Computer Science, Cybersecurity Emphasis

A cybersecurity degree from OBU will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex and ever-changing world of digital security. The program combines a strong foundation in computer science with an in-depth exploration of cybersecurity principles, technologies, and systems. Our customized curriculum, taught by faculty mentors, will prepare you for the crucial role of safeguarding sensitive data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

Benefits of an OBU Cybersecurity Degree

A Deeper Approach to Learning

At OBU, the practical skills and theory taught in our cybersecurity program are accompanied by a rigorous liberal arts education that promotes critical thinking, intellectual growth, and a broadened view of our past and present world.

We recognize that cybersecurity is more than a technical problem. It involves protocols and people. Through our faith-integrated instruction, you will be challenged to think deeper about the motives, goals and desire of those who operate and seek to exploit technology. You will gain a deepened sense of reasoning, insight, and knowledge as you strategize how to protect crucial electronic information, applications and networks.

Partnership with OBU Engineering

OBU’s cybersecurity program has a unique partnership with the university’s engineering program incorporating aspects of the aerospace industry. This partnership will provide an avenue to focus on security of cyber physical systems (CPS). It offers a network of interacting elements with physical inputs and outputs which can be recognized through such devices as automatic avionics or an autonomous or unmanned drone. The collaboration between these two academic programs offers you enriched learning opportunities and project-based course work.

Incredible Education, Affordable Cost.

OBU provides a minimum $10,000 per year scholarship to every incoming first-time freshman and $8,000 to every incoming transfer student. And you could qualify for even more financial aid! Many of our students also receive money through federal Pell grants and OBU Bison Grants.

To get an estimate of what your cost to attend OBU might be, please check out our Net Price Calculator. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with how affordable an OBU education really is. Especially considering the incredible academic quality, personal mentor relationships with faculty and staff, and strong Christian commitment you will experience at OBU. You won’t find an experience like this anywhere else!

Program Information

Robust Curriculum

OBU’s cybersecurity degree is built upon a strong foundation of both data science and data analytics. The cybersecurity emphasis will further broaden your understanding in areas such as network security, digital forensic principles and practices, information assurance, applied cryptography and more. You will learn the important role of collecting, cleaning and modeling data for effective results. Our comprehensive theory, combined with hands-on training, will successfully prepare you to address real-world challenges in the cyber field.

Faculty Mentors

As a cybersecurity student at OBU, you’ll be taught by faculty who have years of professional and specialty experience. Our small class sizes allow professors to get to know you personally. Their influence and investment can make a positive impact on your success. OBU faculty are mentors, encouragers, and role models who support both your intellectual and spiritual development. Their influence often continues well after your time on Bison Hill.

Faith Integration

As a Christian liberal arts university, OBU is dedicated to the pursuit of raising up the next generation of technology professionals with the knowledge and experience needed to bring about positive change in the world. This Christian perspective shapes your experiences as a student and prepares you to enter the business world with a desire to serve others well.

Job Opportunities and Outcomes

Cybersecurity professionals work in nearly every sector and industry, both large and small. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 35% year-over-year growth in information security analyst jobs through 2031. As cyber threats increase and become more complex, there is an estimated need for as many as 3.4 million workers in coming years according to the 2022 Cybersecurity Workforce Study.

Jobs in the cybersecurity field vary in many capacities and include that of chief information security officer, cryptographer, network administrator, security engineer, cybersecurity engineer, ethical hacker, digital forensic analyst, to name a few.