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.

The B.S. in Cybersecurity is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Defense.

National Centers of Academic Excellence logo.

Upon completion of the Cybersecurity degree program at the University of Southern Maine the student will be able to:

  • Evaluate network protection neds and establish a security posture.
  • Analyze networks for vulnerabilities and propose/implement countermeasures.
  • Compose effective communications utilizing many modalities and industry terminology.
  • Demonstrate high ethical standards.
  • Coordinate with team members to achieve a common task.

Requirements

All students must meet University Core Curriculum requirements and additional departmental requirements. Specific requirements for the B.S. in Cybersecurity degree program can be found in our Academic Catalog. A minimum of 15 credit hours or 5 courses must be taken in the Department of Technology.

Minimum number of credits required for the degree: 120

The USM Core Curriculum is a coherent, integrative, and rigorous liberal education that enables our graduates to be world-minded, intentional, life-long learners and captures your general education degree requirements. 

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.

Student Information

  • University-Wide Scholarships
  • Moore Technology Award
    • Each spring, the Department of Technology faculty selects one student to be awarded the William H. Moore Award.   The student is chosen by faculty in a nomination and voting process.  This award is a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Hollis W. Moore, teachers in the Amherst, Massachusetts public school system.  It is named for their son, Dr. William H. Moore, who is a Professor Emeritus with the Department of Technology.   It is given annually to a senior Technology major, for excellence in the program.
  • William & Laura Hooper Scholarship
    • This scholarship is for students in Technology majors. Students must be enrolled in at least half-time status (6 credit hours per semester) Minimum GPA of 3.0 Must have a completed FAFSA on file.
  • Michael E. Dubyak Scholarship
    • This scholarship was created at the University of Southern Maine in 2014 to provide financial support for students majoring in mathematics, information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, technology management, or statistics.
    • Eligible students must be a Maine resident who is majoring in mathematics, information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, technology management, or statistics. This can also include students interested in teaching in any aforementioned areas.
  • NiSourse Charitable Foundation Scholarship
    • Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science/Policy, or Technology major
    • Enrolled at least part-time
    • Completed 30 credit hours, 15 at USM
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • WEX Endowed Scholarship
    • This scholarship was created at the University of Southern Maine in 2014 to provide financial support for students majoring in mathematics, information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, technology management, or statistics.
    • Eligible students must be a Maine resident who is majoring in mathematics, information technology, computer science, cybersecurity, technology management, or statistics. This can also include students interested in teaching in any aforementioned areas.
  • DoT Outstanding Student Award
    • Each spring, the faculty of Technology selects one student to be selected as the Department of Technology – Outstanding Student of the Year.  The student is chosen by faculty in a nomination and voting process.  The criteria for the award include very high level of academic achievement, service to other students, and ethics of character beyond the classroom.