For students seeking a meaningful career that combines problem-solving, service, and professional growth, cybersecurity offers a pathway to make a lasting impact while entering a high-demand field.
In today’s connected world, the cost of launching digital attacks has dropped dramatically, making it easier than ever for cybercriminals to target individuals, businesses, and government systems. Because of this reality, organizations across every industry need skilled professionals who can help protect critical information and technology from increasingly sophisticated threats.
This growing need has created exceptional opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. According to LightCast, cybersecurity professionals earn a median salary of $103,000, with many entry-level positions starting around $68,000. Demand continues to outpace supply, with approximately 663,430 cybersecurity positions currently unfilled in the United States.
Howard Payne University's Cybersecurity program prepares students to protect organizations and communities in an increasingly connected world. Combining technical knowledge with hands-on, simulation-based learning, the program equips students with the practical skills needed to identify, prevent, and respond to modern cyber threats. Students gain experience with industry-relevant security tools while developing the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities employers value. Designed to evolve alongside the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, the curriculum prepares graduates for careers in cybersecurity analysis, security operations, cloud security, incident response, governance and compliance, and related technology fields, while also providing a strong foundation for graduate study and lifelong professional growth.
Prepare to protect organizations in an increasingly connected world with Howard Payne University's Cybersecurity program. Through hands-on learning and simulated security scenarios, students develop the practical skills needed to identify, prevent, and respond to modern cyber threats. The curriculum emphasizes today's most in-demand cybersecurity tools and techniques while preparing graduates for a rapidly growing field with opportunities across business, healthcare, government, and technology. Grounded in excellence, integrity, and real-world application, this program equips students to confidently pursue meaningful careers in cybersecurity.
| Certification | Relevance to Target Outcomes | Level of Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ | The CompTIA Security+ exam is the standard Cybersecurity certification often required for entry-level Cybersecurity-specific roles, such as Cybersecurity Analyst. | Students who complete the program will cover all examined material. The IT and programming courses below are recommended for the additional coverage and practice they would provide. |
| Certified Ethical Hacker | The CEH validates a professional's skills in identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in target systems using the same knowledge and tools as malicious hackers. CEH holders are able to assess the security posture of an organization and recommend solutions to bolster defenses. | The Ethical Hacking course would cover penetration testing and attack detection and prevention in sufficient depth to qualify students for CEH. |
| GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) | GSEC certifies that an individual has the essential knowledge and skills in core cybersecurity topics including access control, cryptography, risk management, network security, and incident handling. The certification demonstrates hands-on technical abilities to tackle real-world infosec challenges. | The program would provide the necessary background in information systems and networking, including active defense, network security, cryptography, incident response, and cloud security. |
Rooted in Howard Payne University's Christ-centered mission, the Cybersecurity program prepares students to protect digital systems and serve others through technology, integrity, and ethical leadership. Students are challenged to develop the technical skills needed to identify, prevent, and respond to evolving cyber threats while considering the responsibility that comes with safeguarding information and resources. By combining cybersecurity expertise with Christian values, graduates are equipped to lead with wisdom, act with integrity, and make a meaningful impact in organizations and communities.
To learn more about the values that guide the Howard Payne University community, explore our Core Values.
Program Insights
Business Analyst
Information Technology
Criminal Justice
Computer Science
Security Analyst
Ethical Hacker
Teaching Physical
Education & Coaching
In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity stands as the digital shield protecting our information, privacy, and critical systems. At Howard Payne University, we’re not just teaching cybersecurity, we’re creating defenders of our shared digital future. Embark on a transformative journey into the dynamic landscape of digital protection, where you’ll be prepared to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of our tech-driven society. Our educational ethos revolves around empowering you to safeguard our digital world with integrity, innovation, and unwavering dedication.
Alumni Testimonial
“”I’ve always been interested in computers, so coming to Howard Payne University gave me the chance to turn that interest into a career. IT is a growing field with a lot of opportunities, but what I enjoy most is being able to help people. At HPU, I’ve learned that serving others isn’t just about fixing technology; it’s about showing Christ’s love through the way we care for and support those around us.”
Nathan Weems
Scholarships
95% of HPU students receive financial aid.
We’re passionate about making your college experience financially accessible. Our dedicated Financial Aid team will work diligently with you to explore every available opportunity and help make your HPU education affordable.
Contact
Chair of the Department of Computer Information Systems,
Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems
The Cybersecurity minor is offered online through a consortium of accredited colleges and universities (the Lower Cost Models Consortium or LCMC). All courses within the program are delivered by faculty employed by partner institutions in the consortium, with technology and administrative support provided by Rize Education.
Oversight of courses offered through the consortium are reviewed and approved by HPU. Students register through HPU and receive academic credit from HPU.
