Cybersecurity (In-Seat)
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duration
4 Years
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format
In-Seat
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Location
Charleston
Program Overview
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields worldwide, with demand for skilled professionals at an all-time high. UC’s Cybersecurity major, part of the Applied Computer Science program, prepares students to design and implement effective solutions that protect individuals, businesses, and organizations from evolving cyber threats.
Students in the Cybersecurity major gain hands-on experience protecting digital systems through risk assessment, vulnerability testing, incident response, and security tools. The program is offered on the Charleston campus with flexible online coursework and provides opportunities to pair Cybersecurity with other majors like IT, Video Game Development, Technology Applications, or Data Science.
Note: Students will receive an Applied Computer Science degree with their chosen major. Please see Full Program Details for information about each major.
Freshman applicants with a 2.5 or higher high school GPA and transfer students with a 2.0 or higher cumulative college GPA meet our general admissions requirements but must complete the program-specific requirements for admission into the program.
Program Specific Requirements
- Students must have a 27 ACT math score, or they must have completed MATH 123 before they are able to enroll in MATH 201
- In order to graduate, a student must receive a minimum grade of “C” for each of the program courses
- Students may be required to complete some courses in online or hybrid formats
- Applied Computer Science majors must meet all University of Charleston graduation requirements and successfully complete the Applied Computer Science Capstone
STEM Optional Practical Training programs are recognized by the U.S. government as beneficial to students and employers. Through these programs, international students gain essential, in-demand skills, and can extend their 12 month OPT an additional 24 months.
Program Highlights
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Learn industry best practices in cybersecurity using cutting-edge tools and technologies.
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Gain expertise in risk assessments, vulnerability testing, and incident response planning.
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Apply proactive strategies to prevent, detect, and remediate cyber threats.
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Broaden opportunities by pairing cybersecurity with a double major in IT, VGD, Tech Applications, or Data Science.
Program Outcomes
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Learn to detect and assess cybersecurity threats. Apply this knowledge to protect organizations from data breaches and cyberattacks.
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Gain skills in vulnerability testing and remediation. Use these abilities to strengthen systems and reduce risk in government, healthcare, or business environments.
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Develop expertise in incident response planning. Apply these skills to lead organizations through cyber crises and safeguard critical information.
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Master firewalls, intrusion detection, and encryption tools. Leverage these technologies to create secure environments for individuals and organizations.
Additional Information
What will I learn in UC’s Cybersecurity major?
Students gain a strong foundation in computer science while learning to detect, assess, and remediate cybersecurity threats. You’ll study risk assessments, vulnerability testing, incident response planning, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption.
How does this program prepare me for a career in cybersecurity?
The program emphasizes hands-on learning. You’ll apply classroom knowledge through labs and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, preparing you to secure networks, respond to cyber incidents, and design systems that reduce the risk of attack.
What careers can I pursue with a degree in cybersecurity?
Graduates are prepared for high-demand roles such as Security Analyst, Network Security Specialist, Cybersecurity Consultant, Ethical Hacker, or Information Security Officer. Careers span industries including government, healthcare, finance, and private business.
Is the Cybersecurity major an in-seat program?
Yes. The Cybersecurity major is offered as an in-seat program on UC’s Charleston campus, providing students with a full undergraduate campus experience. Coursework combines core computer science with specialized online cybersecurity classes.
Can I combine Cybersecurity with another field of study?
Yes. Many students expand their opportunities by double majoring in areas such as Information Technology, Video Game Development, Technology Applications, or Data Science.
What skills will I graduate with?
You will leave UC with the ability to detect and analyze threats, secure networks and systems, conduct vulnerability testing, plan and execute incident response strategies, and apply industry best practices to protect sensitive information.
How long does it take to complete the Cybersecurity degree?
The Cybersecurity major is a four-year Bachelor of Science degree program, completed on the Charleston campus as part of the Applied Computer Science program.
Meet the Faculty
Meet the Faculty
Applied Computer Science and Data Science Program Director
Assistant Professor of Data Science