Program Overview
The PhD program in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, preparing them for leadership roles in research, education, and industry. The program emphasizes a rigorous foundation in computer science principles, specialized coursework, and research opportunities in various aspects of cybersecurity, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
The PhD program in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity aims to equip students with in-depth knowledge and skills in various aspects of cybersecurity and information assurance, including applied cryptography, computer and network security, computer forensics, data and information security, and software security. The program aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles in research, education, and industry within the cybersecurity domain.
Description:
The program emphasizes a rigorous foundation in computer science principles combined with specialized coursework and research opportunities in cybersecurity. Students benefit from a curriculum that covers:
- Systems: This area focuses on securing computer systems and networks, including operating systems, network protocols, and security architectures.
- Applications: This area explores the application of cybersecurity principles in various domains, such as software security, mobile security, and cloud security. The program culminates in a dissertation, requiring students to conduct original research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in cybersecurity.
Other:
The program is certified by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education and a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance - Research.
Outline:
Coursework:
- Required Core Areas (9 credit hours):
- Foundations (3 credit hours)
- Systems (3 credit hours)
- Applications (3 credit hours)
- Concentration (9 credit hours): Choose two from:
- CSE 539 Applied Cryptography (3 credit hours)
- CSE 545 Software Security (3 credit hours)
- CSE 548 Advanced Computer Network Security (3 credit hours)
- Research (18 credit hours):
- CSE 792 Research (18 credit hours)
- Electives and Additional Research (36 credit hours):
- Additional CSE 792 Research credit hours (up to 36 credit hours allowed beyond the required 18)
- Computer science courses (up to 18 credit hours of CSE 590 and CSE 790: Reading and Conference)
- Up to six credit hours of interdisciplinary electives in other academic units (subject to program chair approval)
Dissertation:
- CSE 799 Dissertation (12 credit hours)
Other:
- Students with a master's degree may be able to transfer up to 30 credit hours towards the PhD program.
- A maximum of three credit hours of 400-level coursework may be applied to the plan of study.
Assessment:
Dissertation:
The dissertation is the primary assessment tool, requiring students to demonstrate their research skills, knowledge, and ability to contribute original research to the field of cybersecurity.
Coursework:
Students are assessed through various methods, including exams, assignments, presentations, and projects. The specific assessment methods vary depending on the course.
Comprehensive Exam:
Students must pass a written comprehensive exam to demonstrate their mastery of the core concepts in cybersecurity.
Culminating Experience:
The dissertation defense serves as the culminating experience, where students present and defend their research findings to a committee of faculty experts.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes various teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, hands-on labs, and research projects. Smaller class sizes allow for personalized attention and interaction between students and faculty.
Faculty:
The program boasts a distinguished faculty with expertise in various areas of cybersecurity. Faculty members are actively involved in research and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers unique opportunities for students to engage in real-world cybersecurity challenges through hands-on projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in various sectors, including:
- Government agencies
- Private companies
- Research institutions
- Educational institutions
Career Examples:
- Computer science researcher
- Computer science security professor
- Data scientist engineer
- Machine learning, AI, or computer vision engineer
- Machine learning, AI, or computer vision scientist
Other:
STEM-OPT Extension:
International students on F-1 visas may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months to gain work experience in the U.S.
Accreditation:
The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and has additional accreditation from specialized accrediting agencies.
International Students:
The program welcomes international students and offers support services to help them adjust to life in the U.S.
