Cybersecurity & Secure Software Design Concentration

Overview

Want to understand the current cybersecurity landscape and solve problems by building the next generation of secure software and systems? Students in this concentration learn to design and evaluate secure software, develop security policies, and manage complex network systems and software environments.

Credits

Total to Graduate: 120

  • Core Major Courses: 33-36 credits
  • Concentration Courses: 27 credits
  • University Core Courses and Electives: 57-60 credits

Courses

The core courses for all computer science majors include topics in programming fundamentals, data structures, object-oriented programming, agile development, algorithms, discrete structures, probability, software engineering, and more.

A few of the concentration courses include:

  • CS 203 Intro to Computer Security
  • CS 249 Forensics
  • CS 416 Computer Networks
  • CS 419 Operating Systems
  • CS 446 System Administration
  • CS 447 Network Security

 VIEW COURSE CATALOG

 Computer Requirements

Students majoring in computer science will need a laptop computer. Please view information about the department’s recommendations for laptop specifications. Freshman classes take place in departmental computer labs, but most students prefer to work on homework and projects on their own computers.

The cybersecurity profession is one of the fastest growing industries, with nationwide labor shortages sparking both high demand and high salaries. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the job growth for information security analysts to be 33% between 2020 and 2030, compared to 8% for all occupations. On the software security side, the BLS projects job growth of 22% for software developers and quality assurance analysts. Median pay for these positions is in the range of $103,000-110,000.

Both inside and outside of the classroom, you will have the opportunity to apply your developing skills to benefit real people. Our program includes numerous Immersive Learning opportunities, such as Computer Science for Muncie (and surrounding schools), working with local technology company Accutech, developing software for Minnetrista, or working with real community partners within the senior capstone sequence.

“Over the nine years of my teaching the capstone series, we have worked with 67 community partners on 117 projects. Our community partners range from local and regional businesses, startups, to non-profit organizations and different university offices and departments across colleges.”

– Dr. Lan Lin, Associate Professor of Computer Science

Computer science pairs well with other STEM majors, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. In addition, it is appealing to add a major in business, entrepreneurship, accounting, or finance. And, yes, you can pair a computer science concentration in cybersecurity & secure software design with a second concentration in computer science, such as data analytics & machine learning.

  • Cybersecurity principles
  • Secure software design
  • Computer networks and cryptography
  • Operating systems and attack points
  • System administration and security measures
  • Advanced network Security
  • Digital forensics
I love being able to not only learn from my CS teachers, but to collaborate with them outside of class and connect with them personally and professionally.

– Lindsay Bennett, ’25

Keep Exploring

Take the Next Step

Do you want to learn more about our program or have questions about the application process or financial aid? We’re here to help! One of the best ways to understand why Ball State is right for you is to schedule a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions to see it for yourself. Or if you’d like to speak directly to someone in our department, please feel free to call or email us.

Spotlight

Related Programs