NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College has once again achieved a notable accolade in the realm of cybersecurity education, as its Cybersecurity degree program has been redesignated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This esteemed recognition, valid through October 2029, underscores the college’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a robust educational framework that equips students with critical skills in the fast-paced domain of cybersecurity.
The CAE-CD designation is awarded to educational institutions that meet stringent academic and organizational criteria set by the NSA and DHS, highlighting Cecil College’s adherence to high-quality standards in cyber defense education. This redesignation not only affirms the institution’s commitment to cybersecurity excellence but also emphasizes the importance of comprehensive educational strategies in preparing students for pivotal roles in safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure.
“This redesignation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense reflects our dedication to excellence in cybersecurity education,” affirmed Dr. Mary Way Bolt, President of Cecil College. Her sentiments are echoed by the cybersecurity faculty and administration, who have collectively contributed to maintaining the program’s esteemed status.
The significance of this designation is particularly profound for two-year community colleges, as it certifies the curriculum’s relevance and rigor in graduating students who are well-prepared to counteract increasing cybersecurity threats. The process of obtaining this designation necessitates demonstrating a solid academic foundation, faculty expertise, and a comprehensive support system for students, alongside opportunities for hands-on learning and industry collaboration.
Dr. James Morgan, professor of cybersecurity and principal author of the CAE-CD application, expressed enthusiasm for the program’s future. “Our program is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this critical field, and we are excited about the opportunities this designation brings for our students,” he remarked.
Students enrolled in the CAE-CD designated program at Cecil College are poised to benefit significantly from this recognition. The designation enhances their educational experience by providing access to scholarships, internships, and career opportunities in both government and private sectors. Furthermore, students gain the advantage of participating in national cybersecurity competitions and engaging in collaborative research projects. Graduates often receive preferential consideration for cybersecurity roles, as the CAE-CD credential signifies their readiness to address real-world challenges in cyber defense.
Cecil College’s Vice President of Academics, Dr. Christy Dryer, acknowledged the efforts of the faculty in achieving this milestone. “This not only showcases Cecil College’s pursuit of excellence, it also provides opportunities for our students related to employment or transfer. Employers and four-year partners will recognize that Cecil College students meet best practice standards upon completing their cybersecurity education,” she noted.
The redesignation as a Center of Academic Excellence solidifies Cecil College’s position as a leader in cybersecurity education, offering students a pathway to meaningful careers in an increasingly digital world.
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