The Evolving Cyber Landscape and the Need for Effective Online Education
Technology is revolutionizing how businesses operate, but it also introduces new risks at an alarming rate.
In today’s tech-centric world, the question is no longer if a company will be impacted by a cybersecurity incident, but when. As a result, organizations are increasingly vulnerable to a growing array of harmful consequences, ranging from downtime and lost revenue to regulatory noncompliance and loss of consumer trust. Contending with these risks demands a robust cybersecurity prevention plan and the expertise to develop and execute it effectively.
Today, most companies find themselves in a constant state of change—often so busy reacting to incidents and demands that there seems little time to implement systemic changes. At the same time, many don’t have access to the talented cybersecurity professionals needed for true cyber resilience.
The Global Cybersecurity Talent Shortage will Reach More Than 85 Million workers by 2030 in the U.S.
There are roughly 448,000
cybersecurity job vacancies across public and private sectors
SOURCE: World Economic Forum
Innovative Approaches for an Evolving Cyber Landscape
Solving these challenges will require an innovative approach, one where continuous education is viewed not just as an advantage but as a necessity. As the cyber landscape continues to evolve, cybersecurity professionals and the organizations they work for must prioritize ongoing learning. While staying ahead of every new cybersecurity risk may be impossible, continuous education ensures they can address breaches quickly and effectively.
Continuing Education Through Online Programs
One of the most accessible ways for cybersecurity professionals to begin or advance their education is through online programs. However, it’s important to carefully choose the right program for your goals. Ultimately, the relevance and quality of these programs are essential to ensure students get the most out of their investment.
Best Online Programs
To select a high-quality online program, look for those that are accredited and reputable, and have received recognition from trusted sources, such as the Best Online Colleges rankings by U.S. News and World Report. The top cybersecurity programs are also recognized by industry standards, such as the Center of Academic Excellence by the NSA and the Department of Homeland Security. Seek programs taught by expert faculty who are active in the field to ensure that the education provided is both practical and applicable to real-world scenarios.
Maeve Dion is a teacher, researcher, communicator, and policy writer in the areas of national and international cyber security, internet policy, and global governance. With extensive professional experience, Maeve brings a wealth of knowledge as the program director of the M.S. Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management program.
Connect with Maeve
Ron first became involved in IT when he served in the Army National Guard’s 2nd Battalion, 197th Field Artillery regiment, maintaining and repairing communications equipment. After decades in the business world, Ron pursued his passion for teaching and education at the secondary and postsecondary level. Ron brings tremendous energy and enthusiasm with his knowledge to support undergraduate students.
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University of New Hampshire Aims to Build a Strong Cybersecurity Workforce
The University of New Hampshire’s (UNH) Center for Cybersecurity Leadership, Education, and Outreach (CCLEO) offers educational programs aimed at building a stronger cybersecurity workforce and helping organizations manage their cybersecurity risks. Presently, UNH is the only institution in the state of New Hampshire to earn recognition from the NSA, Department of Homeland Security, and US News & World Report.
UNH Offers Online Degrees Tailored to Different Levels of Cybersecurity Focus Areas
To help cybersecurity professionals kickstart or supercharge their careers, UNH currently offers multiple degree programs tailored to different levels of experience and focus areas. For instance, starting in the Fall of 2024, UNH’s Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity Option (B.S.) program provides students with a solid introduction to the technical and legal aspects of cybersecurity. For professionals seeking graduate education, UNH’s Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management (M.S.) (CPRM) program covers not only the technical aspects of cybersecurity but also the importance of governance, leadership, and communication.
UNH’s CPRM program can help cybersecurity professionals learn how to adapt to new challenges and manage risks more effectively. Professor Maeve Dion, Director of the CPRM program, notes, “Cyber risk management is about foreseeing future changes and managing the risk, resilience, and growth that are at the heart of ‘agile’ and ‘learning’ organizations.” By fostering a forward-thinking approach that supports lifelong learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, executives and other members of management help ensure the organization is keeping pace with industry changes.
An impactful CPRM curriculum provides diverse learning opportunities, from foundational cybersecurity policy to advanced risk management and incident response techniques. To support modern workforce development goals, bachelor’s degree programs should accommodate credits earned through military training, prior college, or professional certifications. When colleges maximize transfer credit, they demonstrate respect for the unique backgrounds and career goals of adult students, who often are midcareer or management-level professionals.
Grow and Retain Top Talent
Employers value employees who demonstrate a commitment to their lifelong learning and encourage applying new knowledge to improve security practices. Graduates of these programs often find themselves better prepared to take on leadership roles where they can influence cybersecurity strategies and policies at a strategic governance level. But staying current with the latest developments in the field not only improves individual expertise—it also increases organizational strength. With these skills, cybersecurity professionals can help anticipate, respond to, and recover from cyber risks. By investing in continuous education through online programs like the undergraduate and graduate programs at UNH, organizations and professionals can address immediate challenges and build a foundation for long-term security, stability, and growth.
Invest in Continuing Your Education in Cybersecurity With The University of New Hampshire
Learn more about how UNH degree and certificate offerings can help equip you or members of your organization with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity.
Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity Option (B.S.)
Our online Computer Information Technology (IT) bachelor’s degree focuses on the business use of information and how to help an organization apply technology to enhance overall operations. As a student, you’ll build a foundation in programming, network systems, systems analysis, and software tools.
Tip! This program is especially built for someone seeking a technology-focused degree program. UNH CPS accepts up to 90 credits in transfer for undergraduate programs.
Credit Hours: 120 | Transfer: Up to 90 Credits | Tuition Cost
Cybersecurity Policy & Risk Management (M.S.)
The online M.S. in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management (CPRM) cultivates strategic thinking, policy development and risk-management skills for those with or without IT experience or an undergraduate degree in a technical field. The program features expert faculty who help blend strategy and policy with preparedness, incident response, recovery, and resilience.
Credit Hours: 30 | Program Length: 12 months | Tuition Cost
The UNH Advantage
• Exclusively Focused on
Adult
Students Top Ranked for Best Online Degrees
As part of the University System of New Hampshire, the UNH College of Professional Studies has been a leader in online education for nearly 20 years. Our bachelor’s programs are consistently among the top-ranked in New Hampshire and nationwide by U.S. News & World Report.
• Affordable Ranked #7 in the U.S. for Best Value
The University of New Hampshire is the No. 7 “Best Value” public university in the country according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best College rankings. As an access-focused college within the university, our undergraduate and graduate tuition rates are among the lowest in New England for residents and nonresidents. We also offer credit for your experience and waiver and discount programs that can defray all or part of the cost of tuition for specific groups or individuals.
• Innovation & Leadership Designated as a National Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense
Education
UNH is the first institution in New Hampshire to be designated a National Center of Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the U.S. National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for our master’s degree in Cybersecurity Policy and Risk Management.
• Top-Tier Research University Accredited & R1
We are a public, nonprofit university that’s regionally accredited by New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and a top-tier research school (Carnegie Classification R1).
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Bachelor’s Degree: 1-855-472-4255 | Master’s Degree: 1-855-250-6699
