SD

Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
On-Campus, Online

Dakota State University | BS in Cyber Operations

  • Madison
About This Program

Designated as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations, this program focuses on identifying, investigating, and responding to cyberattacks like data breaches and malware infections.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn
  • Students learn to analyze the mentality and techniques of hackers, perform reverse engineering, and exploit software vulnerabilities in a controlled, hands-on lab environment.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
The BS in Cyber Operations at Dakota State University is a four-year undergraduate program emphasizing defensive cybersecurity, network security, incident response, and hands-on cyber defense techniques.[2
Typical Course Topics
1. Introduction to Cyber Operations 2. Network Security and Defense 3. System Administration (Windows/Linux) 4. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing 5. Digital Forensics and Incident Response 6. Cryptography and Data Protection
Program Specializations:
Cyber Defense & Cyber Operations
Tech
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
High school diploma or GED with competitive GPA (typically 3.0+) is required. SAT/ACT scores are often optional for undergraduate admission. Some programs may require foundational coursework in mathematics or computer science.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: Bachelor of Science
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Not Required
β€’ TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

β€’ Statement of Purpose: Optional
β€’ Letters of Recommendation: Not typically required
β€’ Resume: Optional
β€’ Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Career Opportunities in AI

Start Cybersecurity Analyst career in Cybersecurity AI with cybersecurity focus

Estimated Industry Salary
Cybersecurity Operations Specialist: $98,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
0.13%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst 2. Cybersecurity Analyst 3. Incident Response Specialist 4. Network Security Engineer
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers in cybersecurity include Microsoft, Cisco, IBM, government agencies (NSA, FBI, DHS), Fortune 500 financial institutions, and major defense contractors.
Program Details
Duration
  • 4.0 Year
Tuition
$ 30,462
Format
On-Campus, Online
Specializations
Cyber Defense & Cyber Operations
Tech