UNCP now offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Cybersecurity. Course requirements include a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science in addition to a robust cybersecurity curriculum. Course lectures combined with hands-on labs, real-world case studies, and undergraduate research prepare students for information security jobs across a variety of government, private, and non-profit sectors.
A B.S. in Cybersecurity is an investment in your future. Globally, the cybersecurity workforce needs to grow by 145% to keep up with demand. In North Carolina, the demand for applicants in positions such as Information Security Analysts outpaces the trained workforce by 32%. Whether you want to be a Software Developer, Network Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist, or Cybercrime Analyst, a B.S. in Cybersecurity will give you the necessary knowledge and skillset to accomplish your goals.
Program-Level Learning Outcomes
- Analyze a complex real-world problem and apply principles of mathematics, computing, cybersecurity, and other relevant disciplines to identify secure computing solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing and cybersecurity requirements to meet the needs of the community.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing and cybersecurity practices based on legal and ethical principles.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts. Contribute to the greater good of their communities through professional involvement and service.
- Apply mathematical and computer science theory and secure software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions.
- Understand cryptographic techniques for cybersecurity and be able to implement and utilize various such techniques and tools in order to defense cyber operations.
- Analyze and resolve security issues in networks and computer systems to secure an IT infrastructure.
- Analyze a complex real-world problem and apply principles of mathematics, computing, cybersecurity, and other relevant disciplines to identify secure computing solutions.
Major Specific Courses
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Network Security
- AI in Cybersecurity
- Secure Software Development
- Cloud Security
- Web Security
- Database Security
- Applied Cryptography
- Digital Forensics
- Risk Management
- Laws, Ethics and Compliance in Cybersecurity
The B.S. in Cybersecurity Enhances Skills in the Following Areas
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
- Information Security
- Information Assurance
- Cryptography
- Authentication
- Network Security
- Security Operations
- Risk Assessment and Management
- Threat Analysis
- Internal Auditing
Cybersecurity Career Pathways
- Networking
- Software Development
- Systems Engineering
- Financial and Risk Analysis
- Security Intelligence
- Information Technology
Cybersecurity Top 12 Work Roles
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Cybersecurity Manager
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Software Developer
- Systems Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Penetration & Vulnerability Tester
- Systems Administrator
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Incident & Intrusion Analyst
- Cybercrime Analyst
- IT Auditor
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I complete BS in Cybersecurity online?
The BS in Cybersecurity is NOT a fully online degree program. A significant number of courses (depending on the offerings on a semester basis) must be completed in classroom and/or laboratory.
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Can I transfer hours into this major?
Please contact UNCP's Registrar Office (registrar@uncp.edu) with questions regarding transfer of credits. Also, you may contact the Computer Science Department Chair, Dr. Selvarajah Mohanarajah, preferably by sending the transfer course syllabus.
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What specs should my computer meet?
Window-OS machine is much preferred by most of the students since it is much more convenient to install and run several open-source software.
- 64-bit operating system
- Windows 10+ is preferred
- Intel or AMD CPU; 1.5 GHz or more CPU
- 8 GB (minimum) of RAM; 16 GB (recommended) or more
- 240 GB (minimum) SSD storage; 512GB or more (recommended)
If you are planning to buy a Mac, then proceed with the following specs and requirements:
- CPU: i7 or better, or equivalent M1 processor
- 8 GB (minimum) of RAM; 16 GB (recommended) or more
- Storage: 512GB or larger solid-state
Netbook, ipad, or tablet are not recommended.
Helpful Resources
- Link to calculate tuition costs: https://www.uncp.edu/admissions/costs-and-financial-aid/financial-aid/cost-attending
- Office of Admissions: https://www.uncp.edu/admissions
- Affiliated faculty: https://www.uncp.edu/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/computer-science/faculty-research-contact-information
- Cyber Defense Education Center: https://www.uncp.edu/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/uncp-cyber-defense-education-center
- Student Engagement Club (ACM Student Chapter): https://www.uncp.edu/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/students-action/acm-club
- Student Outreach & Military Engagement: https://www.uncp.edu/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/uncp-cyber-defense-education-center/outreach-engagement
- Student Support/Opportunities: https://www.uncp.edu/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/uncp-cyber-defense-education-center/newsroom
- Office of Global Engagement: https://www.uncp.edu/departments/global-engagement/get-involved
Dr. Prashanth BusiReddyGari, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Computer Science