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Bachelor of Science (B.S.)/Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Computer Science: Cybersecurity

The need for computer scientists with cybersecurity degree specializations has never been greater in a world that’s increasingly interconnected. A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity from Bowling Green State University equips you with the knowledge to serve as a guardian for valuable intellectual property, personal information, financial data and the digital systems that keep our communities safe.  

BGSU offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in the cybersecurity specialization for computer science.  

Cybersecurity isn't just about firewalls and passwords. You may be working with code, but you’re safeguarding people’s lives, livelihoods and futures. You will develop a deep technical understanding and strategic mindset to anticipate, prevent and respond to sophisticated cyberattacks or threats – for businesses, government agencies and individuals.  

Cybersecurity focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and understanding the techniques used by cybercriminals in order to design systems that can resist attacks. On the other side of that coin, students learn the fundamentals of digital forensics to respond swiftly and effectively when breaches do occur.

Why study computer science and cybersecurity at BGSU in Ohio?

  • Leaders in the field. In 1969, BGSU became the first university in Ohio to offer an undergraduate computer science major. It’s still the only one to have received a Program Excellence Award from the Ohio Board of Regents.
  • First-rate faculty. BGSU computer science faculty foster a collaborative, student-centered learning environment. All computer science major classes are intentionally kept small.
  • State-of-the-art facilities. Our BGSU Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Lab is equipped with industry-standard tools and technology. This advanced lab provides opportunities to engage in realistic cybersecurity scenarios – from forensic investigations to vulnerability assessments.
  • Curriculum that’s ahead of the curve. Cybersecurity is a field that’s constantly evolving. The best cybersecurity degree program is one that keeps pace with the latest in technology, ethics, policy and industry standards. And we do.
  • Unparalleled hands-on learning. Cybersecurity is a practical field, so lab-based courses that offer real-world experience in areas like penetration testing, network security and cryptography are essential. 
  • Industry connections. Take advantage of our strong ties to employers in the tech industry, government agencies and cybersecurity organizations. They can open doors for internships, job placements and networking. BGSU computer science majors have interned at big-name companies with robust IT and software divisions, such as American Greetings, Eaton, EY, Marathon Petroleum Corp., Owens Corning, Progressive Corporation and Nationwide Mutual Insurance.
  • BGSU computer science clubs. 
    • Join the ACM Student Chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery, the world’s largest computing society, for interactive coding events, industry conferences and social activities. 
    • Bowling Green Women in Computing (BGWIC or BGSU ACM-W Student Chapter) offers professional development, social networking and community engagement. 
    • The Linux Club welcomes students passionate about open-source software. 
    • Capture the Flag (CTF) Club offers exciting cybersecurity challenges and competitions. 
  • BGSU graduate option. Our Master of Science in computer science blends rigorous coursework, hands-on projects and research opportunities. It equips you with in-depth knowledge and advanced skills to excel in today’s rapidly-evolving tech landscape.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3% employment growth for the cybersecurity field by 2030.  

Career – what can you do with a computer science cybersecurity degree?

Cyberattacks have the potential to cripple economies, disrupt essential services and steal personal data. The work of cybersecurity professionals is vital to maintaining the trust and security of our global systems.  

The financial industry, for instance, counts on highly secure systems to protect the funds and sensitive data of their customers. Just one vulnerability could lead to millions of dollars in losses – not to mention erosion of customer trust. With a cybersecurity degree from Bowling Green State University, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to prevent such catastrophes.  

Cybersecurity is mission critical for national security as well. Governments and military organizations are constantly facing down cyber threats, protecting classified information and defending critical infrastructure, such as power grids, transportation systems and communication networks.  

Career paths

  • Cybersecurity analyst
  • Computer forensics investigator
  • Information security analyst
  • Cyber crime investigator
  • Digital security engineer
  • Ethical hacker 
  • Security consultant
  • Cryptographer
  • Chief information security officer (CISO)

Quick Facts from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

View average salaries

The median annual wage for workers in computer and information technology is more than double the median annual wage for all occupations.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Computer science: cybersecurity – B.S. vs. B.A.

Both degree tracks lead to high-demand, high-salary positions. They just have slightly different focuses.

B.S. in computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity – This is the more technical and mathematically intensive degree track. It emphasizes the core scientific and computational aspects of computer science, which are directly applicable to cybersecurity.

Expect more courses in algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, cryptography and network security. The B.S. is geared toward students seeking deep technical expertise for direct involvement in creating, implementing or analyzing cybersecurity solutions.

B.A. in computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity – This degree is broader. It includes technical aspects of cybersecurity and incorporates courses from additional disciplines like business, law, political science and communications. The B.A. is a more flexible degree track that students can tailor to include related fields of study. Many go on to work as project managers, compliance officers or cybersecurity policy advisors.

Curriculum

The BGSU curriculum for the cybersecurity specialization is aligned with the cybersecurity and digital forensics standards of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).   

Computer science majors with the cybersecurity specialization will learn to help corporate and criminal justice organizations shield against and respond to attacks. They’ll know how to:

  • Identify cybersecurity vulnerabilities
  • Safeguard networks and information systems against breaches 
  • Securely provide critical network services to diverse clients
  • Collect potential evidence
  • Conduct forensic data analysis 
  • Adhere to reporting protocols  

Computer science majors must complete at least one co-op or internship before graduation. The BGSU Computer Science Department has connections with many major regional employers, where students do practical computer-related work as full-time or part-time paid interns.  

The Computer Science Department also collaborates with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation facility on the BGSU campus to provide career-relevant learning and internship opportunities.

Required courses B.A. Required courses B.S.

computer science DSC02535

Sample courses

  • Programming (Fundamentals & Intermediate)
  • Fundamentals of Cybersecurity Awareness
  • Computer and Network Security
  • Computer and Mobile Forensics
  • Computer Organization
  • Cyber Defense Practices
  • Professional and Societal Issues in Computing

BGSU College of Arts and Sciences

The bachelor’s degree in computer science with cybersecurity specialization is part of the Department of Computer Science in the BGSU College of Arts and Sciences.

Updated: 12/11/2024 09:26AM