JBU to offer Master of Science in Cybersecurity

John Brown University will launch an online master’s degree program in cybersecurity in spring 2018 in affiliation with the university’s Graduate School and Department of Engineering.

“This master’s degree in cybersecurity is an important new program for JBU,” said Richard Ellis, dean of the graduate school. “The curriculum will equip students to meet the growing demand for cybersecurity experts in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.”

The program was designed with input from network security professionals in major corporations located in Northwest Arkansas. The professionals reported a shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts in the region and the need to equip IT personnel with the advanced skills required to protect critical systems and networks.

“The Cybersecurity program will provide a balance of technical skills and policy, which is necessary to best comply with continually-changing regulations,” said Steve Helms, director of cybersecurity programs. “Students will gain a comprehensive knowledge of tools and techniques as well as an understanding of legal issues and risks to best equip them as cybersecurity professionals.”

As a graduate degree, the M.S. in Cybersecurity will admit students who have foundational knowledge of computer systems and networks, then deepen their understanding of digital threats, laws, compliance and methods to secure the assets that guard private information. The program was recently approved by the university’s regional accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission.

The new program will expand JBU’s Graduate School offerings, which include master’s degrees in business, counseling, teacher education, higher education and design.

Additional information about graduate programs at John Brown University may be found at www.jbu. edu/grad.