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April 2, 2021

SCSU launches cybersecurity certification program

IMAGE | Pixabay.com
By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo

With overseas hackers infiltrating US government computer networks and private companies alike, the demand for cybersecurity experts to prevent such attacks is on the rise.

Last year’s hack of SolarWinds, the Texas-based company with government contracts, compromised government data, for example. 

Southern Connecticut State University is offering a certification program aimed at training future cybersecurity experts to help prevent such attacks, particularly those aimed at defense contractors and subcontractors.

SCSU’s School of Graduate and Professional Studies has partnered with Data Intelligence Technologies of Virginia to launch the program this summer.

Lisa Lancor, chair of SCSU’s Computer Science Department, noted that security breaches happen every day.

Breaches “underscore the need to build a strong, cybersecurity workforce,” Lancor said.

The Defense Department has introduced more stringent cybersecurity standards for suppliers, contractors and subcontractors, the Cyber Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). They must get certified and will be subject to assessments, with the requirements being phased in by Oct. 1, 2025. 

SCSU will help Data Intelligence Technologies teach students seeking to become certified. 

According to Lancor, cybersecurity is an increasingly lucrative field, and this certification program should prove valuable. She noted that assessors are needed to review the cybersecurity of companies with defense contracts, such as Sikorsky and Pratt & Whitney.

“This opens up a huge market for anyone who wants to get into CMMC as a career, helping to secure organizations from external hackers,” Lancor said.

SCSU plans to offer multiple courses, aimed at helping students become certified as cyber professionals and assessors. The offerings include a mix of online and in-class instruction.

For more information, visit SCSU’s website at https://www.southernct.edu/cmmc.

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