SHSU Launches New Bridge to Cyber Program

SHSU Launches New Bridge to Cyber Program

As technology and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals is growing rapidly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there will be about 16,000 openings for information security analysts each year from 2024 to 2034. In response, the SHSU Department of Computer Science is introducing the Bridge to Cyber program to help prepare students for these in-demand careers.

The Bridge to Cyber program was created to welcome students from non-computing backgrounds interested in pursuing graduate studies in digital forensics and cybersecurity. By providing essential foundational knowledge, the program opens new pathways and makes these high-demand fields more accessible to a broader community of learners.

“Many qualified students from disciplines such as criminal justice and business are interested in cybersecurity careers but lack the computing background required for graduate study,” said Cihan Varol, program lead. “This program bridges that gap while helping employers meet the growing demand for professionals with interdisciplinary knowledge in cybersecurity and digital forensics.”

At the heart of the program are three bridge courses designed to support students from non-computing degree backgrounds as they prepare for graduate study: Quantitative Foundations of Computer Science, Computer Science Core Topics and Foundations of Cyber Security and Digital Forensics. These courses provide the essential knowledge and hands-on skills students need to thrive in the Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Master of Science in Cybersecurity programs.

“After completing the bridge program and earning a graduate degree, graduates can pursue careers in government, law enforcement and the private sector. By opening this new pathway for students from non-computing academic backgrounds, the program not only addresses workforce needs but also encourages collaboration across the university,” said Bing Zhou, department chair.

To learn more about the M.S. in Cybersecurity and the M.S. in Digital Forensics, explore the Department of Computer Science and visit cs.shsu.edu.