Center for Computer Security & Information Assurance

The Hood College Center for Computer Security and Information Assurance (CCSIA) is the regional, interdisciplinary hub for cybersecurity education, research, outreach, and training. It was established to provide students, the campus community, and the region access to programs, resources, best practices, and partnerships to address modern cybersecurity challenges and opportunities.

Hood College Designated as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

The Center has been designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE).

Academic Offerings

The center supports two academic programs, a Master of Science in Cybersecurity, a Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, and an accelerated, 4PLUS BS/BA-MS in Cybersecurity that aim to prepare highly technical, skilled cybersecurity professionals and astute information security managers.

Mission & Objectives

To promote cybersecurity education, research, and best practices, along with fostering partnerships with academic, industry, and government organizations to address workforce needs and provide innovative solutions to cybersecurity and information assurance-related problems. The primary objectives of the Center are to:

Support the development of enriching curricular offerings to support rigorous education in the field of Cybersecurity.
Provide the necessary support and opportunities to academic departments in building capacity to supply the state and the region with a steady stream of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals on the cutting edge of the field in research and practice.
Prepare program graduates to pursue advanced degrees or careers in the industry and government sectors.
Serve as the central cybersecurity resource to the campus community, local private and public organizations, and our K-12 educational partners.
Encourage and support faculty in conducting cybersecurity-related research and scholarly activities.
Mentor, engage, and support students working on cybersecurity research and projects.

Historical Timeline

2012 Establishment of the Center for Computer Security and Information Assurance
2012 Center becomes a member of the National Cyberwatch Center
2014 Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity is offered
2017 MS in Cybersecurity approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission
2020 MS in Cybersecurity is also offered entirely online
2021 BA/MS in Cybersecurity 4PLUS program available to Hood College students
2022 Center designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE).