CyberDegreesEDU recently ranked UMSL No. 7 on its list of the “Top 55 Most Affordable Cybersecurity Schools and Colleges in the U.S.” The university offers both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cybersecurity as well as minors and certificates. (Advertising created by Graphic Designer Marty Baragiola)
There remains a shortage of cybersecurity professionals in the U.S. workforce, and the University of Missouri–St. Louis is working to help address it.
The university offers both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in cybersecurity, along with minors and certificates. Students can choose an emphasis in either computer science or information systems and technology, and they can earn their degree without an overwhelming cost.
CyberDegreesEDU recently ranked UMSL No. 7 on its list of the “Top 55 Most Affordable Cybersecurity Schools and Colleges in the U.S.”
“We’re very pleased to be recognized for the value we provide our students, and we are committed to preparing them to work and build careers in this critical field,” said Associate Professor Cezary Janikow, chair of the Department of Computer Science who helps oversee the cybersecurity program with partners in the College of Business Administration.
CyberDegreesEDU is an independent educational organization that provides resources for students interested in pursuing higher education and employment in the cybersecurity field.
In its ranking of UMSL, the organization noted that the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security have named the university one of the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
“These designations not only demonstrate UMSL’s commitment to meeting national standards for cybersecurity education, but also provide students with additional opportunities, including prestigious certifications, government scholarships, access to career fairs and more,” said Abde Mtibaa, assistant professor and cybersecurity program director in Department of Computer Science.
UMSL also earned commendation for its cybersecurity lab and scholarship opportunities dedicated for students in cybersecurity. US Bank has donated four scholarships, each valued at $2,500, to UMSL students each year since 2017.
The university has opportunities for students to assist faculty members in both computer science and information systems and technology with research and innovation designed to address some of the latest and most significant cybersecurity problems. Faculty members have recently received more than $1 Million from prestigious funding agencies such as National Science Foundation and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Students at UMSL also have the chance to participate in the annual STLCyberCon, a flagship cybersecurity conference that brings together academics, researchers, practitioners, students and community members. This year’s conference placed a particular emphasis on advancing ideas to build a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Technology is becoming more and more embedded into the activities of everyday life, and with it, the need for enhanced cybersecurity to protect sensitive information continues to rise.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted a 31 percent increase in jobs for information security analysts between 2019 and 2029 with companies, organizations and governments scrambling to meet the growing threats, there have been few signs of slowing demand.
“A degree in cyber security is likely to provide all graduates with unlimited opportunities,” CyberDegreesEDU said in announcing its rankings. “Take the time to determine which niche is right for you so that you can find the matching affordable college or university to meet your needs.”
