Dec
20

Best 5 Universities with strong cybersecurity programs

The age of internet technologies, especially the development of cloud services and IoT devices, dramatically expanded the playfield for cyber-attackers, creating gateways for malicious software and diverse system exploit methods. Because businesses are moving online, there is a high demand for network security specialists to keep operations stable and safe from any cybersecurity threats.

If you’re planning a career in cybersecurity, college choice can significantly influence your success. Some Universities take pride in their teaching staff; others boast of the latest equipment or partnership programs that allow easier employment once you get your degree. Without direct insight, it’s not easy to determine which college is the most appropriate for your needs. Therefore, we have created a list of five Universities with the best cybersecurity programs in the world.

University Of Maryland-College Park

Another institution that prides on its advanced curriculum, a multitude of research and innovation projects, and successful alumni like Google’s co-founder Sergey Brin. In terms of cybersecurity, here, you can fill your mind with knowledge of the fundamental principles of network security and cryptology or get to know the field of cybersecurity at its core. Both paths take you to a Bachelor’s degree with the ability to craft a Masters’s and PhD course according to your preferences and aspirations.

For those of you who don’t have the time, funds, or ambition to pursue a full degree, there is a 4-course Certificate program that builds you up for cybersecurity quality assurance, telehealth software development, digital forensics, and other fields of study that place applicable cybersecurity tools in your hands.

With research projects that include a partnership with the Homeland Security Department, National Security Agency, and many private contractors, you get a chance to work on valuable projects and acquire priceless experience in the industry.

Rochester Institute of Technology

According to first-hand information from Ben Smith, cybersecurity research writer for essay service, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) has one of the most innovative research and development centres in the US. For this reason, the National Security Agency sponsors RIT as part of its National Centers of Academic Excellence initiative. The goal of this NSA program is to help Universities grow a new generation of professionals that will implement and develop the latest solutions in the field of internet security.

Among several related courses within the University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences, the 30-credit Master of Science in Computing Security is beyond argument the most demanding and the most attractive program students can take. It relies on strong math skills and experimental curriculums based on research. It intends to grow experts who can face upcoming challenges and conduct research that leads to new values in the industry.

Because the University holds partnerships with numerous private and government entities, students get a chance for paid work within the Eaton Cybersecurity SAFE Lab. College attendants solve real-life problems that concern RIT’s partner companies by applying the knowledge gained through the coursework. 

Texas A&M University-College Station

This 19th-century academic institution started its Cybersecurity Center in 2015, and it’s been growing rapidly since its inception. The college offers two programs; each focused on providing applicable knowledge and practical experience. The Cybersecurity Center falls under the jurisdiction of the College of Engineering, ranked 14th undergrad program in the US.

Developed for students majoring in arts or science, Cybersecurity Minor undergraduate degree allows students without substantial computer knowledge to understand and harness the fundamental principles of cybersecurity. On the other hand, a Master of Engineering in Engineering with a Specialization in Cybersecurity degree provides a deeper knowledge and specialisation in distinct fields of cybersecurity.

Apart from various research projects for the NSA and other private and government-funded operations, Texas A&M University students have a chance for a paid internship in the exclusive US and foreign companies.

Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech College of Engineering is an exemplary academic institution offering its students multidisciplinary cybersecurity learning programs. Currently, this University is offering full tuition to students interested in Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in cybersecurity. The scholarship includes $25 thousand for BS and $34.000 per year for those who pursue a Master’s degree. 

Engineering Minor in Cybersecurity is a degree that allows students to grasp the information, network, and computer system security essentials. Students who undergo this program have a chance to develop and maintain telecommunication networks, cryptography, or web software engineering.

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering is a more in-depth program that relies on practical knowledge adoption through interdisciplinary lab work and participation in diverse government and private projects. Furthermore, acquiring a BS in Computer Engineering at Virginia Tech creates a gateway for lucrative job opportunities in numerous government agencies and powerful private entities. 

The University plans to start Cybersecurity Management and Policy modules in the future and thus extend its offer of knowledge and skills.

Conclusion

As we can see based on the Universities listed in this article, cybersecurity is not only a tempting career opportunity but also a matter of national concern. Government agencies like NSA and DoD invest massive funds in university research centers that focus their attention on cybersecurity and draw talents from that pool without exception. Due to market demands, the private sector is also highly interested in fresh blood with in-depth knowledge of network and internet application security. 

It stands to reason that tuitions for these prestigious institutions are relatively high for the average citizen. However, there are numerous scholarship opportunities one could go for if the family college fund is too slim.