USD Cybersecurity Degree Program Receives National Award

USD receives a second designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

The University of San Diego (USD) was recently announced as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity for its MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership graduate degree program.

Colleges and universities that receive this designation have met rigorous requirements and are formally recognized as a Center of Excellence (CAE) by the federal government for a robust curriculum that is aligned with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework. Each CAE-designated program equips students with the necessary skills, knowledge and tools to succeed in cybersecurity. 

With this recent honor accorded to the Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership degree program (offered 100% online), USD has now received the CAE designation for every cybersecurity graduate degree offered. USD is one of 300 higher education institutions across the United States with CAE designations. 

“Being recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity is a testament to the strength and impact of our MS in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership program," said Academic Director Michelle Moore. "This designation highlights our dedication to delivering an education that not only meets national standards but also empowers our students to lead and innovate in the fast-paced world of cybersecurity."

In addition to important, in-demand cybersecurity skills, students learn state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to defeat adversaries from both theoretical and tactical perspectives. The Master of Science in Cyber Security Operations and Leadership helps students develop the ability to lead organizations in cybersecurity operations and effectively communicate mission-critical cybersecurity needs and priorities. 

With two programs now granted with the CAE designation, USD will continue to have the ability to provide insight into cyber-related programs at federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Security Agency (NSA). Students at USD will have access to federal scholarships and grants and participate in a growing network of cybersecurity professionals and educators. 

NSA created the Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education program in 1999, later expanding it to include cybersecurity. DHS became a co-sponsor in 2004, and three different CAE-C designations are now available: cyber defense, cyber research and cyber operations. 

“The Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation indicates that your institution is helping to reduce threats to our national infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense, as well as providing the nation with a pipeline of qualified cybersecurity professionals,” according to CAE. 

— USD News Center