Technology is woven tightly into the fabric of our lives and can be a marvelous tool, but also a potentially dangerous landscape. Saint Martin’s University is preparing students to be on the forefront of cybersecurity by offering a new specialized cybersecurity degree program. Many students and veterans are eager to gain skills for this booming industry where jobs are plentiful. Radana Dvorak, Ph.D., computer science chair and associate professor at the Hal and Inge Marcus School of Engineering at Saint Martin’s University, is leading the way with her enthusiasm and expertise.
“The reason I have a passion for computers, programming and AI was through reading sci-fi from a very early age. Books by Isaac Asimov, P.K. Dick, Frank Herbert, William Gibson, Dan Simoons, Aldous Huxley, Ursula K. Le Guin, and others fed my passion for emerging technologies,” notes Radana.
Local University’s New Degree Program Prepares Students for Well-Paying Cybersecurity Jobs in High Demand
Saint Martin’s University is now training students for in-demand roles, such as Cybersecurity Analyst and Defensive Operations Technician. Organizations across sectors require cybersecurity professionals within their IT departments, but there is currently a serious shortage of qualified personnel. Radana reports that there are millions of unfilled positions globally and approximately 750,000 vacancies within the U.S. alone. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 35% growth in information security analyst roles from 2021 to 2031—far exceeding average job growth rates—with an impressive average salary of approximately $119,860 per year.
Working in cybersecurity requires an interesting mix of skills. “It is very creative,” shares Radana. “Professionals need to identify patterns and be detail-oriented.” The field calls for analytical skills, big-picture thinking and advanced problem-solving skills. “We will need people with creativity and who can look at things differently.”
Saint Martin’s University Offers Cutting-Edge Technology Degree Options
The Computer Science Department offers three undergraduate degrees relating to technology fields: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), both accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), and the new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (BSCY), which follows the ABET requirements and adheres to the National Institute for Cybersecurity/National Institute of Standards and Technology (NICE/NIST) framework. Other degree offerings include a Master of Science in Computer Science, and the WaVets2Tech program specially designed for military and military-affiliated students.
Saint Martin’s well-trained instructors are experts in their fields. The curriculum aligns with the University’s values of educating the whole person, integrating community living, emphasizing dignity of work, and incorporating justice and stewardship within technical learning. The technology programs teach risk assessment, intrusion detection and proficiency with cybersecurity tools like firewalls and antivirus systems. Students are primed to graduate and approach their cybersecurity work with a strong ethical foundation. They are also eligible to apply for federal scholarships along their pathways.
Who Might Want a Cybersecurity Degree
Saint Martin’s University maintains a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and opportunity, proudly supporting first-generation and minority students. Students at Saint Martin’s include recent high school graduates and professionals already in the workforce. Some students transfer into the program with an associate degree from another educational institution. Veterans are welcome and encouraged to apply, and can use credit they have already garnered along with educational benefits to pay for schooling. “We have a large number of non-traditional students in our department,” says Radana.
Individuals drawn to cybersecurity degrees typically combine analytical thinking with creative problem-solving and enjoy the challenge of staying ahead in a constantly evolving technological landscape. Ideal candidates include tech-savvy professionals seeking career advancement, veterans transitioning to civilian roles, and students fascinated by digital security challenges who aspire to protect organizations from increasingly sophisticated threats. Cybersecurity presents an exceptional opportunity for those interested in making a meaningful contribution while enjoying a financially rewarding career.
Cyber Safety Reminders from Saint Martin’s University
Cybersecurity graduates from Saint Martin’s will likely be working working to protect the digital information of our community. However, it is important that all individuals incorporate technology safety into their lives.
To maintain healthy cyber hygiene:
- When using public Wi-Fi, avoid carrying out personal transactions that use sensitive data.
- Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication when possible.
- Keep your devices updated.
- Review your privacy settings and set to appropriate levels.
- Verify a link is legitimate before you click!
- Back up your data regularly
- Be thoughtful of what you post and where. It can last forever.
Our community is fortunate to have a local university that is on the forefront of training people to optimize security online. You can learn more about Saint Martin’s exciting new cybersecurity degree as well as their many other programs, events and activities on the Saint Martin’s University website.
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