Information and Cybersecurity Operations (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Information and Cybersecurity Operations degree provides a comprehensive education in IT and cybersecurity, preparing students to protect and manage modern information systems. Through hands-on learning, students gain practical skills in safeguarding data, managing networks, using and training artificial intelligence, and responding to cyber threats, equipping them for careers in industries ranging from corporate IT to government and defense. Graduates are prepared for roles like Information Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, and Systems Administrator. Additionally, students will choose from select groups of courses focused on specialized areas or tracks. Specifically, students will select one of three tracks as part of their degree. A listing and description of these tracks can be found in the table below. These employer-driven, hands-on, interactive educational tracks equip students with cyber and networking skills required for positions in a wide range of companies. Track description Security Operations (SOC) Track The Security Operations (SOC) Track focuses on equipping students with the skills needed to protect and defend computer systems and networks against cyber threats. This track covers topics such as ethical hacking, advanced defense mechanisms, network security, and cloud security. Students learn to identify vulnerabilities, implement countermeasures, and respond to security incidents. Graduates of the Security Operations (SOC) Track are prepared for specialized roles such as Information Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, and Network Security Engineer, with expertise in safeguarding critical infrastructure across various industries. Cloud Computing Track Cloud computing or software services provided across the internet are ushering in a wave of new opportunities to help businesses become more flexible, efficient and agile. By providing infrastructures, platforms and software as a service, cloud computing allows users to access and implement important business and technology tools whenever and wherever they need. General Track The General Track in the Bachelor of Science in Information and Cybersecurity Operations program provides students with a broad and flexible education in IT and cybersecurity. This track allows students to choose from various courses in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital forensics, enabling them to build a well-rounded skill set. Graduates of the General Track are prepared for a wide range of roles in the IT and cybersecurity sectors, offering the flexibility to pursue careers in network security, systems administration, cybersecurity analysis, and more, depending on their chosen course mix. Apprenticeship Option - South Carolina Only To be successful in the IT field today, the industry requires that graduates have a degree, certifications, and work experience. The Apprenticeship Option for the Cybersecurity Track in the BS in Computer and Information Science program is intended for students with limited or no in-field work experience. The Program Director determines whether a student's education is best served through the Apprenticeship Option. If that is determined to be the case, then the Apprenticeship Option is considered required for graduation from the Information and Cybersecurity Operations program.