Cybersecurity (BS)

About

In a data-driven world, safeguarding digital assets and information is increasingly critical to public, private and nonprofit organizations. App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Cybersecurity will prepare you for in-demand roles in the information security sector by providing you with a strong business background, communication skills and comprehensive cybersecurity expertise.

Through the program’s comprehensive curriculum, which combines cybersecurity and business courses, you will graduate ready to take on the world’s most challenging cybersecurity issues. You will become skilled in principles of IT security, such as data management, digital forensics and hacking countermeasures, as well as web and cloud security. From a business perspective, you will explore computer information systems, economics, finance, management, marketing, supply chain and global issues, business communications and more to gain a better understanding of how businesses function.

Cybersecurity experts are in high demand: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for information security analysts is projected to grow 32% over the next decade, with a median annual salary of more than $120,000.

App State’s Walker College of Business is accredited by AACSB International, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This distinction is held by fewer than 6% of all business schools.

People

App State Faculty: Chris Taylor ’09 ’11

“Some organizations spend a lot of time and money on their technology but have a cheap door lock to protect their secure areas. It is our job to expose all vulnerabilities, including physical access. We use lock-picking tools in the classroom so students can see how they work firsthand and understand the importance of overall security within an organization.”
—Chris Taylor, senior lecturer of computer information systems and cybersecurity program coordinator

Courses

Program of Study
- Students pursuing this major explore Ethical Hacking and Countermeasures, AI, Business Systems and Cybersecurity, Managing Security and more.

Related Programs

Minors

A minor is not required.

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Degrees

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Costs and Aid

Location

Boone campus
Hickory campus

Careers

Information Security Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
Chief Information Security Officer
Security Architect
Cyber Policy and Strategy Planner
Information Technology Auditor
Cyber Defense Forensics Analyst
Security Systems Administrator
Computer Network Defense Analyst
Network Engineer

Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Contacts

Dr. Scott Hunsinger
Department Chair
hunsingerds@3588612.com
828-262-2034

Chris Taylor
Program Coordinator
taylorcw@3588612.com
828-262-7477

Walker College of Business

Department of Computer Information Systems
At Appalachian State University, computer information systems (CIS) students gain valuable professional skills and capabilities that prepare them for careers in a wide variety of technology-related industries. Students learn how to successfully interface between the technical and management aspects within organizations. Part of the Walker College of Business, the Department of Computer Information Systems offers one of 10 undergraduate business majors at Appalachian, all of which promote solid business acumen and technical fundamentals. Learn more at cis.3588612.com.