Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity professionals protect data in computers and networks from crimes such as hacking and data theft.

Illinois State’s Cybersecurity major focuses on security basics, cryptography, ethical hacking, security defenses, and forensics. It covers current tools and techniques, and managing security risks.

To be successful in these areas, you'll get a background in programming and networking as well as basic knowledge of computer hardware and systems software.

Why Study Cybersecurity?

Hacking and cybercrimes are major problems for any organization. Our strong dependence on digital technologies calls for increased security. Because of these factors, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand.

The Cybersecurity program at Illinois State gives you practical, hands-on experience. You'll develop system and network defenses, and perform simulated attacks on computers to test their security. You also get exposure to computer forensics. This teaches you how to gather and preserve evidence from devices to use in a court of law.

Related Skills

• Ability to communicate well
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills
• Logical thinker
• Flexible thought process and ability to cope with constant change
• Strong organizational skills
• Good team member
• Strong understanding of computer languages and networking

Related Fields

• Cryptanalyst
• Cyber Crime Investigator
• Database Security Analyst
• Forensic Investigator
• Information Security Analysts
• Information Technology Consultant
• Malware Analyst
• Network Security Administrator
• Network Security Engineer
• Penetration Tester / White Hat Hacker
• Risk Analyst
• Security Analyst
• Security Architect
• Security Consultant
• Security Manager
• Security Software Developer
• Software Security Engineer
• Web Security Analyst
• Web Security Tester

Career Advising

Internship Coordinator

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Minimum GPA

2.3

Middle 50% GPA

2.56 - 3.4

Required Courses

None

Recommended Courses

• IT 168, Structured Problem Solving Using The Computer (preferably in Java)
• IT 178, Computer Application Programming, or IT 179, Introduction To Data Structures (preferably in Java)
• IT 250, Fundamentals of Information Assurance and Security
• IT 276, Data Communications

Without IT 168 in Java or both IT 168 and either 178 or 179 in any language, it is difficult to complete the program in 4 semesters even with an associate's degree.

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study (2018-2019 Catalog)

Academic Advising

Middle 50% GPA

2.56 - 3.4

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• Plan of Study

Application Period

Applications will be available year-round.

Application Information

Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.

Academic Advising