IT & Cybersecurity: Building the Backbone of Modern Communities

Is IT & Cybersecurity right for me?

  • Does the latest technology perk your imagination?

  • Do you enjoy helping others and taking on rewarding challenges?

  • Do you love to problem solve?

If so, a career in Information Technology (IT) & Cybersecurity may be the perfect fit for you. In an IT & Cybersecurity career, you will often work with other people to solve technological problems and choose the right technology for the circumstances. Specialties include network administration, information security, and systems administration.

Your Pathway to Success

Keep reading to explore our comprehensive guide to Montana training programs in IT. Whether you're seeking rapid training programs, certificates, or advanced degrees, you'll find diverse educational pathways to help you align your studies with your career goals.

Check out our Digital Technology Career Pathways page to explore in-demand IT & cybersecurity jobs in Montana and take the first step toward a successful career in IT & cybersecurity.

Table of Contents

Rapid Training, Certificates, and One- and Two-Year Programs

  • Courses in Information Technology (pdf pg. 95)

    • Program Length: Semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: Although Chief Dull Knife College doesn’t currently have a certificate or degree program dedicated to information technology, there are still plenty of opportunities to engage with the quickly growing field. Chief Dull Knife College offers courses in PC repair, web design, local area networks, and more.

  • Courses in Information Systems (pdf pg. 108)

    • Program Length: Semester (15 weeks)

    • Description: Little Big Horn College offers a variety of information systems courses in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, operating systems, telecommunications, and more.

    Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Information Technology (pdf pg. 61)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Information Systems – Information Technology curriculum (pdf pg. 61) is designed to prepare a student for entry level employment in the local and regional office and small business environment. The Information Technology program of study prepares a student with in-depth knowledge and demonstrated applications of specific Microsoft applications, and computerized accounting software. This associate of applied science program is founded on the General Education Core Requirements, to provide a broad-based academic background and preparation for the work environment and membership in the community.

  • Courses in Information Technology Systems

    • Program Length: 1 semester (15 weeks)

    Information Technology and Security, Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The FVCC Information Technology and Security program deals with the application of computers, networks and security to business problems. The program provides in-depth study of the use of computer applications, systems design and analysis, and the application of the computer as a functional tool within an organization and techniques and tools that can be used to keep these assets safe.

  • Cloud Computing C.T.S.

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Missoula College’s C.T.S. in Cloud Computing is designed to provide the foundations for students to understand, use, and provision cloud resources. As cloud computing becomes ever more prevalent in society these skills become ever more necessary. Students will gain competence in general networking and network infrastructure; installation, use, and administration of Operating Systems; Virtualization; fundamental security concepts; and cloud computing concepts, use, and provisioning.

    Computer Support C.T.S.

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Missoula College’s Computer Support C.T.S. teaches students the basics of PC Maintenance/Repair, Cloud Systems, OS networks and more.

    Cybersecurity C.T.S.

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The C.T.S. in Cybersecurity at Missoula College provides students with practical knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, including knowledge about basic networking, operating systems, network administration, multiple aspects of cybersecurity, and the policy and legal ramifications of cybersecurity.

    Information Technology and Cybersecurity, Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Technical support professionals in computing and information technology are in high demand. Missoula College’s Information Technology program offers a number of pathways to credentials. Develop a well-rounded technical background with coursework in data modeling, networking, operating systems, PC hardware, coding, programming, and more. Specific areas of study include computer support, and a network admin and security concentration curriculum. Our general education curriculum prepares students with the communication, critical thinking, teamwork, and problem- solving skills valued by employers. Combining knowledge, skills, abilities, and tangible experience ensures our graduates are prepared to succeed in an ever-changing workforce

  • Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) in Information Technology

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Fort Peck Community College’s certificate programs are intended to provide the student with training for immediate employment upon completion of one year of study. They tie into AAS degrees in business, computer technology, automotive technology, and business technology. Because of the concentrated training in the specific vocation, a minimum of ten credits in Related Instruction is required.

    Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Cybersecurity/Networking Technology

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Cybersecurity Network Technology Associate of Applied Science (AAS) offers you a way to fully develop and gain confidence in IT skills, prepare for taking IT certification exams, and earn a valuable credential that prepares you for jobs in this in-demand career field. Coursework in the Cybersecurity / Network Technology AAS degree program aligns with widely recognized and respected IT industry certifications and prepares you with the foundational skills needed to enter the IT profession. Integrating hands-on, applied learning with theory, you will gain practical knowledge and skills essential for a variety of IT positions.

  • Certificate of Applied Science (C.A.S.) in IT Computer Network Technology

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: Students in the IT Computer Network Technology program at Gallatin College MSU have the opportunity to pursue either an one-year Certificate of Applied Science or a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in preparation for careers in the growing Information Technology (IT) industry. Students are introduced to the design, implementation, and management of linked systems of computers and peripherals, as well as ways to maximize network efficiency and productivity. Students will learn to work on computer hardware, software and applications; local area (LAN) and wide area (WAN) networks; principles of information systems security; disk space and traffic load monitoring; data backup; resource allocation and setup and takedown procedures. The final goal of this program is to prepare students to sit for the CompTIA A+ certification test, the CompTIA Network + certification, the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification and/or the Microsoft Technology Associate certification.

    Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Cybersecurity & Information Assurance

    • Program Length:

      • C.T.S. = 1 year;

      • A.A.S. = 2 years

  • Cybersecurity Certificate of Technical Studies (C.T.S.)

    • Program Length: 1 year

    • Description: The Cybersecurity Certificate Degree is offered completely online and will prepare students with additional, career tools to continue on the path to a technician/system analyst with a focus on the skills required to understand and conceptualize, design, procure, and/or build secure information technology (IT) systems. Upon completion of the Cybersecurity Certificate Degree, students will be able to successfully provide the support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure effective and efficient information technology (IT) system performance and security as an entry level or higher systems technician/system analyst.

    Cybersecurity Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Cybersecurity Degree prepares students for a career as a system technician/system analyst with a focus on the skills required to understand and conceptualize, design, procure, and/or build secure information technology (IT) systems. Upon completion of the Cybersecurity Degree, students will be able to successfully provide the support, administration, and maintenance necessary to ensure effective and efficient information technology (IT) system performance and security as an entry level or higher systems technician/system analyst.

    Health Information Technology A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Health Information Technology program is offered completely online and is designed to prepare individuals to organize and evaluate health records for completeness and accuracy. Upon completion of the AAS degree in Health Information Technology, students will be prepared to begin a successful career as a health information technologist. Students are prepared to sit for the National Registered Health Information Technologist exam administered by AHIMA. The Health Information Technology program is accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM).

  • Computer Networks and Cybersecurity, A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 yearw

    • Description: Demand is high for cybersecurity professionals in every industry, thanks to a greater emphasis on cloud computing, gathering and storing big data, and information security. The A.A.S. cybersecurity degree at Montana Tech gives you a strong foundation for success in cybersecurity careers. Everything you learn in the classroom is reinforced through intensive, cutting-edge, on-campus and virtual labs.

  • Network Technician Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    PC Maintenance Assistant Certificate

    • Program Length: 1 year

    Information Technology Network and PC Maintenance Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

  • Cybersecurity Management Certificate


    • Program Length: 1 year


    • Description: College of Business undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Montana have the opportunity to earn credentials (certificates) in Cybersecurity Management. This specialized area is designed to provide you with the technical and managerial skills necessary to work in the cybersecurity field – a key priority among today’s organizations. You will explore a variety of cybersecurity management topics and apply that knowledge through innovative applications.

  • Computer Information Systems, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: Computer Information Systems (CIS) graduates will be prepared for technical positions using and supporting computer hardware and software. This degree program prepares students for occupations where computer work ranges from computer applications to network administration.

  • Computer System Technology Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: In the Computer Systems Technology (CST) degree at City College, you will gain hands-on experience with troubleshooting and supporting corporate networks, networking and routing (Cisco levels 1-8), applications (Microsoft Office), operating systems (Windows Server), answering clients' inquiries concerning hardware and software, and cybersecurity. Upon successful completion of the degree, you will be prepared for a variety of industry certifications, such as Cisco and CompTIA Cybersecurity.

    Cybersecurity and Networking, A.A.S.

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: City College’s Cybersecurity and Networking A.A.S. curriculum will prepare you for the growing demands of this career field. In addition to cybersecurity training, you will learn how to provide technical solutions to problems related to hardware and software applications that arise in office settings. This is accomplished through problem analysis using hands-on training, phone service support, and a variety of electronic means to achieve high-level customer satisfaction. Upon successful completion of the program, you will be prepared for a variety of industry certifications, such as CompTIA Cybersecurity and Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician.

  • Information Technology, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Information Technology (IT) provides students with broad and versatile skills to solve a wide range of problems in the field. The core of the curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of IT with a focus on computer hardware, operating systems, system administration, networking, and information security. Students will learn how to handle current and future IT business needs. The AS level program utilizes curricula that focuses on the following certifications: CompTIA A+, Cisco CCNA, and the Microsoft 365 Modern Desktop Administrator Associate Certification. The program prepares students for entry level IT helpdesk technician and technology support positions within the workforce.

  • Cybersecurity and Data Privacy (A.A.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The AAS in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy prepares students for entry-level positions in cybersecurity and data privacy. Graduates will be prepared to become leaders in cybersecurity, with a solid understanding of security technology and privacy laws, preparing them to make knowledgeable and responsible decisions.

    Information Systems, Associate of Science (A.S.)

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Information Systems program at Stone Child College is designed to provide the basic education and foundation in the information systems field. Students will be provided with a wide range of skills to solve a variety of problems in the technology field. The curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of information technology, basic programming, database, networking, information security, website development and operating systems. Upon completion, students will be prepared for entry level information systems positions.

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Minors and Four-Year Programs

  • Computer Information Systems Minor or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • B.A. = 4 years

    • Description: Carroll’s CIS program not only offers a very personalized learning experience, but it also offers an authentic real-world learning experience. Students learn by doing projects that are based on real-life applications. In addition, the required CIS Internship gives students that on-the-job experience that reinforces and applies what they have learned in the classroom and gives them a competitive advantage in the job market. The CIS program at Carroll also allows students to emphasize their learning in several ways. Students can focus on Business Technology, Interdisciplinary Studies which integrates the liberal arts into technology, or prepare for graduate school.

    Cybersecurity Minor or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • B.A. = 4 years

    • Description: A degree in cybersecurity at Carroll College teaches you how to protect computer systems, devices, networks, and databases from digital attacks. A cybersecurity degree can prepare you for high-paying jobs in a growing industry in an increasingly digitized society. Within this program, students will assess modern cybersecurity challenges that threaten our privacy, security, and safety and gain both the knowledge and hands-on technical skills to protect digital assets from cyber criminals who leverage sophisticated social and cyber tactics to facilitate attacks.

  • Business and Information Technology Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: B.S. = 4 years

    • Description: The world revolves around technology. More than 50 percent of all U.S. economic activity is related to information technology (IT). With Montana Tech’s Business and Information Technology Bachelor of Science, you will have job opportunities in a variety of industries, including entertainment, national defense, petroleum, transportation, education, health care, and finance. Information systems are also key components in the success of other functional business areas such as accounting, supply chain management, finance, and marketing.

    Cybersecurity and Network Administration B.S.

    • Program Length:

      • Minor = 3 years

      • B.S. = 4 years

    • Description: Develop the knowledge and skills you need for cybersecurity careers with the cybersecurity bachelor’s degree at Montana Tech. You’ll learn to design, develop, secure, and support computer networks through a cybersecurity degree that’s rooted in information technology. You’ll also be equipped to pass examinations for industry-recognized certifications. Montana Tech’s cybersecurity faculty is made up of seasoned information technology veterans who bring decades of real-world experience in cybersecurity careers to you. Gain hands-on experience through a cybersecurity degree that includes intensive labs with state-of-the-art industry hardware and software. You’ll also increase your knowledge and skills through cybersecurity internships in Montana and across the country.

  • Cybersecurity Bachelor of Science (BS)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: UM’s face-to-face cybersecurity bachelor’s program will prepare you for entry-level cybersecurity positions where you will use your skills to help businesses and organizations secure their data against cyber-attacks. The cybersecurity degree at UM instills in knowledge of operating information systems and networking technologies, as well as an understanding of how businesses and organizations operate.

    Management Information Systems Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

    • Program Length: 4 years

    • Description: Earn your degree in management information systems in the University of Montana’s AACSB accredited program and prepare for high-paying careers in IT consulting, systems and business analysis, and network administration. This STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) program will give you the skills to use both information and technology to enhance an organization's strategic advantage. All management and information systems majors participate in at least one internship, and our matriculating students are the highest-paid undergraduates at the University of Montana.

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Post-Graduate Programs

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Cybersecurity

    • Program Length: 2 years

    • Description: The Master of Science in Cybersecurity prepares students to support the information security needs of businesses. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing career fields. The M.S. in Cybersecurity requires a minimum of 30 post-baccalaureate credits and is designed for students who have earned a baccalaureate degree in Computer Science (CS) or a related program.

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Skill Development and Certifications

  • Accelerate Montana is partnering with Gener8tor Skills to teach a free CompTIA A+ Certification Test Prep course to prepare Montanans for in-demand IT jobs. Participants will benefit from small, supportive cohorts and receive one-on-one guidance to achieve career success. Students are expected to take the CompTIA A+ exam within one month from the end of the course. Learners will need 10-15 hours a week for this course. This course is ideal for someone who is already computer savvy and interested in a career in IT. Potential learners should contact Will Richards at will.richards[at]mso.umt.edu to learn more. Twenty-five Montanans will be selected from the final applicant pool to take the class. Download flyer.

  • Accelerate Montana is partnering with Gener8tor Skills to teach a free CompTIA Network+ Certification Test Prep course to help Montanans develop their IT careers. Participants will benefit from small, supportive cohorts and receive one-on-one guidance to achieve career success. Students are expected to take the CompTIA Network+ exam within one week from the end of the course. Learners will need 15-20 hrs/week for this course. This course is ideal for IT professionals who already have the CompTIA A+ certification and a minimum of 9 - 12 months of work experience in the IT industry. Potential learners should contact Will Richards at will.richards[at]mso.umt.edu to learn more. Download flyer.

  • CyberMontana is Montana's hub for the cyber workforce economy and offers cybersecurity certifications, trainings, K-12 education resources, and more.

  • The Montana Code School is a software development bootcamps powered by Promineo Tech. The 18-week coding bootcamps prepare participants for high-growth careers in software development and are designed to be accessible, flexible, and allow working professionals who are actively seeking a career change to do so. Students choose from one of two tracks - Back End Software Developer or Front End Software Developer.

  • Build in-demand cloud skills—your way—with the AWS training and certification online learning center. Whether you're new to the cloud, an experienced builder, or an organization looking to innovate at scale, the AWS Skill Builder can help you stay current and reach your goals.

  • Microsoft Azure is a cloud computing platform with an ever-expanding set of services to help you build solutions to meet your business goals. Azure has simple web services for hosting your business presence in the cloud. Azure also supports running fully virtualized computers managing your custom software solutions. Azure provides a wealth of cloud-based services like remote storage, database hosting, and centralized account management. Azure also offers new capabilities like artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) focused services.

  • The Cisco Networking Pro certification (formerly known as Routing and Switching Pro) prepares you for the Cisco CCNA (200-301) certification and real-world networking roles.

  • The CompTIA A+ Certification establishes the fundamentals of IT by helping candidates better understand how pieces of tech communicate with each other. Candidates will be better prepared to troubleshoot, problem-solve and understand a wide variety of issues ranging from networking and operating systems to mobile devices and security. A+ supports the ability to connect users to the data they need to do their jobs regardless of the devices being used.

  • Expand your knowledge on all things Docker with basic to advanced trainings from Docker experts. Check out the Now Streaming sections to find recorded content at your convenience, or register for a live session to participate in a Q&A.

  • The ITIL certification helps candidates better understand the four pillars of IT capability. The ITIL 4 Foundation is for anyone who needs to understand the key concepts of IT and digital service delivery, and who is interested in helping their organization embrace the new service management culture. It is for professionals at the start of their ITIL 4 journey or people looking to update their existing ITIL knowledge. The course will help you better understand how modern IT and digital service organizations operate, how value streams increase speed and efficiency, how cultural or behavioral principles guide work that benefits the wider organization, and how to utilize commonly used service management terms and concepts.

  • Java is the most popular programming language according to the TIOBE Index. Learn how to program in Java in this full course from Tim Ruscica for freeCodeCamp. This is a complete Java course meant for absolute beginners. No prior programming experience is required.

  • Explore a detailed JavaScript developer roadmap, covering everything from basic syntax to advanced topics.

  • Kubernetes.io offers free courses on edX and comprehensive training and certification programs through the Linux Foundation.

  • Real Python offers comprehensive learning paths for beginners to advanced users, covering Python programming fundamentals, web development, data science, and more.

  • Structured query language (SQL) is a programming language for storing and processing information in a relational database. Explore comprehensive SQL learning paths from basic syntax to advanced querying.

  • The University of Providence’s Argo Connect and dual credit programs are crucial in helping to increase the educational options and opportunities for currently enrolled high school juniors and seniors. Not only do these programs provide students with a unique opportunity to earn credit at the secondary and postsecondary levels simultaneously – they provide students with an early glimpse of college life; including course load, deadlines, structure, and more. Students in Dual Enrollment can take up to three 3-credit courses at no cost.

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Additional Career Resources

  • Check out our IT & Cybersecurity career pathways page to explore in-demand IT jobs in Montana.

  • As Montana continues to emerge as a thriving tech hub, it’s creating abundant opportunities across the state’s diverse tech sector. Our list of 31 Hot Montana Jobs 2025 includes opportunities for Montanans of all backgrounds, with pathways into fields such as robotics, digital forensics, and game design.

  • To identify in-demand roles in Montana, our team at the Montana High Tech Business Alliance pored over workforce data from the U.S. Department of Labor, research studies, and online job listings to create a list of tech jobs projected to grow fast in the next few years. See our list of 31 hot Montana jobs projected for 2023.

  • See our video webinar for tips on how to get a job in IT in 2022.

    Don’t have time to watch a webinar? Read the Q + A Transcript from the webinar for a quick recap.

  • We invite you to take advantage of Microsoft's Skills for Jobs initiative, which offers free access to LinkedIn Learning courses covering a wide range of topics, including AI and soft skills. Enhance your digital skills and empower your team and community with valuable knowledge that aligns with the evolving needs of today's economy.

  • CompTIA’s Career Explorer is a comprehensive resource designed to inform, inspire, and guide individuals toward their next career step in the tech industry and beyond. Explore the entire portfolio of Career Explorer resources at no cost, watch video profiles featuring diverse professionals sharing their non-traditional paths into tech careers, and gain insights into earnings potential, job outlook, employer hiring trends, remote work opportunities, and much more across the U.S. and 250 metro areas.

  • Cyberseek is an interactive tool that supports local employers, educators, guidance and career counselors, students, current workers, policy makers and other stakeholders to learn about the U.S. cybersecurity workforce. To help close the cybersecurity skills gap, Cyberseek provides detailed, actionable data about supply and demand in the cybersecurity job market.

  • Today's information technology (IT) careers offer an incredible array of opportunity, variety, passion, and of course, earnings potential. As you explore IT career path options, use the CompTIA IT Salary Calculator to estimate your salary and know your worth during your job search. The calculator includes salary data from 400 different metro areas, covering 85% of the U.S. population.

  • Reach Higher Montana’s Work-Based Learning Collaborative website features resources for employers to grow their talent pipeline through work-based learning, materials to help educators connect their classroom learning to careers, and links to resources that will help Montana students explore their career interests through on-the-job training.

  • The WBLC Data Dashboard aims to make data on work-based learning in Montana accessible to help improve workforce support, work-based learning, and educational opportunities so that young people are better prepared for employment success and employers gain skilled workers. Updates are made annually.

  • Produced by the Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, the WBL Toolkit for Employers provides employers with resources, tools, and guidance to successfully develop high-quality work-based learning experiences for student workers.

  • The informational interviews handout from the University of Montana College of Business lists five steps for setting up successful informational interviews to learn more about a specific company or industry.

  • Internships serve as crucial stepping stones into the workforce. Check out “Internships 101: Aceing Your Application” for expert tips from Montana High Tech Business Alliance members to confidently apply for your next internship.

  • Read “5 Tips to Set Yourself Up for Success in a Tech Career” to learn tips for launching a career in tech from hiring managers at Blackfoot Communications, Submittable, GL Solutions, onX, Skyfish, Cognizant, NorthWestern Energy, Pathlabs, Snapchat, and Instacart.

  • In “5 Tips from Hiring Managers - How to Land a Montana Tech Job or Internship” local hiring managers from Boeing Helena, Hyundai Motor Group, and Zoot Enterprises share advice to help students stand out when applying for a Montana tech job or internship.

  • See what tips you can use to give you an advantage in pursuing tech jobs or internships in Montana.

  • Learn more about the MSU College of Engineering and Gallatin College. Explore new tech career pathways offered by these institutions to begin your journey into the Montana High Tech industry today.

  • Check out MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series MHTBA’s Great Places for Tech article series to learn more about high-tech opportunities in Montana.

  • Take a look at our Jobs board that we use to post many tech jobs that are in Montana from entry-level to senior-level positions.

  • Explore the job-leveling matrix for SQL, and understand the roles and skills needed to advance from beginner to leader in this article from Coursera.

  • If you can’t find what you’re looking for on our Jobs Board, see this O*NET Career Database for additional information.

  • Interested in more careers outside of Montana or outside the High Tech Industry? Find additional occupational information on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

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Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.

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