National University now offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees with a specialty in cybersecurity, supporting a nationwide demand for more cybersecurity professionals.
San Diego, Calif. – To address the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, National University’s School of Engineering and Computing is expanding its cybersecurity degree offerings by launching a Bachelor of Science Degree Program in Cybersecurity (BSCYB). The program builds on the successes of National University’s cybersecurity-focused graduate degree by offering even more opportunities for students to specialize at the undergraduate level. The University, which is among the largest private nonprofit universities in California, will begin offering the bachelor’s program online this April, with courses expanding to the Kearny Mesa, San Diego campus in October.
The bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity focuses on fundamental security skills, basic information technology management concepts and ethical issues associated with cybersecurity. In addition, the program offers concentrations in computer network defense or digital forensics. With an estimated 200,000 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in the United States and over 1 million globally, according to studies by Intel Security and Cisco, the need for a well-trained security workforce has never been greater.
“National University is at the forefront of improving cyber vigilance in terms of educating future cybersecurity professionals, ” said Dr. John Cicero, dean of the School of Engineering and Computing. “Furthermore, this new program helps fulfill National University’s mission as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by growing the workforce for the government and commercial sectors. “
National University is one of just six designated centers in California and the first and only in San Diego to be recognized by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense. The prestigious designation recognizes quality academic programs that prepare professionals to reduce cyber vulnerabilities in the nation’s networks. The BSCYB has been designed to meet National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security Center of Academic Excellence Standards to ensure National University graduates are prepared to enter the workforce in this field.
The University already offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity program both online and on campus, which has been ranked among the Top 25 in the country by TheBestSchools.org. The faculty, most of whom have extensive experience working in government and industry, have developed the bachelor’s program to provide students the opportunity to complete hands-on labs and research projects using open source cybersecurity tools used by the industry. In addition, classes are offered in a “one course per month ” format, which is consistent with almost all programs offered at National University. The program, which is designed for anyone interested in a cybersecurity career, teaches practical skills to get started. As such, students with various backgrounds, not only technical, are entering the program, and the University is seeing great interest among military students in particular.
“National University’s accelerated format is ideal for active military, as well as military Veterans already in the civilian workforce, ” said Chris Simpson, director of the National University Center for Cybersecurity and Academic Program. “Additionally, this field is a great career choice for people who want to make a positive difference in our society by protecting our nation’s infrastructure, which is so important. “
Since its founding in 1971, National University has had a long tradition of meeting the needs of adult learners and members of the military. In fact, currently, about 25 percent of the University’s total student population has a military service background. Some students bring technical experience from their military background, but the cybersecurity programs at National University provide unique opportunities for students to engage with local businesses and nonprofits to participate in internships and evaluate cybersecurity vulnerabilities. This allows students to give back to the community while gaining valuable experience to take into the field after graduation.
For more information on enrolling in National University’s cybersecurity program, visit the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity page.
ABOUT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY SYSTEM
National University System was established to meet the emerging challenges and demands of education in the 21st century. The System is uniquely aligned to connect a diverse population of students to a network of innovative educational programs that are relevant to their lives, careers, and the marketplace, and are delivered in a format that respects competing life priorities. The affiliates of the System include National University, John F. Kennedy University, City University of Seattle, Northcentral University, and the Division of Pre-College Programs. System initiatives also include Workforce Education Solutions and the national Sanford Programs: Sanford Harmony and Sanford Inspire, which provide educators with comprehensive lesson plans and activities to support Pre-K-12 student development and success, and the Sanford Institute of Philanthropy, which offers educational and training programs for frontline nonprofit fundraisers.