Welcome to UMBC’s Graduate Cybersecurity Program!
Our world is more interconnected and dependent on the internet, networked technologies, and information than ever before. As a result, any disruption of those systems or diminished ability to access and use the information contained in those systems can have serious consequences for global society, business, government, and individual users.
Countering the many challenges of cyberspace – from criminals and hostile nations to malware and disinformation and more – requires professionals that are knowledgeable about not only the technical issues at-hand but also understand how technology fits into the world around them. More importantly, the modern cybersecurity workforce requires practitioners able to operate effectively and evaluate cybersecurity concerns in ways that extend far beyond the traditional “bits and bytes” of cyberspace – and do so in a professional, ethical manner.
Since 2010, UMBC’s Graduate Cybersecurity Program addresses the requirements of modern cybersecurity by taking an interdisciplinary approach to cybersecurity education. For master’s degree students, the curriculum includes courses on cybersecurity topics that emphasize ways of effectively putting that knowledge into practice. From there, master’s degree students can select a variety of technical or non-technical electives to meet their particular educational or professional needs. By contrast, our post-baccalaureate certificate programs offer a four-course sequence that provides a broad academic orientation to cybersecurity issues to students not necessarily seeking a full graduate degree in the field.
But education at UMBC begins, not ends, in the classroom. While successfully completing your studies is the primary goal as a student, you may also consider contributing to cybersecurity research efforts at our Cyber Defense Lab, participating in various CTF events, attending departmental or program talks, taking advantage of professional opportunities and job-hunting resources provided by our Career Services Center, completing internships, and/or pursuing in other activities and opportunities that can help you reach your desired academic and professional goals – or simply satisfy a personal curiosity in this domain.
I encourage you to explore our academic program offerings and contact us with any questions. ‘Cyber’ remains a prominent and expanding industry both in Maryland and across the globe. and we look forward to helping advance your career in this exciting field!
Cordially,
Dr. Richard F. Forno
Principal Lecturer, Computer Science & Electrical Engineering
Director, UMBC Graduate Cybersecurity Program
Assistant Director, UMBC Cybersecurity Institute