Study Cybersecurity in Florida
Picture yourself in a rapidly changing digital world, where threats lurk in every corner of the internet. You are intrigued by the challenge, passionate about safety and security, but you don’t know where to start. How can you enter the exciting and crucial field of cybersecurity without the right training and knowledge?
The mere thought of sensitive data breaches, stolen identities, and compromised national security can send shivers down anyone’s spine. More than ever, the world needs knights in digital armor, but where do you train to be one? Where can you learn to counter these malicious hackers and safeguard our digital universe?
That’s where Florida steps in. Renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, Florida is also emerging as a hub for in-person and online cybersecurity degree programs. With a range of degrees that blend technical prowess with strategic thinking, Florida’s institutions are shaping the cyber warriors of tomorrow.
Cybersecurity Degrees in Florida
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering cybersecurity degrees in Florida:
- University of South Florida
- University of West Florida
- Florida Institute of Technology
- University of Central Florida
- Saint Leo University
- Eastern Florida State College
- Florida Polytechnic University
- Florida Southern College
- University of North Florida
University of South Florida
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
Pursuing the 120-credit Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity (BSCyS) at the University of South Florida, you will delve deep into technology, individuals, data, and systems. This will equip you to confidently handle cyber operations, especially when faced with potential threats.
This degree is rooted in computing and IT. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity. This covers areas like software, systems, user interactions, organizational aspects, policy, ethics, and how cybersecurity affects society as a whole.
Here’s what the BSCyS aims to offer you:
- You will get a mix of basic and advanced knowledge in computing. This includes areas like information security, software safety, and broader aspects like societal security, which touches on laws, policies, and ethics.
- You will learn to apply these principles to the various parts of a computer system, whether it’s the hardware, software, or the people using them. This means you’ll know how to assess, improve, and maintain systems, even when there are cyber threats around.
By the end of the program, you will be able to:
- Break down complex computer problems and find solutions using what you have learned.
- Design, put in place, and test solutions that fit the specific needs of a situation.
- Speak clearly and effectively in different professional settings.
- Know your professional duties and make choices based on laws and ethics.
- Work well in a team, whether you’re a member or the leader.
- Keep things running smoothly, even when there are risks or threats.
- Use what you havee learned to advance in your job or go on to higher studies.
- Act responsibly and ethically, always staying updated and actively participating in your profession and community.
- Solve problems in innovative ways, communicate clearly, and work well in teams from various fields.
- Understand and use cybersecurity best practices to protect data, devices, processes, and people from threats.
As part of your studies, you will need to finish a project called the IT Senior Project (CIS 4935). It’s also a good idea to get some real-world experience with an internship.
You will need to keep your grades up too. You should aim for at least a 2.0 GPA in your classes, including specific subjects like Math and Science, Engineering, and others. Some of the core courses that you will take include:
- Foundations of Cybersecurity
- Human Aspects of Cybersecurity
- Computer Information Networks for IT
- Data Structures and Algorithms for IT
- Human Computer Interfaces
- Network Security and Firewalls
- Web Systems for IT
- Penetration Testing
- Hands-on Cybersecurity
Once you graduate, there are many jobs you can explore. You could become a Cybersecurity Specialist or an Information Security Analyst. These roles involve making sure computer systems are safe and can fend off attacks.
You might also look into jobs that focus on cybercrime, helping the police or working on counterterrorism. Besides government jobs, you could also find roles in tech companies, banks, hospitals, insurance companies, or even universities.
University of West Florida
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity
At the University of West Florida, the 120-credit cybersecurity program sharpens your thinking, boosts your ability to analyze, and hones your problem-solving prowess. You will get hands-on experience in the cybersecurity lab and even have the chance to join regional cyber contests.
By taking up this B.S. in Cybersecurity, you are gearing up to be at the forefront of safeguarding data and analyzing threats that loom over systems and networks. You will explore ways, rules, procedures, and tools that make sure information remains safe, no matter where it is.
The curriculum focuses on the techniques, policies, operational procedures, and technologies that secure and defend the availability, integrity, authentication, and confidentiality of information and information systems, in local as well as more broadly based domains.
This major sets you up for roles like information system security experts or key managers who ensure the security of information systems. Some of the core courses that you will take include:
- Introduction to Cybersecurity
- Introduction to Computer Organization
- Introduction to Database Security
- Theory and Fundamentals of Networks
- Algorithm and Program Design
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Computer and Network Security
- Theory and Fundamentals of Operating Systems
- Linux System Administration
Here’s what you will be able to do by the end of the cybersecurity program:
- Analyze tricky computer issues and use your computing knowledge, along with insights from other fields, to find solutions.
- Design, set up, and test tech solutions, keeping in mind the program’s goals.
- Speak clearly and professionally in different settings.
- Understand your role, making choices rooted in law and ethics.
- Work well in teams, whether you are leading or just a part of it.
- Keep things secure, even when there are looming threats.
As a graduate, here’s what will set you apart:
- You will play a big role in protecting data and understanding system threats, working alone or in diverse teams, with a global mindset.
- You will work in cybersecurity, showing off your skills, know-how, and commitment to doing things right.
- Always be on the lookout for ways to learn and grow, whether that’s more studies, training, or other professional activities.
- You will be a part of boosting the economic growth of Northwest Florida and even the whole state.
Remember to keep up with the university’s main requirements. For this major, you will need to get at least a “C-” in all your core courses, aiming for an average GPA of 2.5 or more. And don’t forget to consult with your advisor. They will help you pick courses that can count towards general studies and other prerequisites.
The B.S in Cybersecurity at the University of West Florida is approval by the the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET.
Florida Institute of Technology
Master of Science (MS) – Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
At Florida Tech, the 33-credit master’s program in information assurance and cybersecurity trains you with the essential skills to combat the ever-growing list of threats to businesses, governments, and military bodies. These threats range from the theft of identities and valuable intellectual property to illegal access to personal details and infrastructure security breaches.
Your coursework will delve into various areas, spanning high-level organizational security policies down to technical specifics, like memory content verification. Whether you choose to study on campus or engage in the interactive online sessions, you’ll find a comprehensive curriculum awaiting you.
A unique aspect of Florida Tech’s approach is its interdisciplinary nature. In the information assurance and cybersecurity program, you will interact and collaborate with peers and faculty across diverse fields, enriching your learning experience.
Given that many of your fellow students might already be working professionals, your study environment will be mature, fostering cooperation and group study. The program also benefits from its association with the Harris Institute for Assured Information, an interdisciplinary hub that combines insights from fields like computer science, business, biology, and psychology to offer cutting-edge knowledge in computer security.
Some of the core courses that you will take include:
- Computer and Information Security
- Host and Application Security
- Secure Operating Systems
- Secure Data Communications and Networks
- Biometric Authentication Technologies
- Cryptography and Information Hiding
The core curriculum of this master’s program ensures you are well-equipped to tackle both present and future cyber threats. Key areas of study include:
- Understanding threats, security architecture, and vulnerabilities.
- Grasping attack methods, operations processes, and forensics.
- Delving into operating system security and their secure or vulnerable features.
- Learning communication encryption and models.
- Exploring data mining and machine learning in cybersecurity contexts.
- Studying biometric tech along with its privacy and legal concerns.
- Implementing security measures in emerging technologies to guard against potential attacks.
Florida Tech’s strategic location in the Space Coast’s tech-intensive corridor means you will be rubbing shoulders with industry giants like NASA, Harris Corp., and Leonardo DRS.
Your post-graduate career trajectory will largely be influenced by your prior background and interests. Say you come into this program with a degree in computer science or engineering; you could potentially transition into a role as a software engineer or architect, specializing in security.
One of Florida Tech’s strengths is its small class sizes, fostering close and professional bonds between you and your professors. The faculty here don’t just teach; they bring in real-world experience from both academia and industry. This blend ensures that you receive a practical education, preparing you for real-world challenges posed by cyber adversaries.
To apply, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least three semester credit hours of statistics and at least three semester credit hours of discrete mathematics. ln addition, you should have also completed at least nine semester credit hours of computer programming coursework including three semester credit hours of data structures. GRE scores (General Test only) are also required.
University of Central Florida
Master of Science – Cyber Security and Privacy
The University of Central Florida’s 30-credit Master of Science in Cyber Security and Privacy program is tailored to deliver an exceptional education in cybersecurity. Focused on advancing research in cybersecurity and privacy, it aims to tackle critical state, national, and international cybersecurity issues. This program is particularly designed to cater to the specific needs of the business and industrial sectors in Florida and across the United States.
Upon successful completion, you will possess a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical and practical facets of cybersecurity. This includes detailed insights into software, hardware, operating systems, and various networked devices.
You will have the option to select from two distinct paths within the MS program: the “Technical Track” or the “Interdisciplinary Track.”
- Technical Track: If you aspire to become an advanced cybersecurity professional, this track is for you. It focuses on cultivating expertise in areas like secure execution environments, malware analysis, and more. You will have the opportunity to delve into electives such as networking, databases, operating systems, computer architecture, algorithms, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and software engineering.
- Interdisciplinary Track: If you aim to pursue managerial or administrative roles in cybersecurity, this track might be the right fit. You will be required to complete fundamental core courses on cybersecurity and privacy, and you can select electives in management, business, human factors, psychology, or criminal justice, according to your interests and professional objectives.
Both tracks in the MS in Cybersecurity and Privacy program come with thesis and non-thesis options, with each requiring at least 30 credit hours beyond your bachelor’s degree. They both include 9 credit hours of mandatory core courses and 21 credits in electives (7 courses).
If you opt for the Technical Track, your electives will encompass at least one course from cybersecurity/privacy topics, one from networking, and one from data analytics. These fields are crucial for mastering advanced knowledge in cybersecurity and privacy. Additionally, you may choose electives from areas such as operating systems, computer architecture, algorithms, machine learning, AI, and software engineering to broaden your understanding.
On the other hand, if you pursue the Interdisciplinary Track, you will have the flexibility to pick electives from fields like management and business, human factors, psychology, and criminal justice, aligning them with your career interests and focus. Both tracks offer a thesis option, equivalent to 6 credit hours of electives.
This program ensures a comprehensive learning experience, whether you wish to delve into the technical aspects of cybersecurity or focus on the intersection of technology and management. With its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, it prepares you to thrive in various roles in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity.
As a graduate of this master’s program, you will be poised to:
- Design and implement security strategies
- Set up emergency response protocols
- Monitor organizational networks for potential breaches, initiating countermeasures if breaches occur
- Oversee the deployment of software, firewalls, and encryption tools
- Perform penetration tests and assess the results to fortify defenses
- Stay updated with the latest in cybersecurity to preempt and counter threats
- Lead and manage disaster recovery initiatives.
To apply, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a U.S. institution of higher education accredited (minimum GPA of 3.0).
Saint Leo University
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity
The College of Business at Saint Leo University offers a cyber security program that equips students with the essential knowledge required for starting careers in cybersecurity. You can choose to study either on-campus or through the convenience of online classes.
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is design to mold the upcoming batch of cybersecurity experts, emphasizing safeguarding vital data and digital assets. The program explores areas like cyber prevention, detection, recovery strategies, and advanced forensic methods.
During the program, you will gain insights into various facets of cybersecurity, such as foundational principles, ethical hacking, penetration testing, and the intricacies of protecting computer networks. Plus, you will dive deep into how to manage and maintain security tools, systems, and protocols.
The program also offers hands-on experience using actual security tools and technologies, akin to those used by seasoned professionals. This practical experience is made possible through a state-of-the-art virtual lab, where you will engage in simulated IT settings and face realistic security challenges, mirroring the kind of situations you’d face in a real-world cybersecurity role.
Some of the core courses that you will take include:
- Computer Systems
- Principles of Networking
- Fundamentals of Cybersecurity
- Penetration Testing and Counter Measures
- Network Theory and Design
- Computer Architecture
- Introduction to Internet Applications
- Systems Security
- Introduction to Information Security
- Network Defense and Security
By the end of the program, as a graduate of the BS in Cybersecurity, you will be adept at analyzing an organization’s network and security needs, gauging cybersecurity threats, crafting management strategies, evaluating security system performances, and overseeing comprehensive information security frameworks. The program ensures that you are well-versed with the most recent techniques and tools, empowering you to offer businesses timely security solutions and devise effective cybersecurity strategies and guidelines.
Online learning at Saint Leo University is designed with your convenience in mind, ensuring a holistic education while allowing you to customize your learning path according to your personal requirements. The university recognizes that you may have commitments beyond your studies. Hence, it offers an education that’s both top-notch and flexible. Whether you are studying online or in-person, expect a curriculum rich in hands-on learning experiences and academic excellence.