects and technical capabilities, opening the door to many diverse and emerging career pathways.”

In addition to the above certifications that are included in the cost of tuition, the following certification opportunities may also exist dependent on the program. Students may have access to discounted pricing for some of these exams:

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
•  CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
•  LPI-1/Linux+
•  MCSA
•  VCA – VMware
•  Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
•  Java Foundations Certified Junior Associate