COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and combines cybersecurity, computing, engineering, mathematics, psychology, and risk management to prepare students for careers in information security and cyber defense. Students must complete the university’s General Education requirements and College of Engineering requirements while maintaining a grade of C- or better in all Applied Computing (AC) and Computer Science (CS) prerequisite courses. The curriculum includes foundational studies in psychology, logic, ethics, economics, mathematics, and physics, providing students with a broad understanding of technology, human behavior, and decision-making. Core technical courses focus on cybersecurity awareness, applied computing, programming and scripting, networking, web application and database development, cyber operations, ethical hacking, digital forensics, cyber-physical systems, cyber risk management, web application security, Linux operating systems, digital design, facilities management, and hardware security. Students also complete a two-semester senior project that allows them to apply their knowledge to real-world cybersecurity challenges and develop practical problem-solving skills. The program emphasizes both technical and human aspects of cybersecurity through courses in social psychology, human factors psychology, and human threats to cybersecurity, helping students understand how people influence security systems and cyber risks. In addition, students complete 18 credit hours of technical electives, with at least half selected from engineering disciplines. These electives allow students to explore specialized areas such as cybercrime, homeland security, intelligence processes, terrorism studies, emergency management, risk assessment, cognitive psychology, geographic information systems, programming, data structures, leadership, and accessible design. Through a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, applied projects, and interdisciplinary learning, students gain expertise in securing computer systems, identifying vulnerabilities, analyzing threats, managing cyber risks, and investigating digital crimes. Graduates are well prepared for careers as cybersecurity analysts, information security specialists, digital forensic investigators, network security professionals, cyber operations specialists, and risk management consultants, as well as for advanced studies and professional certifications in cybersecurity and related technology fields.