In response to workforce needs in central Florida, this project is developing and implementing a cybersecurity specialization within an AS degree program in Computer Engineering Technology (CET). Project objectives include increasing the number of full-time entering students declaring a major in CET by 5% each year, increasing retention rates for targeted CET students by 5% by the end of the project period, and increasing placement rates for targeted CET completers by 5% by the end of the project period.
The project is undertaking a number of activities related to curriculum and program development, faculty development, and articulation, including:
* establishing qualifications for cybersecurity professionals; * establishing strong partnerships between two-year and four-year institutions, business, industry, and government; * developing articulation agreements between local institutions (especially between Valencia Community College and the University of Central Florida); * integrating certification requirements into courses and programs; * aligning and adapting courses and course content; * preparing students for immediate employment and continued career advancement; * using the National Security Agency categorization of security positions as a framework for developing program requirements; * developing collaborative activities across institutions to promote cybersecurity careers; and * providing faculty with training on the most effective instructional methods for maximizing student learning.
Data being collected as indicators of success include course enrollment, retention, and completion; declared majors; program completion; placements; participation of underrepresented groups; and timely completion of project activities.
