New Cybersecurity program launching at Lake Superior State University

Lake Superior State University has announced one of its newest program offerings: the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program. The program will focus on giving students opportunities for hands-on learning in three main areas under the cybersecurity umbrella: computer networking, computer science, and criminal justice.

According to an article on Lake Superior State University’s website, professor Herb Henderson, Chair of the School of Criminal Justice, Fire Science, and EMS, was quoted as saying of the creation of the program, “In shaping this curriculum, we did extensive research of cybersecurity programs across the state of Michigan. We identified programs that amalgamated computer science and information technology with business, military science, or engineering. However, our program is uniquely designed for students who seek a strong foundation in the fields of investigation and law enforcement.”

The program must be up and running for three years before the school can apply for accreditation, which it plans to do with the Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. When creating the program, the guidelines for accreditation were consulted and followed.

Students in the Cybersecurity program can expect to learn how to defend against cyber attacks, how to recover data, how to design systems, and how to best assist investigations of cyber criminals. Henderson said, “This program represents a strong collaboration between faculty in criminal justice and computer science. The demands of the workforce in information warfare, digital forensics, and policy development are becoming more interdisciplinary. Graduates from this program will secure a well-rounded skill set for a rewarding career.”

Dr. Lynn Gillette, Interim President of Lake Superior State University, noted that the program is coming at a good time for students: “LSSU is laser focused on equipping our graduates for their chosen profession, helping them land their first job, and having the leadership skills needed to be successful. This cybersecurity program fits our mission and the needs of our region well.”

For more information about Lake Superior State University, visit the school’s website.