The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Computer Science is launching an innovative new program titled, “Bridge to Cyber,” an opportunity to get a head start in cyber security education without prior background.
The program, funded by a $4.6 million National Science Foundation grant, provides a pathway for students and working professionals to earn a master’s degree in cyber security even if they did not earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. It is one of seven programs in the country to receive funding from the NSF, and it will begin in Spring 2025.
Students participating in “Bridge to Cyber” will take a one-year sequence of four basic computer science courses. After completing the foundational coursework, they will be enrolled in the nationally ranked Master of Science in Cyber Security Program at UAB.
"The Bridge to Cyber Program aims to empower individuals to join the technology and cyber security fields,” said Ragib Hasan, Ph.D., computer science professor who will oversee the program. “The initiative is designed as a part-time, low-course load curriculum, making it accessible for working professionals to gain the necessary background to join our master’s in cyber security program.”
Through the NSF grant—titled “CyberCorps Scholarship for Service”—Hasan is able to offer financial support to students who wish to participate in the program. In total, “Bridge to Cyber” will offer 20 full tuition scholarships in year one, ensuring fewer financial barriers for individuals and working professionals who aim to make a significant pivot in their careers.
In addition to financial aid, the program also offers advising and administrative support for students. Hasan will collaborate with several faculty members in the Department of Computer Science to facilitate the program, including Yuliang Zheng, Ph.D., chair; Chengcui Zhang, Ph.D., professor; and Mahmut Unan, Ph.D., teaching assistant professor.
According to Hasan, “Bridge to Cyber” will prepare graduates to fill in-demand jobs across the country, helping them launch a successful career.
“Given the critical need for trained cyber security professionals nationwide, this program will play a significant role in developing our cyber security workforce,” said Hasan.
Learn more about the program by visiting the Department of Computer Science’s website.
