Why this certificate?

The Cyber Defense Undergraduate Certificate, offered through the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, is available to both degree and non-degree-seeking students. The certificate prepares students to analyze, develop, investigate, protect, and defend computer and information systems.

You are eligible to apply if...

• Applicants must have a strong foundation in CSSE (or equivalent courses):
  • COMP 1210 Fundamentals of Computing I
  • COMP 2210 Fundamentals of Coding I
  • COMP 3220 Principles of Programming Languages
  • COMP 3270 Introduction to Algorithms
  • COMP 3500 Introduction to Operating Systems
  • COMP 3700 Software Modeling and Design
  • COMP 4320 Introduction to Computer Networks
  • COMP 4370 Computer Ethics
  • COMP 5120 Database Systems 
  • COMP 4300 Computer Architecture
• Applications for the Cyber Defense Undergraduate Certificate program are considered on a competitive basis.
• Minumum GPA requirements are not advertised because the admissions committee uses a holistic approach when reviewing a candidate's application package.

Program Requirements

• Complete the following six courses (15 credit hours) in computer science and software engineering:
  • COMP 5350 Digital Forensics  
  • COMP 5370 Computer and Network Security 
  • COMP 5530 Secure Cloud Computing
  • COMP 5700 Secure Software Process
  • COMP 5830 Cyber Threats and Countermeasures

What can you expect?

• Students who complete the undergraduate certificate should gain an understanding of fundamentals of cybersecurity.
• Students will learn to identify prevalent cybersecurity threats, threat models (such as Man-in-the-Middle), and canonical defenses.
• Students will be able to identify, assess, and defend against cybersecurity threats; develop defendable and resilient network and software mechanisms; and detect and investigate cybersecurity breaches.
• Students will learn techniques for gathering and preserving digital forensic evidence relating to a cyber event.
• Students will build on their existing foundation in computer science (e.g., algorithms, operating systems, computer architectures, and ethics) and have the ability to leverage this knowledge for a deeper understanding of cybersecurity.
• Students will communicate cybersecurity issues effectively.
• Students will have the ability to apply their cybersecurity capabilities in an integrated manner to address specific cybersecurity problems.

Applying for the Cyber Defense Undergraduate Certificate

• Contact Clint Lovelace, manager of academic programs in the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, at jcl0014@auburn.edu or 334.844.6313.