Cape Fear Community College is offering a new program in the cybercrime security field, according to a news release.

The college announced Monday the launch of its Cyber Crime Technology Associate in Applied Science. The degree program is beginning in the fall semester.

Greg Vandergriff, an information technology instructor, said Monday that the program rose from a growing need for trained individuals in cybercrime security in the state.

“Cybercrime damages are expected to reach $6 trillion annually by 2021, according to the 2019 ACR from Cybersecurity Ventures,” Vandergriff said in the release. “As these numbers continue to rise, it is imperative that we start training a workforce capable of combatting this exponentially-growing dollar amount.”

Graduates of the program could qualify to become computer crime investigators for local or state criminal justice agencies, competent to serve as computer security specialists or consultants with private businesses, officials said in the release.

Some of the jobs in this field include working with police departments, legal councils and cybercrime divisions with federal agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Secret Service, he said.

“There are a lot of high-paying jobs in government … and they are spending more money on this,” Vandergriff said.

A computer forensic agent for the state could make $56,000 a year and up to $100,000 a year based on experience, he said.

The two-year degree requires 65 credit hours. Courses will prepare students to enter in the field of computer crime investigations and private security, according to the release.

“It will train individuals to investigate computer crimes, properly seize and recover computer evidence and aid in the prosecution of cybercriminals,” stated the release.

Response for the program has been well received. Five students have enrolled with classes opening up last Friday.
 
“I have a feeling it is going to be a pretty popular program,” Vandergriff said.