CSU’s cybersecurity program receives prestigious ABET accreditation
October 14, 2020
Program is only one of 14 with ABET-CAC accreditation worldwide; only one in S.C.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) Computing Accreditation Commission accredited Charleston Southern University’s cybersecurity program this month, making it the only higher education institution in the Southeast with the designation. CSU is also only one of 14 cybersecurity programs with this accreditation in the world.
“The ABET accreditation validates our cybersecurity program objectives, where graduates are deployed with confidence to pursue lifelong learning, leading, and serving by applying their skills in cybersecurity effectively and ethically,” Dr. Sean Hayes, associate professor and chair of computer science, said. “Our graduates can take pride in knowing that the quality of their education is so respected by others.”
ABET-CAC is considered a prestigious recognition with only a select top schools accredited internationally. According to Dr. Valerie Sessions, professor of computer science, the accreditation process gives CSU another method of continuous improvement for this program—noting further access to cybersecurity professors and practitioners who can help ensure that CSU’s programs are offering students a quality learning experience.
“It further validates the degree and shows potential employers that our graduates have what they need to enter the workplace,” Sessions said.
Since its inception three short years ago, the Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity has experienced a surge in growth. Starting with just five students, it now has 34 Buccaneers eager to pursue careers in an industry hungry for prepared, qualified talent.
President Dondi Costin said that this designation proves that CSU is on the leading edge of innovation and academic excellence.
“God’s hand is clearly on this program and this university as we run hard to meet the needs of our community and equip students to glorify God by being world class at what they do,” said Costin. “Prospective students can be more confident than ever that they are in great hands at Charleston Southern, where they can receive personalized preparation in small classes by faculty—now recognized by ABET as among the best in the business.”
Learn more about CSU’s cybersecurity degree at charlestonsouthern.edu/cybersecurity.
About Charleston Southern University
Founded in 1964, Charleston Southern University is a private, Christian liberal arts university. With an enrollment of 3,459 students, CSU is one of South Carolina’s largest accredited, independent universities and has been recognized as one of America’s Best Christian Colleges, America’s 100 Best College Buys, U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs (#11 nationally in 2020), U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans (#8 nationally in 2020), Colleges of Distinction, VA Yellow Ribbon Program and a Military Friendly School. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, CSU offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Students can learn online or in the classroom. The university’s vision is to be a Christian university nationally recognized for integrating faith in learning, leading and serving.
