Program(s) Available: B.S., Minor
Are you intrigued by technology and data? Have you always had an interest in (ethical) hacking? If so, consider Northwest Missouri State University’s cybersecurity major. At Northwest, you’ll learn career-relevant skills from day one and study at an institution recognized for its top-notch preparation of cybersecurity professionals.
This traditional four-year bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity includes both theory and practice in core areas of cybersecurity, including secure programming, secure system administration, ethical hacking, penetration testing, cryptography and digital forensics. Our program is validated by the National Security Agency (NSA) and is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.
Courses for the bachelor’s in cybersecurity program include:
The cybersecurity minor allows you to supplement your computer science, business, digital media or other related major with knowledge and skills that help set you apart in the job market. Courses include:
From its recognition for excellence by the NSA to extracurricular opportunities to build cyber defense skills (and have fun), Northwest’s cybersecurity major offers cutting-edge preparation for your future in the field. With a holistic understanding of cybersecurity and numerous hands-on experiences, you’ll graduate ready to investigate, communicate and combat threats to a company’s infrastructure.
Study at an institution recognized for its industry-aligned curriculum and top-notch preparation for cybersecurity careers. Our program stands out for its focus on hands-on learning, coverage of critical areas like digital forensics and ethical hacking, and preparation for industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker.
Put your skills to the test, receive academic support and connect with other students in the Center for Cybersecurity. With cutting-edge equipment, cybersecurity competitions and more, the Center for Cybersecurity provides numerous opportunities to grow your expertise and skill set.
Cyber Defense Club. Cyberpalooza. Competitions. Whether you want to network, introduce high schoolers to the cybersecurity field or show off your skills, Northwest offers numerous ways to connect and build community while further preparing for your career. You’ll also benefit from access to a professional advisory team made up of individuals working in the industry.
With skills in programming, information security, digital forensics and more, Northwest cybersecurity majors can go into a wide range of careers. Our graduates have gone on to hold positions at United Airlines, Oracle Center, Coalfire, American Century and Principal.
Specific cybersecurity careers include:
We understand that college is an investment, which is why we’re invested in you. Our program has several scholarships available for cybersecurity majors. Search cybersecurity and computer science scholarships or browse all aid below.
From our over 200 majors and programs to our commitment to putting student needs first, Northwest is truly dedicated to helping every student succeed – both at Northwest and after graduation.
Whether you want to join Cyber Defense Club, rally around a cause or compete in Esports, there’s an option for you at Northwest. Browse student organizations.
With the most national titles in DII football history, a wide range of sports teams and a community that cheers them on, you’ll feel Bearcat pride wherever you go – and experience a campus that truly feels like home.
“Northwest Missouri State University’s cybersecurity program prepared me to not only obtain a job in the Cybersecurity field but enabled me to excel beyond my peers in my career and further post-graduate education. The program allowed me to develop invaluable technical skills using not only theory-based instruction but also hands-on exercises and real-world examples in a state-of-the-art cyber lab.”
Jack Hill | Senior Manager - NetDevOps at United Airlines | B.S. Cybersecurity (2020)
Learn from faculty with diverse industry experience and active research in areas like intrusion detection, cyber-physical systems, and secure software development. Our faculty focus on profession-based learning to ensure you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and career-ready skills.
Cybersecurity professionals often major in cybersecurity and may minor in related fields like computer science, data science, or business to expand their technical and managerial skill sets.
Requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills, cybersecurity can be a challenging major. However, with the hands-on learning and academic support Northwest has to offer, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed as a cybersecurity major here and following graduation.
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is an excellent choice for those interested in a fast-growing, high-demand field with ample career opportunities and competitive salaries.
A cybersecurity degree prepares you to work in numerous roles protecting systems and data, including information security analyst, penetration tester, IT security specialist and network architect.
