When you connect to the Internet, you open yourself to vulnerabilities that need to be secured. You can help create that security through AU’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity & Criminal Justice. This interdisciplinary program combines the digital world with the principles of law enforcement and investigation. It prepares you to enter a myriad of cybersecurity careers where you can be at the leading edge of protecting people, cities, states and the country.
Why AU?
Our Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity & Criminal Justice differs from programs at other universities in the following ways:
- Combines classes from two relevant and related majors: Cybersecurity and Criminal Justice
- AU’s professors have experience as cybersecurity experts and leaders.
- Faculty members carry crucial certifications, such as CISSP, CCSP and CEH.
- A dedicated cybersecurity lab
- A cybersecurity advisory board of industry experts to mentor students
- Christian mission
Coursework
The Cybersecurity & Criminal Justice program requires 123 hours of coursework. Here are a sample of the classes you’ll take:
- Constitutional Law: Build your foundation as a law enforcement specialist by studying the scope and reach of the Constitution.
- Digital Forensics: Learn how to search for digital clues that signal past or current crimes, capture the information, copy it, and unravel what happened.
- Ethical Hacking: Sharpen your ability to probe systems for weaknesses, find the cracks and then create a solution to protect the vulnerabilities.
Career Outlook
Industries ranging from banking to energy and law enforcement to national security are looking for well-trained graduates to join their ranks in protecting the security of your fellow men and women around the world. You can work in a variety of organizations that hire cybersecurity professionals. Other industries that hire cybersecurity pros include finance, retail, healthcare, criminal investigations, military/defense, technology, public utilities, consulting and many others.
Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to pursue the following cybersecurity positions and fields:
- Cybersecurity analyst: $98,350*
- Information security management: $115,000
- Digital forensics: $85,000
- Cybersecurity advisor: $100,000
- Pen/penetration testing: $102,000
In addition to being ready for the workforce, as a Cybersecurity & Criminal Justice major, you’ll be prepared for graduate study, including pursuit of a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Cyber Intelligence, an MBA, or advanced studies in Cyber Law.
*Recent national median salaries sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics and Cyberseek.org