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Jul 04, 2025
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2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog
Computer Security Major, B.S.
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About the Program
The Department of Computer Sciences offers coursework leading to the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Computer Security. The Computer Security (CSEC) major is a deeply technical program that is firmly grounded in the computer science discipline. It provides students with fundamental theories as well as extensive opportunities for hands-on applications in cybersecurity. Graduates in Computer Security are positioned for employment in a wide variety of high-demand, high-paying jobs in the cybersecurity field. The CSEC major also prepares students for continued study of Cybersecurity or Computer Science at the graduate level. Students are encouraged to contact the department for further details.
Student Outcomes
The student outcomes to be reached upon completion of this program are an extension of the general computing degree requirements and aligned with the ABET criteria for “Cybersecurity and Similarly Named Computing Programs.” Upon graduation, students will have an ability to:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and to apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply security principles and practices to maintain operations in the presence of risks and threats.
- Formulate or design a security system, process, procedure or program for the intended purpose.
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General Degree Requirements
To earn a degree, students must satisfy all requirements in each of the four areas below, in addition to their individual major requirements. Program Requirements
- A total of 120 semester hours are required for graduation.
- A grade of “C-” or better is required in all CS, CSEC, and DSML courses included in the major, all upper-division elective courses, all ancillary courses, and all required mathematics courses. Students should note that programs differ in the minimum grade required.
General Studies Requirements: 33 credits
Students should consult the General Studies Requirements for a list of courses that fulfill the General Studies Requirements for degree completion. Some of the science, mathematics, and ancillary courses required for the CSEC major may partially or fully satisfy specific General Studies requirements. - Written Communication (6 credits)
- Oral Communication (3 credits)
- Quantitative Literacy (3 credits)
- Arts and Humanities (6 credits)
- Historical (3 credits)
- Natural and Physical Sciences (6 credits)
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
- Global Diversity (0 or 3 credits**)
**Students will fulfill the global diversity requirement by taking an approved course within one of the following categories: arts and humanities; historical; natural and physical sciences; or social and behavioral sciences. Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Requirement: 0 or 3 credits
- Students should consult the Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Graduation Requirement for a list of courses that fulfill the ESSJ Requirement for degree completion.
- Many programs include courses that meet this requirement. Students should consult with their advisor to determine what program courses may fulfill this requirement.
Required Mathematics Courses: 8 credits
Required Ancillary Courses: 9 credits
Professional Presentation Requirement: 3 credits
Technical Writing Requirement: 3 credits
Computer Security Ethics Requirement: 3 credits
Required Computer Security Courses: 64 credits
Major Core Courses: 56 credits
Upper Division Electives: 4 credits
A minimum of 4 semester hours selected from additional upper-division CS, CSEC, or DSML courses. Part of or all these 4 semester hours may also be selected from AES 3600, AES 3880, AES 4601, AES 4200, CPE 3330, or CPE 4370 Senior Experience: 4 credits
Summary of Requirements
General Studies Requirements | 33 credits | ESSJ Requirement | 0-3 credits | Required Mathematics Courses | 8 credits | Professional Presentation Requirement | 3 credits | Technical Writing Requirement | 3 credits | Computer Security Ethics Requirement | 3 credits | Required Major Core Courses | 56 credits | Major Upper Division Electives | 4 credits | Senior Experience | 34 credits | Unrestricted Electives | 3-15 credits | Total for the Computer Security Major, B.S. | 120 credits | Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and ESSJ requirements, so the total credits listed may be greater than the number required to complete the degree. Therefore, it is important that you work with your advisor to make sure you are meeting requirements for your degree. Note
As an alternative to the B.S. degree program, the Department of Computer Sciences works with the Center for Individualized Learning to provide students with programs customized to their educational needs. Program Created on June 27, 2025 |
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