New York, N.Y. (March 15, 2023) – The New York State Education Department approved two new tracks within the Information Technology (IT) programs of study at Stella and Charles Guttman Community College: Information Technology, A.A.S –Cybersecurity and Networking tracks.
The two new tracks will enable students to tailor their education to specific interests and learn sought-after skills for today’s workforce. Using interdisciplinary and experiential approaches, the IT program lays a solid technological and digital knowledge base leading to further study and professional advancement in this competitive field.
As Guttman grows, providing specialized tracks within the IT program will be advantageous to both students and the institution, as such opportunities keep the program at the forefront of industry innovation and increase students’ desirability in the job market. The new Networking track, led by Guttman faculty member Dr. Jinzhong Niu, will provide students with the requisite knowledge and skills for entry-level positions within Help Desk and networking fields. Students in the track will work with outstanding faculty to demystify and navigate the world of networking technology, envisioning their futures in IT.
“The Networking Track within our Information Technology program is a critical addition to our academic offerings, as the need for skilled IT technicians continues to grow since the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Nicola Blake.
The new Cybersecurity track provides students with an opportunity to gain the requisite knowledge and skills for entry-level positions within related fields. Blending theory and practice, this inclusive, high-impact curriculum consists of opportunities for students to experience and apply the information and skills they acquire. Thus equipped, Cybersecurity graduates are poised to thrive upon transfer to a baccalaureate program or entry into an intellectually and financially rewarding career. The Cybersecurity track will be led by Guttman faculty members Dr. Jinzhong Niu and Dr. Dalvin Hill.
“Expanding opportunities that provide economic mobility for students, especially those from marginalized populations within STEM fields, is at the forefront of Guttman’s mission,” said Blake. “We are excited to offer this groundbreaking Cybersecurity track at a time when cybersecurity threats are heightened and as the demand for a skilled workforce continues to grow in this field.”
Stella and Charles Guttman Community College was CUNY’s first new community college in more than forty years. Reimagining what community college could be, Guttman opened its doors in Manhattan in August 2012 to create a research-based, innovative model focused on moving students efficiently toward graduation. Offering associate degree programs in a nurturing environment, the College’s three-year graduation rate consistently surpasses the national average, and most graduates transfer to senior colleges. Guttman is federally designated as a Hispanic-serving institution and minority-serving institution with more than 85% of the student population identifying as Latine or Black/African American. The College was named the best community college in America in 2020 and the top community college in New York State for 2020, 2021 and 2022 by Niche.com and other ranking agencies.
