Governance, Risk, and Compliance Associate Degree

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IT-Governance, Risk, and Compliance

Program Number: 101514

Your Degree: Associate Degree

Estimated Time to Complete: 61 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years

Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person

Area of Study: Information Technology

Estimated Program Cost: $11,115.32

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Program Overview
Are you ready to help organizations understand how to protect their systems and user data? Madison College’s Governance, Risk, and Compliance associate degree program–one of a few of its kind currently offered in the US–will arm you with the skills and knowledge to resolve various cybersecurity compliance challenges.
In a world where nearly all records are digital, cybersecurity professionals specializing in compliance are in high demand.
Whether you’re looking to start, advance or change your career, this program will give you the training to help you reach your goals. No advanced skills needed—just basic computer knowledge and a passion for learning.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance Careers
Compliance professionals play a critical role in overseeing an organization’s governance, risk and compliance (GRC) efforts. They act as trusted advisors and champions of administrative security measures, often reporting to senior leadership.
Their work is essential across all industries—including finance, healthcare, hospitality, retail, non-profit, energy, emergency services, communications and government— as they ensure that business goals align with regulatory, legal and risk management requirements.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance Program Goals
Through analysis and hands-on experience, you will gain the knowledge required to safeguard organizational assets and navigate the evolving landscape of cybersecurity compliance, policies and standards. You’ll learn to:
Interpret and apply regulatory and legal frameworks
Conduct risk and compliance assessments
Analyze and disseminate data
Develop security standards and policies tailored to organizational needs
What Skills Do I Need?
We’ll teach you the technical skills to detect and resolve cyber compliance issues, but a successful cyber compliance professional is also:
A Critical Thinker
You like puzzles and logic games in which you need to see how all the pieces fit together. You know how to combine past experience, problem solving skills, research and a bit of intuition to find solutions.
Highly Organized
You are the person who knows just where everything is and how to keep a multitude of details straight. You have your own “systems” of organization and are a planner. People rely on you to be the one who pays attention.
A People Person
You’ll be mentoring and acting in an advisory and advocacy position, so ease in communication and empathy are a plus. A generally friendly disposition will make collaborating with various departments easier.
A Good Communicator
All departments of an organization interact with cyber compliance. You’ll need to be able to communicate, verbally and in writing, in both technical and simple terms, where the compliance issues lie and how to fix them.
Curious
The world of technology changes quickly. To stay on top of the latest advancements, be prepared to continue your education beyond the degree through professional advancement, online user groups and industry publications.
If these traits aren’t quite who you are today but you’d like them to be, don’t worry our associate degree programs are designed to build and bolster these skills before graduation.
Real-world, Hands-on Learning
Governance, Risk, and Compliance classes are held in person in Madison College’s state-of-the-art online lab environment to simulate the infrastructures various industries and tech companies actually use. That same lab is available to you 24/7 from any computer. All you need is an internet connection to do your work from anywhere.
Madison College IT program students get hands-on experience on Day One.
Core classes teach technical skills in:
First Year
You’ll begin your journey with learning the basics of IT and the cybersecurity compliance field.
Windows and Linux operating systems
Cybersecurity compliance fundamentals
Data privacy security frameworks and laws
Second Year
You’ll build on your knowledge of IT and compliance fundamentals to learn how to tailor controls to an organization’s needs.
Cybersecurity standards and frameworks
Developing and implementing cybersecurity policy
Cloud computing

Enjoy small class sizes and personal attention from instructors who are experts in their field, committed to helping you build your skills with confidence.
Final Semester Internship
In addition to coursework, you will complete an internship with one of our industry partners. If you are already working full-time, you will have the option of a project. With this real-world opportunity, upon graduation you will have not only the knowledge but also the experience to enter the workforce with the confidence that employers notice.
Flexible Course Offerings
Madison College's IT-Governance, Risk, and Compliance program students can attend full or part time.
Classes are a mix of online and in-person offerings at the Madison Truax campus.
If you start this program in the spring semester, it may take 5 semesters to complete and classes are only offered in the daytime.
Program Courses

Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester
10-107-111
Exploration of Information Technology
Learn about the different careers available in the vast field of Information Technology and examines the IT-Cloud DevOps Specialist, IT-Cyber Compliance Specialist, IT-Cybersecurity Specialist, IT-Data & Analytics Specialist, IT-Desktop Support Technician, IT-GenAI Front-End Developer, IT-Network Systems Administration, and IT-Web Software Developer career paths. Students create an individualized career path plan as the capstone project for the course.
1 credit
10-150-104
Data Communications
This is an introductory course covering the process used to exchange data between end point applications on a network (Like your web browser connecting to a website). Included will be a basic introduction to the concepts of host addressing, data communication channels/flows, and the fundamentals of the applications, tools, and configurations needed to enable and troubleshoot end host connectivity to an existing data network. NOTE prereq: Students are required to have a working knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating system (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, file management).
3 credits
10-151-102
IT Security Awareness
Provides a basic survey of the importance of IT security awareness and data confidentiality. This course walks users through basic aspects of information security in a very broad, easy to understand way and explains the value of securing data. The course will also present best practices in access control and password policies. NOTE: Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, file management) required.
1 credit
10-151-107
Cybersecurity Compliance Fundamentals
Introduction to the principles and practices of cyber compliance. Topics include analyzing cyber requirements, risk assessment and management strategies, and how to positively contribute to improved cyber compliance landscapes. Students will develop communication skills to effectively articulate complex cyber compliance concepts to different audiences.
3 credits
10-154-184
Enterprise Client
Learn how to install, configure, and administer a desktop operating system for an enterprise office environment. Topics include Windows installation, device configuration, establishing network connectivity, Windows user profiles, configuring appropriate NTFS and share permissions, remote connections, and an introduction to commands using Windows PowerShell and Command Prompt. NOTE prereq: Students are required to have a working knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating system (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, file management).
3 credits
10-156-105
AI Fundamentals
Provides a basic survey of the importance of AI in the IT industry. This course will discuss broad aspects of AI including types, code generation, and how to validate the results from AI. The course will also present best practices for appropriate and responsible use of AI.
1 credit
10-801-195
Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
3 credits
Second Semester
10-151-113
Data Privacy
Explores the technical, legal, and ethical dimensions of data protection. Key topics include privacy laws and regulations, data governance frameworks, and technical privacy-enhancing techniques. Emphasis is placed on strategies for safeguarding sensitive information and mitigating privacy risks in organizational settings.
3 credits
10-154-171
Windows Server
This hands-on course, based on Windows Server operating systems, allows students to gain administrative knowledge of deploying, configuring, and managing Windows Server. Additionally, students will learn how to implement Windows Server technologies, including but not limited to Active Directory, Account Management, Domain Controllers, Hyper-V, WDS, DNS, DHCP, IIS, Group Policy, File and Print Services, Storage Services, Remote Desktop and Management, PowerShell Management.
3 credits
10-154-190
Linux 1
Introduces Linux with a focus on command line system administration skills. Topics include navigating the filesystem, file and directory management, command execution, input/output redirection and pipes, account management, configuring network services, file system security and troubleshooting.
3 credits
10-801-196
Oral/Interpersonal Communication
Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
3 credits
Complete one of the following: (Review Degree Progress Report for any additional options.)
10-809-103
Think Critically & Creatively
Provides instruction about critical and creative thinking that is in high demand in all occupations. Models, theories, and processes provide the foundation for learning logical thinking strategies. Students will apply a systematic approach to problem solving by analyzing the problem, assessing possible solutions, and making effective decisions. In addition, students will generate ideas and analyze complex issues. This course assists students with developing a critical thinking mindset which is essential at every level of personal and professional life.
3 credits
10-809-166
Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application
This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and/or professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.
3 credits
Third Semester
10-107-175
Job Search Preparation
Introduction to planning and organizing a search for careers in information technology. Activities include the development of a personalized job search plan, resume building, creating a social media presence and a mock interview.
1 credit
10-151-114
Linux 2
This class provides a hands-on look at the tools and techniques needed to understand the fundamental security issues involving the linux operating system. You will create shell scripts intended to solve basic security scenarios. In addition, you will learn to set up and secure some of the more common network services usually implemented on Linux. Tools include: Bash, netcat, BIND, sshd, NTP, firewalld, nano.
3 credits
10-151-132
Cybersecurity Standards and Frameworks
Delves into the diverse landscape of cybersecurity standards and frameworks. Study industry focused and internationally recognized standards such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO/IEC 27001, CIS Critical Security Controls, and PCI DSS. Through case studies and practical exercises, learn to apply these frameworks to enhance organizational cybersecurity posture and align with industry best practices.
3 credits
10-152-109
Python Scripting
This is an introductory course focused on scripting in the Python programming language. Students will learn the fundamentals of creating Python scripts and using the Python language to automate the administration of IT systems. No prior programming or scripting experience is necessary to enroll in this course.
3 credits
10-804-144
Math of Finance
This course takes an algebraic approach to solving financial problems. Topics include personal finance and retirement, mathematics of retailing, mathematics of banking and lending, and statistical applications. Major emphasis is placed on solving problems involving the time value of money by using a financial calculator. The material in this course develops a sound base for subsequent courses by using an analytical approach to problem solving.
3 credits
Elective
3 credits
Fourth Semester
10-151-146
Cyber Policy
This course examines the development and implementation of cyber policies within organizations and governments. Topics include policy formulation, governance structures, emergency response planning, and organizational policy awareness. Students gain insights into the strategic role of policies in managing cyber risks and fostering a culture of security across different sectors.
3 credits
10-151-195
Cyber Compliance Internship
An on-the-job experience in Madison area companies that develop, maintain, and manage cybersecurity compliance requirements. Students will seek job or internship opportunities and interview to be selected. The student spends approximately 216 hours over the course of the semester at the work site. By consent of instructor, a special project may be substituted for the internship.
3 credits
10-157-101
Introduction to Cloud Computing
Introduces students to cloud based computing architectures through hands-on labs with leading public cloud providers. Students will learn the basics of deploying cloud solutions and what makes cloud-based infrastructure unique. The fundamentals of cloud storage, security, account management, networking and monitoring are covered.
3 credits
10-809-199
Psychology Of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
3 credits
Elective
3 credits
Recommended Electives
Electives must be associate degree (10-level) or college transfer (20-level) courses.
10-151-137
Incident Response
Provides an overview of the tools and techniques commonly used for detecting threats to an enterprise infrastructure. Implement strategies for documenting and reporting detected events based on industry standard compliance frameworks. We will use the Security Onion distribution. Tools include Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana (ELK), Suricata, Zeek, Wireshark, and TCP Dump.
3 credits
10-151-164
Penetration Testing
This course provides a broad overview of the tools and techniques commonly used for penetration testing. In depth hands-on exercises are used to instruct the student in the proper selection and application of a given tool for the intended task. Also included are basic strategies for documenting and reporting on the outcome of the test. The student must demonstrate the ability to plan, and execute a basic network security audit in an environment that simulates a common business or organization. Open Source tools include: NMap, Metasploit, Medusa, etc…
3 credits
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Secure Your Spot!
This program has a limited number of seats available. We encourage early applications to secure your spot, but the program has not historically reached full capacity.
Application Dates
Fall 2026
Application open
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026
Spring 2027
Application open
Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
Application available on October 15, 2026
Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
GED/HSED completion
College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Career Outcomes
Governance, Risk, and Compliance Associate Degree Outcomes
Upon completion of the Governance, Risk, and Compliance Specialist program, you will be able to:
Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of cyber compliance requirements, risk assessments and best practices.
Evaluate existing and emerging data protection regulations, strategies for safeguarding sensitive information, ethical considerations and privacy risks in organizational settings.
Utilize cybersecurity standards and frameworks (CIS, NIST, ISO/IEC) to enhance organizational security posture.
Evaluate the development and implementation of cybersecurity policies within organizations across different sectors.
Create effective cybersecurity policies and strategies to mitigate risks and ensure regulatory compliance.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance Careers
Governance, Risk, and Compliance associate degree graduates are prepared for cyber governance, risk and regulatory compliance jobs in a wide variety of industries, locally, nationally and around the world.
You’ll be ready for a range of professional positions in the field of cybersecurity including roles in:
Audit
Compliance
Security Awareness Training
Risk Management
Policy Development
Advisory Positions