Computer Science with Cybersecurity Concentration, B.S.
Work on the cutting edge of technology and innovation in a rapidly growing career field.
As a computer science student, you have the opportunity to get a concentration in cybersecurity. This is the study of computer security, network management, encryption, traffic monitoring, intrusion detection and incident response management.
This cybersecurity concentration prepares you for a variety of careers in network defense and as a cybersecurity analyst. It also prepares you for continued education in masters, or doctoral programs, at other universities. The program has strong connections with graduate schools in our region and some students transfer into these programs after completing their undergraduate degrees, while other start careers in cybersecurity after graduation.
This program follows the U.S. government’s National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education () curriculum and the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology ().
In addition to the standard computer science courses focusing on computational science, operating systems, programming languages, computer architecture, system analysis and design, data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, students in the cybersecurity concentration take six courses in cyber-crime, governance, cyber forensics, network security, ethical hacking and computer security.
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Take the next step toward completing your B.S. in Computer Science degree at Ïã½¶´«Ã½.
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Major Requirements
Ïã½¶´«Ã½'s Computer Science program combines technical rigor with a liberal arts foundation, preparing students to thrive in a rapidly advancing digital world. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative and abstract reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinkingÌýand strong communication-key skills for success in today's tech-driven industries. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science equips students for careers in business, industry, educationÌýor further study in computer science, information systemsÌýand related fields. Courses strike a balance between theoretical foundations and real-world applications, covering topics such as algorithms, programming, systems design, data analyticsÌýand emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Students may customize their studies with electives in theoretical computer science or information systems, and have the option to pursue a concentration in Cybersecurity. This specialized track focuses on network security, encryption, intrusion detection, cyber forensicsÌýand ethical hacking, and aligns with the U.S. government's National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) frameworks. Graduates are well-prepared for a range of roles in areas including: Software Engineering, Systems and Database Administration, Web and Application Development, Network and Computer Security, Quality Assurance and Software Testing, Data Analytics and Machine Learning.
NOTE: For students wishing to double-major in Computer Science and Information Technology, required courses for both majors must be satisfied, and at least 15 unique credit hours must be earned in the second major.
Honors
Students majoring in Computer Science who are judged qualified by the faculty may, upon invitation, elect to pursue honors work in Computer Science. To graduate "With Honors inÌýComputer Science" students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum major GPA of 3.2. In addition, they must complete twelve credits of honors work in Computer Science, including an acceptable senior project, complete an original thesis to be submitted for approval of the facultyÌýand pass an oral defense of the research.
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General Education Requirements (37 hours)
ÌýGraduation Requirements (4 hours)
- Technical Requirements (15 hours)
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Major Requirements (55-56 hours)
- CSC 117Ìý-ÌýIntro to Cybersecurity
- CSC 141Ìý-ÌýIntroduction to Java Programming
- CSC 150Ìý-ÌýComputer Science I
- CSC 212Ìý-ÌýComputer Architecture
- CSC 217Ìý-ÌýCybercrime and Governance
- CSC 227Ìý-ÌýNetwork and System Security
- CSC 250Ìý-ÌýComputer Science II
- CSC 260Ìý-ÌýAnalysis of Algorithms
- CSC 280Ìý-ÌýPrinciples of Programming Languages
- CSC 312Ìý-ÌýOperating Systems
- CSC 334Ìý-ÌýComputer Networks
- CSC 350Ìý-ÌýDatabase Management
- CSC 386Ìý-ÌýEthical Hacking Project
- CSC 400Ìý-ÌýSystems Analysis and Software Engineering
- CSC 434Ìý-ÌýComputer Security
- CSC 460Ìý-ÌýCapstone Project
- CSC 475Ìý-ÌýComprehensive Senior Exam
Choose two courses from the following (6-7 Hours):- CSC 163Ìý-ÌýIntroduction to Visual Basic
- CSC 210Ìý-ÌýEthical Issues in Information Technology
- CSC 220Ìý-ÌýIntroduction to Web Design
- CSC 320Ìý-ÌýClient-side Web Programming
- CSC 341Ìý-ÌýApplication Development with Java
- CSC 420Ìý-ÌýServer-side Web Programming
- CSC 491Ìý-ÌýProject Management
- CSC 498Ìý-ÌýSenior Honors Research
- CSC 499Ìý-ÌýSenior Honors Thesis
- MAT 166Ìý-ÌýCalculus II
- MAT 250Ìý-ÌýDiscrete Mathematics II
- MAT 280Ìý-ÌýLinear Algebra
- MAT 415Ìý-ÌýApplied Statistical Methods
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General Elective Credits
General Electives (8-9 hours) as needed to reach 120 hours overall.
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Total Credit Hours - Minimum 120 hours
On occasion, technical and/or program requirements may also meet specific General EducationÌýrequirements. Please confer with your program advisor to determine which courses, if any, may be counted accordingly.
All bachelor's degree programs at Lenoir-Rhyne require at least 120 credit hours. If, in combination, General Education, technical, and program requirements do not generate at least 120Ìýhours, additional credits must be completed to achieve 120Ìýhours. These classes may be general electives, or a student may complete a minor or additional major.
Admission & Financial Aid
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Undergraduate AdmissionOur admission team is here to assist you in making the college search process as easy as possible. Our counselors are happy to provide the information and guidance you need to submit your application, apply for financial aid and scholarships, visit and tour our campus.
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Financial AidWe recognize that paying for college is a top concern for students and their families. Our financial aid staff is here to provide you with financial aid options and assistance to help you achieve your educational goals.
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