OVERVIEW
The Departments of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics, and Computer Sciences jointly offer the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (B.S. in CYB). The Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology houses and administers the CYB program. The B.S. in Cybersecurity is interdisciplinary which includes aspects of law, policy, human factors, ethics, and risk management. The B.S. in Cybersecurity provides students with the knowledge and practical skills of computer crime, information systems solutions, proper seizure and recovery of computer evidence. Furthermore, the CYB program focuses on understanding criminal cyber-criminal behaviors, preventing cybercrimes, as well as understanding cyber laws governing prosecuting and punishing cybercriminals.
Mission Statement
We prepare cybersecurity professionals to deter, detect, contain, and investigate unauthorized use of computer networks and safeguard information assets. The interdisciplinary program offers students education in criminal justice, information systems, and computer science. The cybersecurity program integrates theory and practice, allowing students to gain hands-on experience. Moreover, the cybersecurity program is committed to delivering excellence in teaching, research, service, and community service. As new opportunities are continuously emerging due to persistent cyberattacks targeting businesses and governments alike and a shortage of cybersecurity professionals, our program trains students for employment in local, state, and federal agencies and the private sector.
Cybersecurity Program Learning Goals
- To grasp cybersecurity challenges on a domestic and international level.
- To acquire knowledge in areas of network security, information assurance, risk management, information security, and digital forensics.
- To master skills to deter, detect, contain, and investigate unauthorized use of computer networks and safeguard the organization’s information assets.
- To comprehend the relationships between the laws, ethics, privacy, and network security.
Cybersecurity Program Learning Objectives
- Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions,
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline,
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts,
- Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles,
- Function effectively as a member, or leader, of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline,
- Apply security principles and practices to maintain operations in the presence of risks and threats.
MSU Denver’s Cybersecurity Program Achieves NSA Designation
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) institution. The Cybersecurity, B.S. program has been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) from 2022 to 2027. The CAE-CD designation is awarded to regionally accredited academic institutions offering cybersecurity degrees and/or certificates at the associate, bachelor’s and graduate levels. The designation brings with it more opportunities for professional relationships and funding for students, helping them to better prepare for careers in a field where they are desperately needed. “There are about 590,000 unfilled cyber jobs in the U.S., and about 20,000 of those jobs are in Colorado,” said Richard Mac Namee, director of The Cybersecurity Center at MSU Denver. To learn more, download the Fact Sheet for Cybersecurity Education Diversity Initiative (CEDI).
KEY FEATURES
The B.S. in Cybersecurity program emphasizes hands-on learning experience for its students. Graduates of the program would be job-ready to enter cybersecurity careers.
The B.S. in Cybersecurity program offers daytime, evening, online, and hybrid classes. The flexible course delivery accommodates full-time as well as part time students who are busy working professionals with competing commitments.
The B.S. in Cybersecurity tailors its content and pedagogy to students broadly trained in social/behavioral science and computer information systems as well as computer science. Its curriculum combines the knowledge of combating cybercrime, skills to analyze and manage cyber threats and security, theoretical and analytical comprehension of criminal behavior. Thus, it will respond to rapidly changing cyber workforce requirements.
CURRICULUM
- CJC 1010 Introduction to Criminal Justice System
- CIS/CSS 1010 Introduction to Computers
- CS 1030 Computer Science Principles
- MTH 1210 Introduction to Statistics
Arts & Humanities (6 credits)
- PHI 3370 Computers, Ethics, & Society (recommended)
Written Communication (6 credits)
Oral Communication (3 credits)
- COMM 1010 Presentational Speaking (recommended)
Quantitative Literacy (3-4 credits)
- MTH 1210 Introduction to Statistics (pre-major requirement)*
*Prerequisite(s): An appropriate score on the mathematics pre-assessment test, or one of MTH 1080 or MTH 1109 or MTH 1110 or MTH 1112 or MTH 1610 with a “C-” or better.
Historical (3 credits)
- Global Diversity course (recommended)
Social & Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
- CJC 1010 Introduction to Criminal Justice System, 3 credits (pre-major requirement)
Global Diversity (0-3 credits)
- Students will fulfill the global diversity requirement by taking an approved course within one of the following categories: arts and humanities; historical; natural and physical sciences; or social and behavioral sciences.
For more information, visit General Studies Program.
- CYB 2001 Cyber Laws and Regulations
- CYB 2500 Criminal Investigation
- CYB Elective: Any CYB/CJC course not required for the major
- See list of CYB/CJC courses below
- CJC 3210 – White-Collar Crime
- CJC 3420 – Organized Crime
- CJC 3800 – Federal Law Enforcement
- CIS 2010 Foundations of Information Systems
- CIS 2110 Structured Problem Solving in Information Systems
- CIS 3230 Telecommunication Systems and Networking
- CIS 3500 Information Systems Security
- CIS 4500 Information Systems Security Tools and Techniques
- CIS 4550 Information Systems Security Management and Information Assurance
- CSS 2751 – Principles of Cybersecurity
- CSS 2752 – Information Assurance
- CSS 2753 – Network Security
- CSS 2754 – Host Security
- CSS 3751 – Application Security
- CSS 3752 – Computer Forensics
- MTH 1210 – Introduction to Statistics (4 credits)
- Any discrete Math course as approved by Cybersecurity Faculty (3 credit hours)
Unrestricted Electives: The total number of unrestricted electives must be sufficient to meet the University’s minimum requirement to graduate: 120 credit hours.
CYB Elective: Any CYB/CJC course not required for the major.
NOTE: This is a standard list; some courses may or may not be offered each semester, and this list is subject to change without notice.
- CYB 3980 Internship in Cybersecurity
- CYB 3900 Open-Source Intelligence
- CJC 3200 Criminal Justice Administrative Behavior
- CJC 3440 American Gangsters
- CJC 3460 Crime Mapping and Analysis
- CJC 3490 Serial Killers
- CJC 3720 Chicanos and the Law
- CJC 405M Aviation Security
- CJC 4160 Human Trafficking
- CJC 4230 The Female Offender
- CJC 4260 Crime/Criminal Justice in Media
CYB 4990 Capstone Seminar in Cybersecurity
Prerequisites: CJC 3210, CJC 3420, and CJC 3800; CIS 4550; CSS 3752; Senior Standing 90 hours earned; per instructor’s permission
Description: Students in this course will integrate their knowledge acquired in previous courses on the institutions, policies, and practices of computer information systems, computer sciences and criminal justice. The students will synthesize interdisciplinary learning with exercises that promote critical thinking, including the development of a system plan with a focus on addressing encryption issues and best practices data protection. Students will critique current practices in criminal justice and cybersecurity. Students will evaluate the computer science of detecting infiltrated computer system networks and portable devices, with an extension towards a security conscious system and software development practices and testing activities, which includes discussion of ethical hacking.
University Requirement: Senior Experience
College of Health & Human Sciences 4-Year Degree Plans
- Select Year
- Select Cybersecurity
Current MSU Denver students, you may review your Degree Progress Report by logging into your Student Hub, click on Web Services–> Degree Progress Report.
The 2025-2026 Academic Catalog provides the following information:
- Program Overview
- Student Outcomes
- Course Descriptions
- General Degree Requirements
- Cybersecurity Major Coursework Requirements
- Summary of Requirements
CYB 390B Cyber Privacy Professional, CRN: 53629 (Fall 2025)
Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) Certification Prep Course
Dive into the fast-evolving world of cybersecurity privacy law and prepare for the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) certification!
Gain a deep understanding of federal and state privacy laws, industry regulations, and emerging technologies. Through real-world case studies, interactive discussions, and hands-on exercises, you’ll sharpen your ability to analyze legal issues, assess risks, and tackle complex privacy challenges.
Boost your resume with this globally recognized credential.
Required Hardware, Software, & Connectivity
To successfully complete this program, you will need a properly configured computer with the required components. Although mobile devices can be used, our experience shows that they don’t always give a student the optimum learning experience. Also, for online exam proctoring purposes, computers will need a camera (built-in or added). Online courses at MSU Denver are accessed through the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS). The minimum technical requirements to access and participate in online courses include the following:
- A computer with a reliable internet connection—high-speed internet, such as DSL or cable, is strongly recommended.
- At least one compatible internet browser with updated plug-ins. Requirements for computer operating systems, browsers, and plug-ins can be found on the Canvas support page regarding Browser and Computer Requirements for Canvas
The following software on your computer or mobile device:
- Adobe Acrobat Reader, version X or higher. To ensure you can access all PDF files, download the latest version of Adobe Reader
- Word Processing Software: Microsoft Word (version 2013 or higher), WordPad, or OpenOffice software is recommended.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
On successful completion of the CYB program, graduates will have the ability to:
- Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.
- Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.
- Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.
Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles. - Function effectively as a member, or leader, of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.
- Apply security principles and practices to maintain operations in the presence of risks and threats.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The Cybersecurity Center
The Cybersecurity Center at MSU Denver is a workforce development resource for higher education cybersecurity efforts in the region and beyond and a resource for all academic programs at MSU Denver. The Center provides program guidance and oversight, general cyber defense information, collaboration and outreach opportunities among students, faculty, other academic units/departments within the University.
To view information about the Cyber Range, Cybersecurity Certification Club (C3), Project PISCES, and Eviden SOC Download Brochure.
For any inquiries, please contact The Cybersecurity Center by completing the Contact Form.
Declaration of Cybersecurity Major
To declare a major in Cybersecurity, download and complete the fillable Declaration of Major form. Once completed, email the form to Maty Candelaria, CYB Academic Advisor: [email protected]
DECLARE CYB MAJORSTUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Women in Cybersecurity
WiCyS Student ChapterCyberBridge
CyberBridgeGirls Who Code College Loops
Girls Who CodeCYBERSECURITY FACULTY & STAFF
DIRECTORYFEATURED POSTS
2023 College of Health & Applied Sciences Outstanding Student Awards
Congratulations!
Abigail Molnar, Cybersecurity, B.S. (Class of 2023)
CYBER NEWS
James McColskey is among the students who will receive a Centurion Secured Certificate of Achievement from MSU Denver's Cybersecurity Center. Photo by Josh Geurink
Students shield Coloradoans from thousands of cyberattacks
Participants in MSU Denver’s Centurion Secured program are protecting smaller organizations from hackers while gaining real-world experience.
Through the PISCES program, MSU Denver student Monica Ball helps protect civic institutions across Colorado from cyberattacks. Photo by Alyson McClaran
Cyber students help protect civic institutions vulnerable to hackers
MSU Denver’s PISCES program provides cybersecurity monitoring for organizations throughout Colorado and gives students real-world experience in the process.
Cyber Heroes Prepare for Battle
With cybercrime soaring, the race is on to train a new generation of digital defenders.
MSU Denver student Soren Singpiel, left, works with alumna Ashley Danielle Aguilar at Lockheed Martin. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin
Partnership Opens Pipeline from MSU Denver to Lockheed Martin
The aerospace, technology and defense corporation is hiring students to support projects in AI, cybersecurity and more.
The Future of Cyberwar
The U.S. rallies its cyber defenses as the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalates on and off the battlefield.
Shattering the Cybersecurity Glass Ceiling
An all-girls squad from D’Evelyn Junior High School code and collaborate their way to the national CyberPatriot competition.
MSU Denver Aims to Improve Diversity in Cybersecurity Field
Diverse Issues in Higher Education Article
UPCOMING EVENTS
MSU Denver - LUPS Law Enforcement Workshop
Current Challenges in Law Enforcement: Hungarian and US Perspectives
Dates: Monday and Tuesday, April 28 and 29, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Location: Tivoli Student Union, Adirondacks Rooms 440/540
Event Details: Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) and Ludovika University of Public Service (LUPS) invite you to a two-day workshop fostering dialogue on contemporary law enforcement challenges in Hungary and the United States. The program will include expert presentations and panel discussions.
Audience: This workshop welcomes researchers, practitioners, and students interested in the work of Hungarian and US experts in law enforcement fields, including cybersecurity, drug regulation, prison service, and terrorism.
Questions, contact: Dr. Hyon Namgung ([email protected]) or Dr. László Christián ([email protected]).
Download workshop flyer or visit MSU Denver – LUPS Law Enforcement Workshop for agenda and more information.
PAST EVENTS
Cybersecurity: Speed Networking with Employers
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Administration Building, 1201 5th Street Denver, CO 80204
3rd Floor, Rooms 300 & 305
Event Details: Join MSU Denver Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) for a Cybersecurity “Speed Networking” event, where students will engage in quick, high-impact conversations with industry professionals on topics like resume building, interview techniques, LinkedIn and certifications! This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with employers. gain career insights. and expand your professional network in a fast-paced, engaging setting!
Hack The Future
Date: March 17, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Tivoli Turnhalle, 900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Presented in partnership with SeedAI, this event features an AI fundamentals workshop, interactive security testing exercises, and guidance on creatively applying AI tolls for career advancement and personal projects. Free and open to the public, no tech background or coding is needed. Please note: Attendees are highly encouraged to bring their own computers, but a limited number of laptops will be available during the event.
This event is for anyone interested in:
- Artificial intelligence, machine learning, or cybersecurity, especially for beginners who want to learn in a non-judgmental and fun environment
- Enhancing their creativity and boosting their productivity through LLMs
- Upskilling their technical toolkit and critical thinking
- Participating in research, development, and testing at the forefront of AI
We’ll provide:
- A welcoming space with facilitators to answer any questions and provide support
- A beginner-friendly intro to AI and resources to promote success and reduce stress
- A red-teaming session where you can complete challenges and capture flags to win prizes
- Opportunities to hear from local industry veterans and develop your professional network
Sponsored by MSU Denver’s Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS), and Girls Who Code.
MSU Denver's Open House
Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Locations: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB)
890 Auraria Parkway
Denver, CO 80204
Tivoli Student Union Turnhalle
900 Auraria Parkway
Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Open House is open to prospective and admitted students and their families.
Women in Cybersecurity and Lockheed Martin
Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Time: 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB), Room 204
890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Unlock the doors to your future with Empowering Futures: Career Development in Cybersecurity, a dynamic event presented by Women In Cybersecurity in collaboration with Lockheed Martin. This event is designed to provide students with invaluable insights and practical advice for advancing their careers in the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. There will be snacks and drinks provided as well as a chance to meet Lockheed Martin professionals. All are welcome to attend!
Study Skills for Cybersecurity Students
Date: February 27, 2024
Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Administration Building, Suite 310
Event Details: Are you looking to enhance your study strategies to learn more effectively? Join us at the workshop to spend time developing your studying skills.
Cyber Bridge: Capture the Flag
Date: February 16, 2024
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150
1449 7th St, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Capture the Flag coding challenge with Cyber Bridge, come test your skills and have some snacks!
The Cybersecurity Center PISCES Potluck
Date: Friday, December 1, 2023
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: The Cybersecurity Center
1250 7th Street Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Come and enjoy various dishes prepared by Tier 2 Team Leaders and Tier 3 Analysts. Bring something to share if you’d like. Backdoors and Breaches will also be played at this time.
National Security Agency Visits The Cybersecurity Center at MSU Denver
Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Location: The Cybersecurity Center
1205 7th Street Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Join us for an exciting event as the National Security Agency (NSA) pays a visit to MSU Denver. This in-person event will provide a unique opportunity to learn about the NSA’s role in national security, cybersecurity, and intelligence gathering. Whether you’re interested in a career in these fields or simply curious about the work of the NSA, this event is for you.
During the visit, you’ll have the chance to interact with NSA representatives, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into the agency’s operations. Discover how the NSA contributes to protecting our nation’s interests and learn about the cutting-edge technologies they employ.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to engage with professionals from the NSA and expand your knowledge in the field of national security. Mark your calendars and be sure to join us at MSU Denver for this enlightening event.
Coffee and Cocoa Social: A Talk with Scott Shadler hosted by CyberBridge
Date: Thursday, November 16, 2023
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150
1449 7th Street, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Dive into the dynamic world of technology and cybersecurity with an interactive session led by a seasoned IT Director who has been at the forefront of the industry for over two decades. With a track record of steering global tech solutions and spearheading award-winning innovations, he brings knowledge and first-hand experience in problem-solving and talent acquisition. He has been in charge of the hiring process for top firms nationwide.
This event is a golden opportunity for anyone aspiring to excel in the competitive field of IT. Learn the subtleties that can make your resume stand out. The skill sets that top companies desperately seek and the mindset needed to thrive in fast-paced tech environments. Whether seeking your first role or aiming to advance your career, the insights offered here could be the catalyst you need for your next big opportunity.
A Talk with Alex Weinert, Microsoft VP of Identity & Security
Date: Monday, October 30, 2023
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Reception to Follow
Location: CAVEA Theater
Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB), Room 420
890 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Join us to hear Alex discuss the need for diverse opportunities in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Speakers Bureau
Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Tivoli Student Union, LoRaine Good Room, 444
900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: In celebration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) presents the Cybersecurity Speakers Bureau. Come and gain insider information about the cybersecurity field from industry professionals. All are welcome to attend.
Campus Catalyst: MSU Denver-DU Hack 23
Dates: Saturday October 21 – Sunday October 22, 2023
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Computer Science Building (ECS), Room 510
University of Denver
2155 East Wesley Avenue Denver, CO 80208
Event Details: Join us for MSU Denver and DU’s first join Hack-a-Thon!
Women in Cybersecurity Candle Making Event
Date: Thursday, September 21, 2023
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Jordan Student Success Building (JSSB) 2nd Floor at Mezzanine
900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Come join us for an evening of fun with a chance to connect and learn more about women in cyber!
Cybersecurity Panel: Criminal Justice Matters! Smart on Cybersecurity
Date: Monday, May 1, 2023
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Location: Tivoli Student Union, LoRaine Good Room, 444
900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Cybersecurity professionals spoke about the reality of working in cybersecurity, topics include: cybersecurity isn’t only about computers but behavior and criminal justice perspective of cybersecurity.
Raíces Cyber Denver Chapter Presents: Malware Reverse Engineering with James Leo
Date: Tuesday, April 25, 2023
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Aerospace & Engineering Sciences Building (AES), Forum 150
1449 7th Street, Denver, CO 80204
National Organization Information:
Raíces Cyber Org is the Hispanic, Latino, Latina, LatinX and Our Allies International Association in Cybersecurity. Raíces Cyber Org’s Mission is to Encourage and Support the Hispanic, Latino, Latina and LatinX Cyber Community to achieve Greater representation in the Cyber Workforce.
“Raíces Cyber, Changing the World by Creating DIVERSITY of Thought in Cyber”
Cybersecurity Networking Panel Discussion
Date: Friday, November 4, 2022
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Location: Tivoli Student Union, LoRaine Good Room, 444
900 Auraria Parkway, Denver, CO 80204
Event Details: Career Planning Advice & Strategies On Post-Pandemic Hiring Trends & Opportunities
Sponsors: Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) and Raíces Cyber Org
ALUMNI RESOURCES
To find a host of exciting events, career support resources, and opportunities to engage with fellow Roadrunners, visit the Classroom to Career Hub (C2Hub) Alumni Relations page.
Maty Candelaria
Cybersecurity Academic Advisor
Phone: (303) 615-1099 | Email: [email protected]
Schedule an AppointmentOffice Location
We are located in the Administration Building, Suite 310.
Office Hours
Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Mailing Address
Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Campus Box 10
P.O. Box 173362
Denver, CO 80217-3362