The University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) is addressing one of the most critical issues in cybersecurity by launching new undergraduate and master’s degree programs in cybersecurity.

The UMSL degrees will equip graduates to pursue high-demand positions such as cybersecurity specialists, cyber defense analysts, cyber defense incident responders, information security analysts, vulnerability assessment analysts, security architects and a variety of other vital roles.

“There is an urgent need for high-quality and high-impact cybersecurity programs,” UMSL’s Cybersecurity Institute Director Shaji Khan said. “Our multidisciplinary degrees are student centric, dedicated to talent development and delivered through applied and industry-relevant learning experiences. UMSL graduates will have the education and training necessary to tackle some of the most significant challenges impacting our country.”

The bachelor and master of science in cybersecurity programs were approved earlier this month by the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education. Student admissions applications open June 24 for fall 2019 enrollment.

“The University of Missouri–St. Louis is excited to launch these necessary degrees,” Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Kristin Sobolik said. “Our established cybersecurity minors and certificates have a proven record of success as demonstrated by their outstanding graduates and competitive designations from the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. These new degree programs will build upon that momentum and help transform the cybersecurity workforce in St. Louis and beyond.”