As a polytechnic institution committed to meeting industry needs, Utah Tech University is expanding its computing programs this fall with the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity as well as certificate programs in Cybersecurity and Cyber Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition.
The new programs, made possible by legislative support through the Talent Ready Utah initiative, are designed to address both statewide and regional workforce needs by preparing students for high-demand careers in cybersecurity with a focus on applied learning and industry-aligned training. These additions build on Utah Tech’s computer science, information technology and software engineering offerings.
“As digital threats are becoming more commonplace, so is the need to respond and mitigate those threats. Also, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is outpacing supply,” Joe Francom, chair of the Computing Department, said. “I am excited to offer students a hands-on, applied focus to learning cybersecurity to help prepare them to thrive in the workforce.”
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity will offer new coursework in areas such as ethical hacking, cloud and loT security, cyber law and infrastructure defense. The program anticipates enrolling 35 students by year three.
In parallel, the Cyber-SCADA certificate will focus on protecting critical infrastructure, such as power plants, water systems and manufacturing facilities and systems increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks. The program will draw on industry input and incorporate hands-on labs using real-world SCADA technologies and tools.
As part of Talent Ready Utah, the state awarded Utah Tech more than $300,000 in initial and ongoing funding for both initiatives. The funding supports faculty hiring, curriculum development, marketing and equipment acquisition to launch the programs.
“The growing demand for cybersecurity talent makes programs like these essential,” Aaron Davis, dean of the College of Science, Engineering & Technology, said. “We’re grateful to Talent Ready Utah for funding this high-impact initiative, which allows us to prepare students for critical, high-paying careers that protect infrastructure, businesses and communities.”
As part of this expansion, the computing department has welcomed two new faculty members. Dr. Syed Noaman Ali, assistant professor of information technology, brings expertise in applied cybersecurity research and is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Dr. Alin Zamfiroiu, a visiting professor from Romania, specializes in cybersecurity, mobile computing, and software quality, and serves as a senior researcher at Romania’s National Institute for Research and Informatics.
Utah and the Intermountain West face thousands of annual job openings in cybersecurity fields, with salaries often exceeding $100,000. The Cyber-SCADA certificate and cybersecurity degree will offer students stackable credentials, career-focused pathways and access to potential internships and industry collaboration.
To learn more about Utah Tech University, go to Utahtech.edu. For more information about the Department of Computing, visit computing.utahtech.edu.