College Adds Accelerated Online Format Option To The Cybersecurity Certificate
Posted October 15, 2025 at 8:57 amPennsylvania Highlands Community College has announced the Cybersecurity Certificate program will now be offered in a fully online, accelerated format, beginning this upcoming Spring 2026 semester.
The Cybersecurity Certificate can now be completed over both the Spring and Summer semesters. The program consists of seven classes, totaling 22 credits, and will run annually.
“The new certificate format allows existing students to retake or catch up on core courses without getting off track,” stated Greg Paonessa, Assistant Professor of Computer Technology. “The online nature of the courses will also allow more students access to the Cybersecurity program without limits on their geographical locations, helping students achieve their associate’s degree in case they’re having any issues with past core courses or attending typical in-person classes.”
The inaugural Spring semester will feature four courses, with two scheduled during the first seven weeks and the remaining two during the second seven weeks.
In the Summer semester, students will complete two courses during the Summer A session (the first six weeks) and the final course during the Summer B session (the last six weeks).
The College hopes to offer this certificate with a Fall semester start as well, making the accelerated program available year-round.
“This new offering will provide flexible and timely in-demand training for students across our region,” stated Michelle Stumpf, Dean of Enrollment & Registrar. “It opens the door for working professionals, as well as students new to higher education, to gain not only high-level technical training, but the opportunity to earn industry certifications in the cybersecurity arena.”
Click here to visit our Institute for Cyber Security (ICS) for more details on this certificate and other related programs. ICS programs are connected to the Cyber ACCESS project. The Cyber ACCESS project is supported with ARISE funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC).