Halt hackers in their tracks
Shenandoah’s cybersecurity program provides a solid technical background alongside practical experience in digital security.
The bachelor of science in cybersecurity provides students with the knowledge and skills to keep digital systems safe. Students will learn how to use the latest technologies and best practices to protect against cyber attacks. Graduates of our program will be industry-ready and/or prepared for graduate studies in cybersecurity.
The cybersecurity field blends computer science and information technology concepts with digital security. Students will learn how to analyze computer systems and networks to expose vulnerabilities. Courses in computer programming, mathematics and network security foster the development of strong problem solving abilities. Coursework covering computer related law, law enforcement and evidence gathering is included.
The BS in Cybersecurity prepares students for exciting careers fighting cybercrime in one of technology’s fastest growing career areas. Every day we read about new malware or data breaches that threaten our privacy and security. Our hands-on courses give students the skills to handle real world scenarios and students can earn academic credit while gaining valuable internship experience.”
Anne Marchant | Founder of Division of Applied Technology
The Division of Applied Technology is committed to promoting diversity of all kinds and is a proud member of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT). Transfer students are welcome!
Member Of The National Center For Women & Information Technology Academic Alliance
Shenandoah University is a proud member of the National Center for Women & Information Technology Academic Alliance.
NCWIT is a non-profit community that convenes, equips, and unites change leader organizations to increase the influence and meaningful participation of girls and women — at the intersections of race, ethnicity, class, age, sexual orientation, and disability status — in the influential field of computing, particularly in terms of innovation and development.
Minor in This Program
The 18-credit Minor in Cybersecurity is designed to augment any major by giving students practical knowledge of IT, cybersecurity, networking and introductory programming. Students completing the minor will be more competitive in today’s technology based workplace and better prepared to keep systems and data safe. Coursework includes hands-on activities and lab experiences.
Declaring A Minor
Shenandoah students work with their Academic Advisor to declare a minor. Academic Advisors will continue to work with students to ensure that they fulfill all of the requirements to complete the minor.
Incoming students should not indicate their intended minor on their Shenandoah application. Applications are for intended majors only.
Internship Possibilities
Students will complete an internship opportunity as a capstone experience. This will allow students to gain hands on experience in their desired field.
We are currently working with outside companies to create a strong internship program that will allow Shenandoah students to have hands on work experience prior to graduation. This will allow students to become more marketable. An internship experience is a required component to the program.
Career & Professional Development helps Shenandoah students search and apply for internships related to their major and career goals. Internships differentiate you as an applicant in your future job searches, provide hands on experience in your field, allow you to sample different career paths for your major, and help you find a specific position that fits your passion before graduation.
Career and Salary Possibilities
Expected Salary for Cybersecurity graduates:
- $99,730 per year nationally (higher in our region)
- $47.95 per hour
Growing Cybersecurity job market:
- Over 35,000 Cybersecurity positions will be created in the next decade
- 31% job growth is expected through 2029.
Cybersecurity positions are understaffed:
- 69% of firms say their cybersecurity team is understaffed
- 58% of firms have unfilled (open) cybersecurity positions.
Organizations will increase their investment in Cybersecurity:
- 55% of surveyed firms say their cybersecurity budget will increase
- 57% have increased training investments in order to help decrease this cybersecurity skills gap
Information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2020
Career & Professional Development provides a comprehensive range of services and resources to assist Shenandoah students in their career search. Services offered include resume and cover letter building, mock interviews, and professional dining etiquette workshops.
Classes
Class sizes are small and students have many opportunities to work as a team and with their faculty members. Students will complete projects and examine case studies to investigate security concerns in the real world.
Students will complete an internship opportunity as a capstone experience. This will allow students to gain hands on experience in their desired field.
For more information on classes and program requirements, see the catalog.
Computer Programming was something that I never would’ve expected myself to be able to do, but CSC 121 taught me the basics of programming with zero background knowledge, and it allowed me to become competent and feel confident in myself in this exciting area of technology!”
Renee Jeanette ’19
I took CSC121/122 as an opportunity to learn something new because I recently learned about computational modeling being used in the many areas of biology. I knew how interconnected science, math and technology are, so I wanted to work on developing skills that would be beneficial to my future career. These courses have been so much fun because I have learned a lot, and there is a fantastic sense of excitement and accomplishment when your programs work properly.”
Emily Martin ’18
Learning support services are available to all students in every course at Shenandoah. Free peer tutoring with a student who has previously succeeded in the course is available for any course across the university. The Writing Center is available for every stage of the writing process from thesis development to proofreading and bibliography assistance. The Math Enrichment Center is available for math and science assistance. Professors and Academic Advisors across the university also have office hours and open door policies to ensure Shenandoah students succeed academically.
Join The Honors Program
The Honors Program is a multidisciplinary Honors Program for students who are curious, creative, self-motivated, and eager to engage in their education and community.
Not only do Honors Program students partake in honors courses that emphasize collaboration, service, and communication, but they will also have the opportunity to develop aspects of the program based on their own interests and goals. By participating in the Honors Program you will acquire the tools, knowledge and experiences necessary to make meaningful contributions to your community – whether it be globally, locally, or specific to your life’s work. You will have access to unique courses, exciting experiences and a community of peers and faculty who never stop asking questions and striving for excellence.
Application Information
Shenandoah University works on rolling admissions and accepts applications throughout the year. Applications are reviewed individually and holistically.
Submit your application, review required admission materials, and find our admissions standards.
IT/Cybersecurity Technician Certificate
This 12 credit, undergraduate certificate provides students with the concepts and skills needed to obtain an entry level position in IT or Cybersecurity support. The certificate includes an introduction to computer hardware, software, operating systems, programming fundamentals as well as networking and cybersecurity basics. These same classes will apply towards both the IT and Cybersecurity Majors.
Explore the Information Technology Technician Certificate
For more information on classes and program requirements, see the current catalog.
Study Abroad
Make studying abroad the highlight of your college experience! Whether you go for a year, a semester, or just a few weeks. You will never forget learning in another culture! The Center for International Programs is here to help you plan your study abroad experience. Start your planning early to ensure the courses you complete abroad count toward your degree and you graduate on time.
Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program
The Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Program offers Shenandoah students a short-term, faculty-led, study-abroad experience for academic credit. These short-term, credit-bearing, faculty-led programs are offered winter break, spring break, and during the summer. If a course is not within your major, it might be used as an elective.
Study Abroad
Shenandoah University is a member of the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), a global network of 300 universities. This partnership allows students to study for a full semester or year at other member campuses abroad. By working closely with their academic advisors and the study abroad advisor, students can take classes taught in English abroad while receiving Shenandoah credit.
Shenandoah University also maintains direct partnerships with several universities around the world. These relationships allow students from SU to study abroad as exchange students and students from these universities to study at SU. All partner universities offer courses taught in English.
