Information Security Center for Academic Excellence

The Information Security emphasis, an NSA-designated Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense program of study, will help you build a strong foundation in general computer science principles and apply it to cybersecurity, ethical hacking, network security and protection, and more. Western’s curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice to ensure you’ll not only understand core information security concepts, but also be able to apply them to practical projects. Western’s dedicated faculty will work one-on-one with you throughout the course of your studies, as well as help you create networking connections and prepare for a role in which you’ll assist in the important work of protecting data.

External Advisory Board

Western Colorado University’s Computer Science Major: Information Security Emphasis relies on an external advisory board to periodically vet and provide feedback on the program’s rigorous curriculum.  The external advisory board meets at least once per semester and consists of members from industry, academia, and government. The external advisory board currently includes: Christopher Ellis, PhD (freelance cybersecurity consultant), Mr. Owen Giddings (Oracle), Mr. Nick Gonzales (Raytheon), Mr. J.D. Nau (Regis University), and Mr. Claude Torres (ICR).  The most recent board meeting (Fall, 2023) reinforced the program’s commitment to balancing theory and practice; students should gain experience in current tools and technologies yet must have the theoretical foundation to adapt to an ever-changing threat landscape.

Institutional Cybersecurity Policies

To read Western’s institutional data protection and security policies, refer to section 3.12 of Western’s Employee Handbook for Professional Employees.