With National Security Administration recognition, Touro’s bachelor’s in cybersecurity is set to train the next generation of much-needed cybersecurity professionals.
(Courtesy of Touro University) Nearly every day, there’s another news report about a data breach that’s exposed the sensitive information of millions of people or some hacker group that’s using ransomware to extort money from a corporation. In today’s information-driven world, knowing how to protect data, systems and networks is not only a highly sought skill—it’s also critical for both personal and national security.
Touro University is training the next generation of much-needed cybersecurity professionals, and the school’s bachelor of science degree program in cybersecurity and network administration was awarded the National Security Agency’s (NSA) prestigious designation of Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).
There are only about 400 schools in the U.S.—and just 19 in New York—hat have earned this designation. “The National Science Foundation and the Department of Homeland Security designed this program to cultivate a culture of excellence in cybersecurity through rigorous curriculum and program requirements,” explained Touro’s Associate Director of Cybersecurity Satchit Hegde. “Touro is proud to be part of this community of schools committed to developing the cyber workforce.”
What Is an NSA Designation In Cyber Defense?
NSA designation is a distinction that’s awarded by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) program, which is managed by NSA’s National Cryptologic School. The program was established as a partnership with educational institutions to develop cybersecurity curriculum standards of excellence and to ensure the competency of students and faculty. It also promotes the integration of cross-discipline cybersecurity practices and encourages leadership, community outreach and the pursuit of solutions related to cybersecurity education.
“At Touro, we have always prided ourselves on offering a robust and comprehensive Cybersecurity program,” shared Payam Bina, deputy chair of the Touro University Computer Science department. “Achieving this designation not only validates the strength and quality of our program but also underscores our commitment to excellence in cybersecurity education.”
Receiving an NSA designation is a reflection of an academic institution’s dedication to training students with a comprehensive and cutting-edge cybersecurity curriculum. It’s a mark of excellence that shows that the school has developed a rigorous and high-quality degree program that the NSA feels confident will prepare students to not only work in the field but make meaningful contributions to it.
“This achievement is a monumental milestone for our institution, and it signifies our commitment to providing top-tier cybersecurity education,” Bina asserted. “It underscores the quality and rigor of our cybersecurity program and places us among the elite group of institutions recognized for their excellence in cyber defense education.”
Students who choose a CAE-CD designated program like Touro’s B.S. in Cybersecurity and Network Administration will learn the most up-to-date information and build the most relevant skills needed to succeed in the industry. CAE-CD programs are continuously updated and improved to keep up with the quickly evolving field of cybersecurity and maintain their designation.
Graduates of CAE-CD programs also may have a competitive edge in the marketplace. Because the NSA designation indicates a thorough, rigorous and high-caliber education program, many employers value degrees earned from CAE-CD schools over those without. As a result, graduates may be able to more easily open doors to prestigious positions in government agencies, private sector companies, and beyond.
Building a Career With a Bachelor’s Degree in Cybersecurity
After graduation, students will be prepared to work in a variety of roles and are likely to be in high demand in the workplace with an average annual salary of between $100,000 and $136,000. Employers seek out graduates from NSA-designated schools, and the field is growing quickly. In fact, between 2021 and 2031, the computer and information technology field is expected to grow by 15% and add nearly 683,000 jobs.
Graduates from Touro’s Cybersecurity and Network Administration bachelor’s program have already found success in the industry and currently work for organizations like Google, Citi, TransUnion, the City of New York Office of Labor Relations, the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Fabuwood, and Global Tech Solutions in roles such as cybersecurity consultant, devops engineer, cybersecurity architect, data engineering manager, director of technology and security analyst.
If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, Touro’s NSA-designated bachelor’s degree can help you develop the skills you’ll need to thrive with a rigorous CAE-CD curriculum that will help you stand out in the job market.
