Maryville University's cybersecurity program has been recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency, placing it among the top institutions in the United States. This designation opens doors to a network of schools, enhances internship opportunities, and boosts confidence in the program.
Maryville University's Cybersecurity Program Achieves National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Designation
( Credit to: Maryville )
Maryville University's cybersecurity program has achieved a significant milestone, earning the designation of a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) from the National Security Agency (NSA). This recognition places Maryville among the top institutions in the United States offering cybersecurity degrees and certificates.
The journey towards this achievement was not an easy one. Maryville's cybersecurity program, established in 2014, had to undergo a rigorous application process to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence and adherence to best standards in cybersecurity education. Assistant professor of cybersecurity, Brian Gant, described the designation as a "crowning achievement" for the university.
Benefits of the CAE-CD Designation for Maryville Students
The benefits of the CAE-CD designation for Maryville students are manifold. Firstly, it opens doors to a network of schools across the nation that also hold the NSA designation. This network will provide students with enhanced opportunities for internships and partnerships, ultimately increasing their chances of securing positions in the cybersecurity field. Additionally, the designation boosts confidence in the university and its program, attracting high-caliber professors and giving students a solid foundation for their future careers.
Reed Huskey, a cybersecurity major at Maryville, emphasized the importance of the CAE-CD classification in demonstrating the robustness of the program's curriculum. Huskey, who interned at Caterpillar Inc. and now works as a security operations center analyst, believes that the federal stamp of approval adds credibility to the program and helps students explore their specific interests within the field.
Jada Turner, another student in the cybersecurity program, expressed gratitude for the support and guidance provided by her instructors. She believes that the program's emphasis on encouraging questions and fostering a deep understanding of the professional realm will make her a valuable asset in her future role as a cloud security analyst at Emerson Electric Co.
Even though Drew Klauser graduated before Maryville earned its CAE-CD designation, his degree will reflect the elevated status of the program. As a security analyst for ezCater, Klauser recognizes the weight that comes with attending an NSA-accredited school, both in terms of career opportunities and the caliber of prospective employees.
The Growing Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals
The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow across industries. With every organization relying on computer networks, the need for skilled cybersecurity experts is evident. Maryville's cybersecurity program prepares students for a range of roles, from addressing security incidents to working on risk management and policy development. The success of Maryville's cybersecurity graduates, with 98% of them achieving positive career outcomes, further highlights the program's effectiveness.
While many students find success with a bachelor's degree alone, Maryville also offers a master's program in cybersecurity. This advanced degree equips professionals with additional certifications and can significantly enhance their lifetime earnings, according to Cliff Wilke, a Maryville graduate cybersecurity instructor and program coordinator.
Conclusion
Achieving the CAE-CD designation is a significant milestone for Maryville University's cybersecurity program. It not only validates the program's excellence but also brings a wealth of opportunities for students, faculty, and alumni. As Maryville continues to prioritize cybersecurity education, it remains committed to providing a distinguished learning experience in this rapidly evolving discipline.
To learn more about Maryville University's cybersecurity program, please visit their website.
