How Small Colleges Can Keep Pace with a Changing Cybersecurity Landscape

Introduction

The cybersecurity field is booming with tremendous job growth and lucrative career opportunities for graduates. As the digital landscape evolves rapidly, it's crucial that cybersecurity higher education curriculum keeps pace, especially for small colleges, in order to remain competitive. That's why we've undertaken a comprehensive review and update of the Rize Cybersecurity program, ensuring students are prepared for the realities of today's job market.

The Cybersecurity Job Market is on Fire (In a Good Way)

If you're wondering whether cybersecurity is a smart career path for students, the numbers speak for themselves. Over the last four years, cybersecurity jobs have increased by 30% - that's three times the average job growth rate. Salaries are equally impressive, ranging from $70,000 to $182,000, with even entry-level positions offering median salaries around $80,000 according to Lightcast.

It's no surprise then that student interest in cybersecurity programs has skyrocketed. Bachelor's degree completions in the field have grown by a staggering 600% over the past decade according to data from Lightcast. Yet despite this growth, we're still facing a significant skills gap. For every 100 open cybersecurity jobs, there are only 83 qualified workers to fill them according to Cyberseek.

Keeping Pace with a Changing Landscape

The cybersecurity field is constantly evolving, with new challenges emerging from AI, machine learning, IoT, remote work, and changing regulations. To ensure Rize Cybersecurity curriculum remains cutting-edge, we've implemented a rigorous review process that incorporates input from academic experts, industry professionals, and our partner institutions.

Key Enhancements to the Cybersecurity Program

Our updated curriculum builds on the strengths of our existing program while addressing key areas for improvement:

1. Closer alignment with industry frameworks like NIST and MITRE ATT&CK
2. Increased coverage of enterprise tools like Splunk, Wireshark, and cloud platforms
3. Greater emphasis on soft skills, including communication and ethical decision-making
4. Two new courses: a career navigation course and a capstone project
5. Other updates to existing courses to reflect current industry needs

Hands-On Learning for Real-World Readiness

As part of the program updates, we've introduced exciting new assignments that give students practical experience with industry-relevant tools and scenarios. For example:

• An encryption code-breaking exercise where students create and crack each other's ciphers
• A data breach analysis simulation using real system logs and Linux terminal commands
• Virtual job simulations that mimic day-to-day tasks of cybersecurity professionals

We've also aligned the curriculum with in-demand industry certifications like CompTIA Security+ and GIAC Security Essentials, giving students a leg up in the job market.

Navigating the Cybersecurity Career Landscape

Our new career navigation course is a game-changer for students. It guides them through exploring cybersecurity roles, developing a personalized skill development plan, and mastering the job application process. By the end of the course, students will have a polished resume, LinkedIn profile, and interview preparation under their belts, specific to the cybersecurity field.

Implementing the New Curriculum

We're committed to making the transition to this updated curriculum as smooth as possible for our partner institutions. To help partner institutions implement these changes, the Rize team is providing:

1. Detailed documentation outlining all changes and rationale.
2. A proposed rollout plan for current and new students.
3. Support from the Partner Success team for curriculum updates.
4. Options for both traditional full-course and accelerated half-term formats.
5. Collaboration on marketing and admissions material

Conclusion

The Rize Cybersecurity curriculum refresh aims to better prepare students for the evolving job market while maintaining the program's strengths. Whether you're an existing partner or a new institution exploring collaboration, our team is ready to support you in making these exciting changes a reality for your students. Schedule time below to meet with a member of our team to learn more.