University of Charleston

University of Charleston

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Applied Computer Science – Cybersecurity

  • duration

    4 Years

  • format

    In-Seat

  • location

    Charleston

Program Overview

This program enables you to earn a bachelor’s degree in applied computer science while developing the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in a number of fields within information security. The curriculum emphasizes the practical application of the tools and techniques that cybersecurity professionals and network administrators utilize to identify security risks and devise solutions.

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Students must gain general admission to the University of Charleston. A visit to campus to meet with Admissions personnel and program faculty is strongly encouraged.

Program Highlights

  • The program features an emphasis on both technical skills and practical management tools enhancing graduates’ versatility and employment prospects of employment in the private sector, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

  • The curriculum enables students to earn industry-certified security certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacking, Incident Handling, Security Analysis, Advanced Security Trends, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional.

  • The program includes practical lab work and specialized cybersecurity certification courses.

Program Outcomes

  • Projected Job Growth

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst jobs are expected to increase by 37% through 2022, which is much faster than the national average for all occupations.

  • Potential Job Opportunities

    • Information Security Analyst
    • Information Systems Security Engineer
    • Instruction Detection System (IDS) Administrator
    • Engineer or Technician
    • Network Administrator
    • Computer Crime Investigator
    • Cyber Trainer
    • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Additional Information

What are some common courses I can expect to take when earning a degree in applied computer science in cybersecurity?

This program features a combination of hands-on lab work and cybersecurity certification level courses including (but not limited to), Intro to Computers, Intro to Networking, Intro to Security, Cybersecurity Strategy, and Ethical Hacking and Countermeasures.

What is the difference between computer science and cyber security?

Computer Science is the study of how computers work, and how to use them to develop and maintain software. Cyber Security is the practice of creating and implementing strategies to protect computers and their networks from malicious attacks.

What career opportunities are available with a bachelor’s degree in cyber security and computer science?

With a bachelor’s degree in computer science and cyber security, students can explore a variety of different career paths such as Information Security Analyst, Information Systems Security Engineer, Instruction Detection System (IDS) Administrator, Engineer or Technician, Network Administrator, Computer Crime Investigator, Cyber Trainer, and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Can earning this degree assist in obtaining industry certifications?

Our curriculum enables students to earn industry-certified security certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacking, Incident Handling, Security Analysis, Advanced Security Trends, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional.

What degree options are available to advance in the cybersecurity program at Charleston University?

The University of Charelston also offers a Master of Science in Cybersecurity for students who would like to continue their studies after completing their undergraduate degree.

Will I need to purchase any software or hardware for the cybersecurity program?

Yes, potential students may need to purchase software or hardware. More information will be provided upon acceptance into the program.

What is required to apply to the Applied Computer Science – Cybersecurity program?

In order to apply to the program, freshman applicants must have a minimum 2.5 cumulative high school GPA. Transfer students must have a minimum 2.0 cumulative college GPA. Math course placement will be based on math course completion and GPA.

Meet the Faculty

 

Meet the Faculty

 

UC Faculty Staff
Adam Beatty, DEL, MAED, BSOL

Associate Professor and Undergraduate Program Director of Cybersecurity