BS in Cybersecurity at CU Denver
Develop In-Demand Skills to Protect Digital Infrastructure
Our Program Strengths
Comprehensive Curriculum
Build a strong foundation in cybersecurity through integrated coursework in cryptography, secure programming, system and network security, risk management, and emerging infrastructure security.
Hands-On Learning
Gain practical experience through virtual labs, practice-oriented coursework, and industry-focused senior design projects.
High-Demand Career Paths
“We’re living in one of the most exciting times at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity—a space that’s rapidly evolving and full of opportunity. As threats grow more sophisticated, so do the tools and strategies to defend against them. For today’s cybersecurity professionals, this means not only high demand but also the chance to shape the future of digital security. In the classroom, I strive to bring together theory, hands-on practice, and real-world industry insight to prepare students to lead in this critical and dynamic field.”
Dr. Tiago Perez
With a PhD in cybersecurity, a strong foundation in data science, and years of hands-on industry experience, Professor Tiago Perez brings real-world insights into the classroom at the University of Colorado Denver.
“Cybersecurity is among those areas that has a huge shortage in Colorado. So the way I see it, cybersecurity was not as big of an area 10 or 15 years ago...it is gaining momentum as people become more familiar with it. From what I see in the market, there are so many jobs available, and there are so many opportunities for students coming from different backgrounds.”
Haadi Jafarian, PhD
Dr. Haadi Jafarian is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.
“At CU Denver's META lab, we aim to bridge intelligent sensing and security, aiming to build practical, privacy-preserving systems for emerging technologies—from robotics to wearables—that can transform real-world applications and safeguard our digital future.”
Dr. Zhengxiong Li
Dr. Zhengxiong Li is an assistant professor at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering.
Ready to take the next step?
Request InformationThe BS in Cybersecurity at CU Denver offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum rooted in computer science, mathematics, and engineering. Students complete 32 credits of cybersecurity core courses along with technical electives and foundational computer science coursework, gaining expertise in areas such as secure programming, cryptography, system and network security, risk management, AI-driven cybersecurity, and mobile/IoT security. Emphasizing hands-on learning, students engage in cybersecurity labs, practical system administration, penetration testing, and a two-semester senior design project focused on real-world defense challenges.
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In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is critical for protecting data, systems, and infrastructure from increasingly complex cyber threats. Through a curriculum grounded in computer science and hands-on cybersecurity training, CU Denver’s Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity equips students with the technical expertise to analyze security threats, develop defense strategies, and design secure software, systems, and infrastructures. Whether you’re pursuing a career in security analysis, cybersecurity law, or risk analysis, this program equips you with the technical and theoretical skills to excel in this fast-growing field, addressing the urgent workforce demand in Colorado and nationwide.
Prepare for high-impact careers in security analysis, penetration testing, consulting, and risk analysis—fields with major demand in Colorado and nationwide.
Program Details
Course Start Dates
Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Duration
Typically 4 years
Number of Credits
120 credit hours
Cybersecurity professionals are essential to protecting organizations from evolving digital threats. CU Denver’s BS in Cybersecurity provides a strong foundation in computer science and cybersecurity principles, preparing students for diverse career opportunities across both public and private sectors.
Courses & Careers
Example courses
Secure Network and Systems Programming (CSCY 3765)
Covers secure coding practices for networked applications and how to prevent common vulnerabilities.
Gain a competitive edge through a program designated by the NSA as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense, opening doors to exclusive scholarships, internships, and federal career opportunities.
Nationally Recognized Education
Meet the Faculty
CU Denver is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the NSA. This recognition affirms the institution and department's alignment with national standards for cybersecurity education and workforce development, and highlights our commitment to producing highly qualified professionals equipped to protect critical infrastructure and reduce cyber threats.
NSA CAE-CD Designation
Security and Cryptography (CSCY 4407)
Explores encryption, authentication, and data protection techniques used in secure communications.
Cybersecurity Programming and Analysis (CSCY 4742)
Focuses on analyzing and developing secure software systems, with labs on vulnerability discovery, exploitation, and mitigation.
Mobile and IoT Security (CSCY 4772)
Examines security challenges in mobile and IoT systems, including vulnerability detection and software-based defenses, with a focus on emerging research and real-world applications.