Utah Tech University is enhancing its educational offerings by introducing a new Bachelor of Science degree in cybersecurity, alongside certificate programs in cybersecurity and cyber supervisory control and data acquisition. This initiative aims to address the increasing global demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.
The St. George-based institution has responded to a significant gap in the labor market, with jobs for cybersecurity and information security analysts projected to grow by an impressive 33% over the next decade, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual wage for these positions is nearly $125,000, making cybersecurity a lucrative career path.
Joe Francom, chair of the Computing Department, emphasized the urgency of this expansion: “As digital threats are becoming more commonplace, so is the need to respond and mitigate those threats. The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is outpacing supply.” He expressed enthusiasm for providing students with a practical focus that prepares them for success in the workforce.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
Utah Tech’s new offerings are part of a broader movement within Utah’s public higher education system to meet the rising demand for cybersecurity experts. Institutions such as Utah Valley University, Weber State University, and Southern Utah University have also initiated similar programs. This collaboration among schools highlights a collective effort to bolster the state’s workforce in this critical field.
The Bachelor of Science program at Utah Tech will cover essential topics including ethical hacking, cloud security, and cyber law. The university anticipates enrolling 35 students by the third year of the program. Additionally, the Cyber-SCADA certificate will focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure, such as power plants and water systems, which are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks.
In support of these initiatives, the state awarded Utah Tech more than $300,000 from the Talent Ready Utah program. This funding will facilitate faculty hiring, curriculum development, marketing, and equipment acquisition. “The growing demand for cybersecurity talent makes programs like these essential,” noted Aaron Davis, dean of the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. “We’re grateful to Talent Ready Utah for funding this high-impact initiative, which allows us to prepare students for critical, high-paying careers that protect infrastructure, businesses, and communities.”
Industry Collaboration and Hands-On Learning
As part of the cybersecurity expansion, Utah Tech is hiring two new faculty members to enhance the program’s offerings. The region is becoming a hub for high-paying cybersecurity positions, with companies like Strider Technologies based in South Jordan, Utah, leading the charge in tech security.
Utah Tech’s programs are designed to provide students with stackable credentials and career-focused pathways, including access to potential internships and industry collaborations. The emphasis on practical experience is crucial in a field that evolves rapidly and requires professionals to stay ahead of emerging threats.
Utah Valley University’s Center for National Security Studies further exemplifies the commitment to cybersecurity education in the state. Established in 2016, the center has expanded significantly, providing hands-on technical training in national security and intelligence. Its curriculum is continuously updated to reflect the latest developments in cybersecurity, ensuring students receive relevant and timely education.
With a growing alumni community, the center also fosters essential networking and mentoring opportunities, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in both public and private sectors.
The push for expanded cybersecurity education in Utah reflects a proactive approach to addressing the global challenges of digital security. By equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge, institutions like Utah Tech University are positioning themselves, and their graduates, for success in a rapidly evolving job market.
