Free University Short Courses

IT Masters Pen Testing

 

This 4-week free short course will help you gain an in-depth understanding of the security posture of your IT environment, a penetration test highlights those areas that need fixing and which areas can withstand a concerted hacking attempt. A well-written report detailing the findings of a penetration test can be invaluable to an organisation looking to protect themselves from cyber risks.

A multi-format exam will allow you to practice penetration testing skills in a controlled environment. Discover flags by hacking the practical exercise for points in the final exam. This short course is a cut-down version of the type of course you would take in a MBA (Computing – with specialisations) from Charles Sturt University.

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Course Information

 

Who will present the webinars?

This course was developed by Jeremy Koster. Jeremy has over 20 years of experience in IT with 15 years specialising in Cyber Security within large enterprises. Jeremy has a range of security qualifications including GIAC Penetration Testing (GPEN), CISM, CISSP, PCIP, GCIH, CEH and CHFI and completed his Masters of Information System Security with Charles Sturt University (CSU) in 2006. He is a CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer and has been an industry based, part-time lecturer with CSU since 2011.

This course includes a practical element during which you can earn ‘flags’ that will assist with the final exam.

 

How will the ‘capture the flag’ challenge work?

The capture the flag challenge is based on freely available resources which will be part of the final exam. You will be required to identify a number of flags hidden inside a vulnerable system. This includes challenges such as web application vulnerability exploitation and password cracking. While flags will be unique to this exam and you will be provided with a vulnerable virtual box image the week before the exam to give enough time to obtain the flags. Links to online guides on how to complete the capture the flag exercise will be provided.

 

What is the aim of this short course?

The aim of the short course is to give you a ‘taster’ of what it is like to undertake postgraduate study via online learning with Charles Sturt University. The short course is a shorter version of a full-length subject that you will study to obtain a Master of Cyber Security from Charles Sturt University.

 

Is there a final exam?

Yes — the short course exam will be a timed, open book exam that you will sit at your computer.

 

Will I get the opportunity to apply what I have learnt during the course?

Yes — there is a practical element that requires students to break into a known vulnerable system within a safe environment. This will allow the students to put the techniques discussed in the webinars to practice in their own lab.

 

Do I get a completion certificate if I complete the course?

Yes — provided you receive a pass mark (50% or over) for course assessment, which comprises the exam and any available participation marks.

The certificate reflects the grade you receive, which mirrors those you would receive in a full-length subject; 50 and over is a pass, 65 and over is a credit, 75 and over is a distinction, and 85 and over is a high distinction.

 

Will the course qualify me for university credit?

Yes — successful completion of three or more of our short courses will qualify you for one credit for an industry elective subject in our postgraduate courses. Click here for further details.

 

Will I need to purchase any study materials to complete the course?

No — all essential materials will be supplied.

 

Will the webinars be recorded?

Yes — all webinars are recorded and you will be able to access them, and all other free course materials, by registering for the course.