Cyber Operations is an interdisciplinary major encompassing the entire scope of cyberspace and related operations that are both technical and non-technical (i.e., ethical, legal, human-centered, etc.) in nature. Cyber Operations is a complementary discipline to Cybersecurity. Cyber Operations places a particular emphasis on technologies and techniques applicable to all operational and system levels. Coursework in Cyber Operations balances theory, practice and hands-on labs inspired by real-life scenarios. Skills and competencies emphasized are in system attack, infiltration, exploitation, defense, mitigation, and recovery.
Program Highlights
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This major is one of only two programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the only truly interdisciplinary one, that is designated by the National Security Agency as a Center of Academic Excellence.
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Graduates from this program will have the skills and proficiencies that are critical to intelligence, military and law enforcement organizations authorized to perform these specialized operations.
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ODU’s Cyber Operations major program is firmly grounded in the computer science, computer engineering, and/or electrical engineering disciplines, with extensive opportunities for hands-on applications via labs and exercises.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Computer Systems Analysts
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to implement and improve computer systems. Analyze user requirements, procedures, and problems to automate or improve existing systems and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and scheduling limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Information Security Analysts
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.
Security Management Specialists
Conduct security assessments for organizations, and design security systems and processes. May specialize in areas such as physical security, personnel security, and information security. May work in fields such as health care, banking, gaming, security engineering, or manufacturing.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Install, configure, and support an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet systems or a segment of a network system. Monitor network to ensure network availability to all system users and may perform necessary maintenance to support network availability. May monitor and test Web site performance to ensure Web sites operate correctly and without interruption. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software. May supervise computer user support specialists and computer network support specialists. May administer network security measures.
Requirements
Because the curriculum requires calculus and physics, as well as a number of computer engineering and computer science courses, it is highly recommended that prospective students feel confident in their skills in high school math and science. Information about AP, IB and Cambridge Advances A/AS exams and scores that are accepted can be found here.
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Scholarships
ODU Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research is pleased to announce a new scholarship program for students who are majoring in Cybersecurity. These are four year scholarships ($8,888 per year, total: $35,552) available to talented students with demonstrated financial need. Besides the scholarship, students also receive strong academic support, including faculty mentoring, peer tutoring, acceptance to the ODU Cybersecurity Learning Community, opportunities to join the Cyberhacking Competition Team, and access to the Cybersecurity Virtual Lab. They will also have access to summer research internships and assistance with job placement, as well as other support provided by ODU such as the Student Success Center, Math & Science Resource Center, Writing Center, and Career Development Services.
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