The Master of Science in Informatics degree program at the San José State University School of Information has received validation for satisfying the comprehensive guidelines prescribed by the National Security Agency and the Department of Defense for exemplary cybersecurity training. This prestigious recognition was granted on May 31, 2024, and is effective through the 2029 academic year.

Dr. Tonia San Nicolas-Rocca, an associate professor who teaches cybersecurity courses in the program, expressed her enthusiasm about the validation. “Validating our MS in Informatics program demonstrates that our curriculum meets the standards put forth by the National Security Agency and Department of Defense in formulating effective cybersecurity education,” San Nicolas-Rocca said. “Specifically, this means that the course work in our Cybersecurity and Privacy Pathway aligns with and meets criteria related to knowledge units developed as part of the U.S. government’s focus areas.”

The curriculum includes 22 knowledge units related to network defense, risk management, and digital forensics, all derived from or mapped to components of the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education framework. This alignment ensures that students receive cutting-edge education that prepares them for critical roles in cybersecurity.

“This validation is a significant milestone for our program,” San Nicolas-Rocca said. “It not only affirms the quality of our education but also enhances the value of our MS in Informatics degree for current and prospective students. The program’s validation is the first step toward becoming a designated Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, qualifying us for grants, scholarship opportunities, and other resources.”

The NSA’s validation letter highlighted the program’s importance in addressing the national shortage of cybersecurity professionals. “Your ability to meet the increasing demands of the program validation will serve the nation well in contributing to the protection of the National Information Infrastructure,” the letter stated. It also emphasized the critical role of higher education in defending America’s cyberspace, citing the National Cyber Strategy of September 2018, which underscores the strategic advantage of a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce.

Prospective students interested in the MS in Informatics degree program can learn more about the Cybersecurity and Privacy pathway by visiting the program’s career pathways page. The pathway offers a robust curriculum to equip students with the skills needed to excel in cybersecurity.

This validation marks a pivotal moment for the university, solidifying its commitment to providing top-tier cybersecurity and privacy education and contributing to the national effort to build a secure and resilient cyber infrastructure.