Dec 05, 2025  
2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog

Cybersecurity, B.S.


As the Internet increasingly becomes a tool in both corporate and government arenas, the need for cybersecurity increases as well, and with it, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals. One of the fastest growing job markets, demand for cybersecurity professionals over the past five years grew 3.5 times faster than demand for other IT jobs and about 12 times faster than all other jobs. According to the Department of Labor, demand for computer security specialists will grow as businesses and governments invest more heavily in cybersecurity to protect vital computer networks and electronic infrastructures from attack.

The B.S. degree in cybersecurity (BSCS) is relevant to the rapidly changing landscape of information security. The techniques, policies, operational procedures, and technologies that secure and defend information systems will be covered. Hands-on learning is an integral part of the B.S. in cybersecurity. This degree is designed to produce graduates with the necessary skills for employment in digital security positions. Students who earn this degree are knowledgeable in evaluating, analyzing and posturing a secure digital network. They are practiced in network monitoring and countermeasure implementation. They are skilled in collaborative projects and communications as well as acutely aware of and abide by ethical standards. Students gain experience in defending cybersecurity attacks in a production environment through internships as well as in simulation exercises. This affords students the opportunity to develop skills that allow them to have an immediate impact in the workplace.

Program Requirements


  • Minimum number of credits (exclusive of the University’s Core Curriculum) required for the Cybersecurity major: 97.
  • Minimum grade requirement for major courses listed below: D-.

Technical Electives: COS or CYB or ITT (12 credits)


General Electives (8 credits)


Major Courses that Satisfy Core Requirements


Students are encouraged to explore Core courses that also count towards their major or minor. Courses listed below are part of this major and also satisfy University Core Curriculum requirements. Course lists that satisfy each requirement can be found on the Core Curriculum webpage.

 

USM Core Requirements


Students must complete all Core and degree requirements as part of the Graduation Requirements. For more information, see Academic Policies.

The USM Core Curriculum provides a coherent, integrative, and rigorous liberal arts education that fulfills general education requirements. It is designed to help students become globally aware, purposeful, and lifelong learners.

Please Note: Core requirements may be part of your major and/or minor, and Core may have been fulfilled with transfer credit. Please consult your MaineStreet Degree Progress Report (DPR) and review your degree progress with your Advisor.  For additional information, access the USM Core webpage.