Iowa is facing a notable gap in cybersecurity talent, with over 3,500 job postings unfilled, according to CyberSeek. To address this, Iowa State University (ISU) has introduced an online undergraduate certificate in cybersecurity. This program targets IT professionals holding two-year associate degrees, aiming to help them enhance their skills.
Doug Jacobson, a professor at ISU and director of the program, emphasizes that the initiative isn’t about replacing community college offerings but about providing upskilling. “We want to elevate those already in the workforce,” he said.
The certificate is part of the broader “Iowa State Online” initiative, launched in early 2023. This program caters to professionals eager to advance their careers. Susan Wohlsdorf-Arendt, the director, noted that this course suits individuals seeking their next career move.
The cybersecurity certificate comprises 21 credits divided into two-credit courses over eight weeks. This structure allows students to balance their studies with full-time work. The program covers essential topics like network defense and understanding cyber threats from an attacker’s perspective.
Instructors include industry professionals like Jeff Franklin, a senior information security officer. Jacobson believes this real-world experience adds immense value to students. The curriculum was developed with input from Iowa State’s Cybersecurity Advisory Council and local community colleges, such as Kirkwood Community College and Des Moines Area Community College, which also offer cybersecurity programs.
Iowa State has been offering various cybersecurity degrees for years, including an engineering degree, highlighting its commitment to addressing the cybersecurity skills gap. More than 200 students are currently enrolled in the undergraduate program, which is unique as it’s housed within the College of Engineering.
The surge in demand for this certificate stems from industry leaders struggling to find qualified candidates in a rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape. Jacobson noted that upskilling current employees is a priority for many businesses, especially since alternative training options can be costly and time-consuming.
This program allows professionals to gain valuable skills online without disrupting their jobs or family life. As the cybersecurity field evolves, initiatives like this will be essential for bridging the skills gap.
