Cybersecurity

The Cybersecurity major is designed to prepare professionals in security and information assurance, including protecting systems and the data they hold.

The Cybersecurity major focuses on fundamentals of security, security policy, and implementing technical solutions to computer security problems. Beyond this, the student learns why data is so necessary to business functionality, and how to protect the critical infrastructures used in modern organizations.

The Cybersecurity major will be available starting in fall 2017.

Why Study Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity emphasizes securing data and the computer networks and systems that house it.

The degree prepares students in areas such as security fundamentals, cryptography, penetration testing, security defenses, and forensics. It focuses on the use of current tools and techniques, and on managing security risks. This requires familiarity with computer hardware, software, and programming, as well as networking fundamentals.

It also requires an understanding of business requirements and the value of company information.

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

• Chief Information Security Officer
• Computer Programmer
• Computer Systems Manager
• Computer Technical Support Coordinator
• Cryptanalyst
• Cyber Crime Investigator
• Database Administrator
• Database Security Analyst
• Electronic Commerce Developer
• Forensic Investigator
• Information Security Analysts
• Information Technology Consultant
• Malware Analyst
• Network Administrator
• 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
• Systems Analyst
• Technical Analyst
• 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.

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