# Security Specialist Course (Self-Paced)

Canonical URL: <https://www.graduateschool.edu/courses/security-specialist-course-self-paced>

## Overview

This comprehensive course is primarily designed for the individual who has been assigned security responsibilities and has little or no experience in the security field. A supervisor/manager responsible for the supervision of Security Specialists, but who is not a seasoned security professional, may also benefit. Additionally, a newly appointed contractor Facility Security Officer (FSO) will find this course valuable.

Included in this course are a combination of instructor briefings, video presentations, group discussions, and practical exercises. Course content includes instruction on addressing the personnel security program, to include the application of the national security adjudicative guidelines, and other aspects of the program; insider threats; planning and addressing physical security; information security; conducting briefings, including travel for the clearance holder, initial and termination briefings, and others; cybersecurity; and more.

Upon completion, the Security Specialist will be more informed and prepared to execute their security responsibilities as dictated by national regulations. The course will prepare the attendee to be familiar with the duties of the modern Security Specialist.

## What you'll learn

- Understand the core responsibilities of a Security Specialist, even without prior experience in the field
- Apply national security adjudicative guidelines and address key personnel security requirements
- Recognize and respond to insider threats and implement proactive security measures
- Plan and evaluate physical security and information security procedures
- Conduct effective security briefings, including travel, initial, and termination sessions
- Gain foundational knowledge of cybersecurity protocols relevant to federal security roles

## Curriculum

#### Module 1: Introduction to Physical Security

- Understanding the first layers of defense in protecting personnel, assets, and classified information.
- Overview of physical and personnel security, including the role of HR, senior management, and security staff in the program.
- Examining the supervisors' role in identifying threats and ensuring adherence to security measures.

#### Module 2: Physical Security Site Planning

- Creating a physical security site plan to safeguard personnel and assets against threats such as espionage, terrorism, and theft.
- Exploring various security measures such as video monitoring, intrusion detection, and access control to enhance protection.
- Planning security with crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) strategies and effective site assessments.

#### Module 3: A Common-sense Approach to Physical Security

- Implementing risk management strategies to prioritize vulnerabilities and mitigate potential threats effectively.
- Assessing threats such as tailgating, hackers, and unauthorized access, and implementing appropriate countermeasures.
- Training employees to recognize and respond to security threats, including safeguarding sensitive data and information.

#### Module 4: Other Physical Threats

- Understanding and preparing for bomb threats, workplace violence, and other physical threats to the security of personnel and facilities.
- Developing and executing a bomb incident plan, including evacuation, search, and disposal procedures.
- Identifying critical incident response teams (CIRT) and ensuring proper response to potential threats.

#### Module 5: The Cyber Threat and the Criminal/Terrorism Connection

- Understanding the intersection between cybersecurity threats and physical security, including the rise of cyber espionage and terrorism.
- Exploring the threats posed by cybercriminals, including social engineering tactics like phishing, and the importance of cybersecurity in physical security.
- Educating employees about risks related to mobile device security, password protection, and social media deception.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $1649