Recent developments at the University of South Florida (USF) highlight a significant expansion in cybersecurity education and training programs, aimed at addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in this field. USF’s efforts come as a response to the increasing need for cybersecurity expertise both in Florida and globally.
Julie Gonzalez, a recent graduate of USF with a degree in cybersecurity, exemplifies the success of these programs. Shortly after graduating, Gonzalez began her career as an identity and access management analyst with Raymond James in St. Petersburg, reflecting the strong job market for cybersecurity professionals.
The state of Florida is playing a key role in this expansion. Governor Ron DeSantis recently approved a budget increase for Cyber Florida at USF, with an additional $20.5 million in funding, including $10 million in recurring funds. These funds are intended to bolster USF’s efforts to produce graduates ready for the cybersecurity workforce. This investment is significant considering the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ prediction of a 31 percent growth in the cybersecurity sector, coupled with an estimated global shortage of 2.7 million professionals in the field.
USF’s cybersecurity education includes practical, real-world experiences and collaborations with industry partners. For instance, students participate in simulated malware attacks, using authentic tools for problem-solving. The interdisciplinary nature of the program, combining elements of math, business, and industrial organizational psychology, is a key feature highlighted by graduates like Gonzalez.
The university offers diverse cybersecurity educational paths. The College of Engineering’s program, which started in 2018, now boasts over 550 students and is directed by Sriram Chellappan. Meanwhile, the Muma College of Business launched its Information Assurance and Cybersecurity Management program, offering flexible options for working students and military veterans.
Industry partnerships are central to USF’s approach, with collaborations across various sectors, including a partnership with Sylint for internships and training. These programs emphasize not only technical skills but also communication, teamwork, and stress management in cybersecurity contexts. A notable initiative is the ReliaQuest Cybersecurity Labs at USF, providing intensive training and resulting in significant job placements for participants. This program is distinctive for its co-creation and delivery in partnership between USF and an industry partner. Looking ahead, USF plans to introduce a cybersecurity master’s degree this fall, encompassing software, hardware, machine learning, and AI security. This addition complements existing master’s programs in related areas, such as cybercrime and cybersecurity intelligence.
The increased state funding is expected to facilitate the hiring of new faculty and the expansion of research efforts, potentially identifying new cybersecurity risks and enhancing security measures for various sectors. This expansion aligns with the objectives of the USF Global and National Security Institute, led by retired Marine Corps General Kenneth F. “Frank” McKenzie, focusing on broader security issues including cybersecurity. Through these developments, USF is positioning itself as a leader in cybersecurity education, addressing both immediate workforce needs and long-term security challenges.
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