糖心Vlog传媒 System Board Approves Master鈥檚 Degree in Cybersecurity at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock

cybersecurity digital forensics class
Cybersecurity students participate in a Digital Forensics class, collecting digital evidence in a practical scenario. The students search through digital evidence devices such as write-blockers, forensic bridges, computers, hard drives, and running software in an effort to capture data. Photo by Benjamin Krain

The University of Arkansas System Board of Trustees approved a new Master of Science in Cybersecurity at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock during its January meeting, expanding graduate-level offerings in a field critical to workforce development and regional economic growth.

Housed in the Department of Computer Science within the Donaghey College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, the new degree builds on 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 established cybersecurity programs and further positions the university as a leader in cybersecurity education and workforce preparation.

鈥淭his program represents an important step forward for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥 said Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Ann Bain. 鈥淚t allows us to build on the strong foundation our faculty have created in cybersecurity education while responding to clear workforce needs. I鈥檓 proud of our faculty for collaborating with our industry and community partners to develop a graduate program that prepares students for advanced roles in this field.鈥

The Master of Science in Cybersecurity is designed to prepare students for careers in areas such as cyber defense, risk management, secure systems design, and the protection of critical infrastructure. The program serves both recent graduates and working professionals seeking advanced technical expertise and leadership opportunities.

Dr. Ahmed AbuHalimeh, chair of the Department of Computer Science, said the approval reflects the department鈥檚 long-term approach to building a comprehensive cybersecurity pathway.

鈥淥ur certificates and undergraduate cybersecurity program have gained strong momentum, and this master鈥檚 degree allows students to continue developing their skills at a higher level,鈥 AbuHalimeh said. 鈥淚t also strengthens our ability to support employers who need professionals with advanced cybersecurity training and experience.鈥

The proposal for the degree will now be forwarded to the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board for its consideration. If approved, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock plans to begin offering the degree in fall 2026.