Cybersecurity, B.S.
Format: Face To Face Credits:124
Cybersecurity is focused on protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data, information, and computer systems. It includes learning how to recognize risks, implement and test security measures, investigate attacks, and defend against adversaries. Graduates possess the combination of knowledge and practical, hands-on expertise to defend an organization's information systems from a wide variety of internal and external threats
7%
Michigan Job Growth
Cybersecurity opportunities are projected to grow 7% in Michigan by 2025.
9%
National Job Growth
Cybersecurity opportunities are projected to grow 9% in the U.S. by 2025.
Practical Experience and Hands-On Learning
Cybersecurity majors gain practical experience and participate in hands-on learning opportunities with faculty.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Bachelor of Science degree in cybersecurity at Grand Valley provides broad coverage of cybersecurity concepts as well as hands-on techniques. A strong computing foundation ensures that students have the knowledge to understand the effects of security measures on computing systems as a whole, as well as how to apply security measures to a variety of computing systems. Coverage of societal and organizational issues regarding cybersecurity prepares students with the necessary context to understand how to apply these skills to the diverse challenges facing a wide variety of organizations.
WHY STUDY CYBERSECURITY AT GRAND VALLEY?
- Students can tailor their degree to fit their individual interests and career goals by choosing electives and minors in related subject areas.
- Theoretical foundation and practical experience offer excellent preparation for the job market, along with valuable industry experience.
- By focusing on the underlying principles behind cybersecurity, our program prepares students to handle future cybersecurity challenges, in addition to today's threats.
- Most faculty members hold doctoral degrees and have a breadth of experience in the industry.
- Dedicated state-of-the-art computer labs offer relevant, hands-on learning.
COURSEWORK
The cybersecurity major covers a wide breadth of topics:
- Network security
- Secure software
- Reverse engineering
- Security policy
- Legal and ethical issues
- Systems security
- Cyber-forensics
- Cryptography
- Risk management
COMBINED DEGREE PROGRAMS
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
CAREER OPTIONS
There is a strong demand for cybersecurity professionals. Numerous job opportunities are available, including:
- Cybersecurity specialist
- Cyber-crime investigator
- Penetration tester
- Incident responder
- Cybersecurity analyst
SKILLS EMPLOYERS WANT
The B.S. in Cybersecurity at GVSU will develop the skills you need to land the job you want. Whether the skills are advanced or general, you will build a resume of qualifications that are sure to attract employers. The following skills correlate with those pulled from actual job postings in the field.
- Cyber Security
- Computer Science
- Vulnerability
- Auditing
- Project Management
- Risk Management
- Firewall
- Information Systems
- Incident Response
- Cyber Threat Intelligence
Source: EMSI, 2020
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.