This course offers an in-depth exploration of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), preparing students for the CGRC certification. Through a detailed examination of risk management frameworks, information security, and system authorization, students will build a strong foundation in managing organizational risks within a governance framework. The curriculum emphasizes the principles of risk identification, security controls, and continuous monitoring—core competencies essential for those pursuing a career in cybersecurity and risk management. While the course is theoretical in nature, focusing on conceptual understanding, it provides ample context for applying these ideas to real-world risk management and governance challenges.

The course begins by introducing students to the CGRC certification process, outlining its structure, and highlighting key areas of focus, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Risk Management Framework (RMF). Understanding the importance of governance, risk, and compliance is fundamental to the cybersecurity landscape, and this course thoroughly explores how these elements interact to enhance organizational resilience. Students will also gain insight into the importance of system categorization in managing information risks, applying frameworks such as the NIST RMF to ensure proper security measures are in place.

Throughout the course, students will be guided through various risk management frameworks and standards, learning how to identify, analyze, and mitigate risks in information systems. These lessons emphasize the practical application of theoretical frameworks, ensuring students comprehend how risk identification and mitigation play a vital role in an organization's overall security posture. The course will also cover continuous risk monitoring, a key element in staying ahead of cybersecurity threats and ensuring compliance with relevant governance frameworks. Continuous monitoring strategies will be discussed in detail, equipping students with the tools to create proactive risk management systems.

The selection and implementation of security controls are crucial in maintaining an organization's security infrastructure. Students will learn about security control families as outlined in NIST SP 800-53, and the process of tailoring these controls to align with specific system categories. This section provides an opportunity to understand how security measures are selected based on organizational risk profiles and how to document and maintain these controls for long-term compliance and effectiveness. The curriculum will also delve into implementing both technical and administrative controls, testing their efficacy, and integrating them into the system development lifecycle (SDLC).

Security assessments are an integral part of the risk management process, and students will be introduced to various methods and tools for assessing security controls. The course will provide insight into the principles of security control assessment and prepare students for security evaluations and audits. Reporting on the results of these assessments is equally important, and the course will cover best practices for communicating these findings to stakeholders and executives.

Additionally, the course addresses the legal and regulatory compliance aspects of cybersecurity, examining key laws, regulations, and international standards that govern data security and privacy. Students will learn how to navigate complex compliance landscapes and ensure that their organizations meet federal, state, and international cybersecurity requirements. By understanding these regulations, students will be able to implement compliance controls effectively, further strengthening the security posture of their organizations.

Overall, this course offers a robust foundation for students aiming to master the theoretical underpinnings of GRC and cybersecurity. Through a detailed exploration of risk management strategies, security control implementation, and regulatory compliance, students will be well-prepared to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity frameworks. The course emphasizes the strategic importance of governance and risk management, preparing students for both certification and practical application in the field.