The new initiative builds on the university鈥檚 leadership in the Cyber Learning Network, a collaborative effort that brings together colleges and universities across the state to strengthen cybersecurity education, training, and workforce development.

鈥淭his is an important step forward for our students, our partners, and communities across Arkansas,鈥� said 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Chancellor Christina S. Drale. 鈥淎t 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, we are committed not only to preparing students for the future, but to applying what we do in ways that directly strengthen our communities. This initiative does both.鈥�

The Cybersecurity Clinic Network will connect students, faculty, and partner institutions to provide real-world cybersecurity services to underserved organizations, including small utilities, municipalities, rural healthcare providers, K鈥�12 schools, nonprofits, and small businesses.

Support from Google.org makes it possible to scale this work statewide, expanding access to hands-on learning while strengthening cybersecurity capacity for organizations across Arkansas. In addition, prior funding from the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response (CESER), secured through Senator John Boozman鈥檚 office, supported the development of key technologies that enable the clinic鈥檚 cybersecurity assessment and remediation services. 

“Navigating the recent increase in disruptive cyber attacks on essential services鈥攆rom local power grids to hospitals 鈥� will rely on a strong cyber workforce capable of defending against everyday threats,” said Maab Ibrahim, Head of Knowledge, Skills, and Learning for the Americas, Google.org. “Cyber clinics are a crucial part of this effort: it gives students the hands-on experience they need to start careers, while at the same time providing vital, no-cost security services to local organizations that need them most. It鈥檚 a smart investment in both our workforce and the critical infrastructure that communities depend on.鈥�

Students participating in the clinics will work under faculty supervision to conduct cybersecurity assessments, recommend secure systems, deploy monitoring tools, and assist with remediation planning using industry best practices.

鈥淥ur goal is to ensure students have meaningful, hands-on experiences that prepare them to succeed in critical fields like cybersecurity,鈥� said Provost Ann Bain. 鈥淭his model connects classroom learning with real-world challenges, giving students the opportunity to build practical skills while making a meaningful impact across our state.鈥�

The program is expected to train more than 500 students and support more than 150 organizations statewide over the next six years. It will also be part of the , providing students with access to expanded training, collaboration, and career pathways.

Dr. Philip Huff, director of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Center for Research in Cybersecurity Engineering (CORE), said the initiative reflects years of collaboration across Arkansas.

鈥淲e鈥檝e seen the tremendous potential of connecting education directly with service,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淭his investment allows us to expand a proven model that strengthens our workforce pipeline while improving the resilience of critical infrastructure across the state.鈥�

The Cybersecurity Clinic Network is a systemwide effort involving institutions across the University of Arkansas System, community colleges, and private partners, ensuring access and impact in communities across Arkansas.

鈥淭his effort brings together higher education institutions across the state to expand opportunity and strengthen our economy,鈥� said 糖心Vlog传媒 System President Jay B. Silveria. 鈥淏y building a skilled cybersecurity workforce and supporting critical infrastructure, this initiative will benefit every corner of Arkansas.鈥�

By strengthening the state鈥檚 cybersecurity workforce pipeline while supporting critical infrastructure, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is leading a model that delivers real results for Arkansas communities.

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鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock is home to a diverse student body and respected faculty transforming academic endeavors into practical support and solutions for Arkansans. Establishing a full-service veterans legal clinic within the Bowen School of Law and bolstering nanotech research with a wide range of real-world applications will benefit veterans and accelerate innovative breakthroughs at the intersection of science and medicine,鈥� said U.S. Senator John Boozman, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. 鈥淚鈥檓 pleased to have championed these investments and look forward to the exciting impact they will have on our state and beyond in the years to come.鈥�

Chancellor Christina Drale added that these investments further position the university to serve Arkansas through impactful research and programs.

鈥淭his level of federal investment affirms the value and impact of the work happening at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� said Chancellor Christina Drale. 鈥淔rom supporting Arkansas veterans to advancing research in nanotechnology, cybersecurity, and data analytics, these appropriations strengthen our ability to serve the state and deliver research that makes a measurable difference for our communities and our country.

The federal funding package includes two direct allocations secured by Boozman for the veterans legal clinic and nanotechnology research equipment, in addition to the other investments he and the Arkansas congressional delegation supported for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock programs:

• $750,000 to support the Veterans Legal Services Clinic at the William H. Bowen School of Law
• $6 million for nanotechnology initiatives, including:
  • $3 million to enhance nanotechnology research capacity through the purchase of highly specialized state-of-the-art equipment
  • $3 million specifically for nanomaterials for bone regeneration research
• $5 million to develop a cyber-resilient computing platform in partnership with Montana State University
• $1 million to support COSMOS (social networks analysis) research

Veterans Legal Services Clinic

The $750,000 appropriation will enhance the Bowen School of Law鈥檚 Veterans Legal Services Clinic, which provides free legal assistance to Arkansas veterans while giving law students hands-on experience. To date the clinic has supported Veterans in two thirds of Arkansas counties and has secured more than $500k in benefits for veterans. With the additional funding, the clinic hopes to secure additional support to serve all Arkansas counties.  

鈥淭his funding strengthens our ability to stand alongside Arkansas veterans and ensure they have access to the legal services they deserve,鈥� said Dean Colin Crawford of the Bowen School of Law. 鈥淚t also gives our students meaningful, real-world experience advocating for those who have served our country.鈥�

Analytical and Nanotechnology Research Expansion

The $6 million in nanotechnology funding will significantly expand 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 research capacity. The $3 million equipment investment will enhance nanotechnology research through the acquisition of advanced instrumentation, positioning the university for continued growth in high-impact materials science. The instrumentation will serve both the academic as well as the industrial partners and provide educational opportunities for a variety of students and users. An additional $3 million will support research focused specifically on nanomaterials for bone regeneration, with potential applications for injured service members and others requiring regenerative medical treatments.

鈥淭hese investments strengthen the university鈥檚 ability to conduct advanced characterization and research at a higher level both academically and industrially,鈥� said Dr. Alex Biris, Chief Scientist at the Center for Integrative Nanotechnology Sciences. 鈥淭he funding expands our research capacity, and the support for the development of technologies focused on advanced bone and tissue regeneration, allowing us to pursue innovative solutions with significant implications for both national defense and medical advancement.鈥�  

Cyber-Resilient Space Computing Platform

The $5 million cyber-resilient computing platform project, a joint effort between 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock and Montana State University, will focus on strengthening satellite systems against emerging cyber threats and enhancing national security capabilities in space.

鈥淭his project advances our ability to build AI models that protect mission-critical systems operating in increasingly complex and contested cyber environments in space,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff. 鈥淚t reflects 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 growing leadership in applied cybersecurity research that directly supports national defense and workforce needs.鈥�

COSMOS: Social Networks Analysis

The $1 million investment in COSMOS (social networks analysis) will expand research capabilities in data analytics and national security applications.

鈥淪ocial network analysis plays a critical role in understanding complex digital ecosystems and cognitive security challenges,鈥� said Dr. Nitin Agarwal, director of COSMOS Research Center at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淭his funding allows us to deepen our research impact while preparing students to lead in high-demand intelligence and analytics fields.鈥�

Together, these investments accelerate 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 momentum as a leading public research university and a driver of innovation in Arkansas. From supporting veterans in Arkansas courtrooms to advancing technologies that strengthen national security, the university continues to translate research excellence into tangible benefits for the state and the nation.

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The CORE Center was established through a $1 million grant from Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, whose support has enabled 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to expand hands-on, high-impact learning opportunities in one of the nation鈥檚 fastest-growing and most critical fields.

鈥淐ybersecurity is one of the most pressing challenges facing industries today, and it continues to grow more complex every day,鈥� said Chancellor Christina S. Drale. 鈥淎t 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, we take seriously our responsibility to prepare students with the skills, training, and experience they need to make meaningful contributions in the workforce from day one. This investment allows us to expand access to high-quality cybersecurity education and better serve the needs of Arkansas.鈥�

The CORE Center enhances 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 already well-regarded cybersecurity programs by providing advanced lab space, immersive training environments, and new opportunities for collaboration with government, military, and industry partners. The center is designed to support workforce-aligned education across cybersecurity, digital forensics, and emerging applications of artificial intelligence.

Dr. Philip Huff, director of the CORE Center and associate professor of computer science, said the facility significantly expands the university鈥檚 ability to deliver real-world training aligned with current workforce demands.

鈥淥ur students train in real-world scenarios using the same tools and techniques they鈥檒l encounter in the field,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淭hat level of preparation doesn鈥檛 happen by accident. It takes intentional vision, resources, and strong partnerships. The CORE Center allows us to deepen those experiences and strengthen the pipeline of highly skilled cybersecurity professionals Arkansas needs.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity programs emphasize both academic rigor and workforce relevance, with curriculum shaped in collaboration with public-sector and private-sector partners. Students develop not only technical expertise, but also critical skills in teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, capabilities essential in today鈥檚 rapidly evolving digital landscape.

While the CORE Center will help meet immediate workforce needs, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin emphasized its potential to extend far beyond campus and state lines.

He noted the importance of international cybersecurity and the continued expansion of cybersecurity programs positions 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to become a global leader in the field.

鈥淭his is just the beginning,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 think we can fully envision what could come out of this if we lean in and understand the global reach of what鈥檚 about to be done here.鈥�

The CORE Center will support students at multiple stages of their academic and professional journeys, including Courtney Ingram, a recent graduate of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 undergraduate cybersecurity program and a current master鈥檚 student.

Ingram returned to college as an adult learner and was among the first graduates of the university鈥檚 undergraduate cybersecurity program. Just weeks before graduation, she began working as an information security analyst associate with Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, where she now monitors threats and supports secure operations.

鈥淩eturning to school later in life wasn鈥檛 always easy, but it was one of the best decisions I鈥檝e made,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淭he support I received here helped me build confidence and find a career that truly fits. Investments like this create real opportunities for students who are ready to grow, ready to work, and ready to contribute.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock currently offers undergraduate certificates and a bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, and the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees has approved a new master鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity, further expanding pathways for students to advance their education in this high-demand field.

Following the dedication ceremony, guests toured the CORE Center, met with faculty and students, and explored how the facility supports hands-on learning, applied research, and workforce preparation in cybersecurity and related disciplines.

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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.

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After more than two decades of service in the U.S. Air Force as a cyber warfare operator, William Cox, assistant professor of cybersecurity and information technology, knows what it takes to defend critical systems from attack. Now, his work in the classroom has acquainted him with a new kind of threat entirely 鈥� the barriers faced by blind and low-vision individuals in the cybersecurity industry.

Cox鈥檚 personal connection to his area of research began right here on 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 campus. His experience teaching a blind student opened his eyes to the flaws in current systems often deemed accessible.

鈥淚 relied on all the tools we鈥檙e told to trust when it comes to accessibility and they failed us 鈥� failed me,鈥� Cox said. 鈥淭he software would say the material was accessible, but what took my sighted students 10 minutes to read took my blind student three to four hours.鈥澛�

That experience helped Cox learn the crucial difference between accessibility and usability. His current research focuses on improving the usability of software to create more equitable learning and working environments for people with low vision.聽

Many cybersecurity platforms depend heavily on visualizations such as charts and color-coded alerts. Even when software meets formal accessibility standards, these visual indicators create interpretation barriers for those who are blind or have low vision. To address this issue, Cox is designing artificial-intelligence-powered tools to evaluate and improve how software communicates with users who cannot rely on visual observation. These tools will scan websites, using AI to flag accessibility gaps from a blind user鈥檚 perspective and suggest specific, usable solutions.聽

In addition to his work improving industry tools, Cox is developing classroom technology that helps faculty automatically convert documents and coursework into formats such as real-time audio. The goal is to enable blind and low-vision students to follow along in class just like any other student.

While most existing research in this area focuses on improving daily living activities, Cox鈥檚 work is aimed at industry and workforce development. He hopes to highlight and build on the strengths of the blind and low-vision community, empowering people to not only access cybersecurity education but also thrive in professional environments.

鈥淢any blind individuals have an exceptional ability to absorb, retain, and recall information. It makes sense when you think about it. They鈥檙e often able to process information in unique ways because they鈥檝e learned to adapt and overcome,鈥� he said.聽

Not only does Cox aim to develop a new standard for accessibility in cybersecurity, but he hopes to challenge stigma in the industry. He believes that true accessibility will boost local industry in a critical time for our state. By broadening the talent pipeline, stronger cybersecurity infrastructure in Arkansas will follow. He noted that while cyberattacks are often associated with major cities or federal agencies, Arkansas also faces similar vulnerabilities.

鈥淧eople sometimes think, 鈥榃e鈥檙e in Arkansas, so who cares about us?鈥� But that mindset is dangerous,鈥� Cox said. 鈥淲e have major industries here 鈥� Walmart, Tyson, and growing lithium production facilities 鈥� that the rest of the world is watching.鈥�

As state leaders increase investment in cybersecurity education and research, Cox sees an opportunity to protect Arkansas while creating new career pathways. With much of Arkansas鈥檚 cybersecurity talent drawn to opportunities out of state, increasing accessibility would expand and enrich the talent pool, and in turn, the local workforce.

Cox鈥檚 research transforms roadblocks into breakthroughs, showcasing a pivotal opportunity for Arkansas to take the lead in accessible cybersecurity education and development. He is proving that accessibility and innovation aren鈥檛 opposing goals 鈥� they鈥檙e essential partners in shaping the future of a rapidly growing industry. His work provides a roadmap strengthening Arkansas鈥檚 workforce, economy, and digital security.

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The inaugural class of nine graduates includes Kenneth Barnett, Bryce Ebsen, Isaac Gonzalez, Courtney Ingram, Cameron Jackson, Cameron Johnson, David Leitnaker, Emily McClenahan, and Brandon Orender.

These students represent a diverse range of backgrounds, including traditional students, military veterans, working professionals, and student-athletes, who are all united in their mission to enter a high-demand profession and protect critical systems from cyber threats.

鈥淲atching our first class of cybersecurity graduates walk across that stage is beyond exciting鈥攊t鈥檚 deeply rewarding,鈥� said Rebecca Passmore, an assistant professor of cybersecurity. 鈥淭hey came in as students full of curiosity and potential and are leaving as confident professionals ready to make a difference.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock launched its bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity in 2021 in response to growing national and statewide demand for skilled professionals. Since then, the program has rapidly expanded in scope, student enrollment, and national recognition, recently being named to national lists for both Top Cybersecurity Programs and Most Affordable Bachelor鈥檚 Degrees.

鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly rewarding鈥攍ike reaching the summit after a long climb,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff, associate professor of cybersecurity and director of cybersecurity research. 鈥淲e laid the groundwork for this program about six years ago, and to now see our students stepping into meaningful careers is a moment of real joy and pride.鈥�

The program now includes a growing number of certifications and specialized tracks in areas like digital forensics, software security, and cybersecurity operations. With new graduate programs in artificial intelligence security and cybersecurity operations on the horizon, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is solidifying its role as a statewide leader in cybersecurity education.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a profession for every organization,鈥� Huff said. 鈥淲e鈥檝e barely begun to supply the cybersecurity workforce needed in Arkansas. There are thousands of job openings right now, and we鈥檙e committed to preparing students to fill them.鈥�

The success stories among the first graduates reflect the program鈥檚 accessibility and flexibility. Courtney Ingram, a North Little Rock native, began college in 2004 but paused her education to focus on work and raising a family. After discovering the new degree program through a 2021 newspaper article, she enrolled and completed her degree while working full time. 

鈥淚 never thought I would be in the category of being one of the first to do what I鈥檓 doing,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淭he journey that I took to get here is something I鈥檒l never take for granted. I put myself in a very uncomfortable position for four years, but I made it. This program sharpened me. It made me more organized and gave me something to strive for. I鈥檝e changed since I started. I鈥檝e become more confident, and it鈥檚 helped my mental health. If I can do this, I鈥檓 ready for what鈥檚 next.鈥�

Ingram recently began a new role as an information security analyst associate at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. She was also the winner of the university鈥檚 Spring 2025 Grad Cap Contest. A picture of her grad cap earned more than 1,900 likes on Facebook. 

Cameron Jackson, a student-athlete from Kilgore, Texas, balanced his passion for track and field with rigorous cybersecurity coursework.

鈥淎s I learned more about cybersecurity and how important it is in today鈥檚 world, I knew it was the field I wanted to pursue,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock offered a strong program and the chance to grow in both athletics and academics, so it was the right fit for me. It鈥檚 been a great experience. The program is hands-on and constantly evolving, and I鈥檝e had the chance to work on real world projects that have challenged me and helped me grow.鈥�

He now plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in information science while working in cybersecurity as well as training as a professional athlete.

鈥淚t鈥檚 exciting and humbling to be part of the first graduating class,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e setting the tone for future students and helping build the reputation of the program. It feels like I鈥檓 part of something bigger than just my own education. Long term, I鈥檓 interested in combining my cybersecurity knowledge with legal studies to help organizations stay secure and compliant. I鈥檓 excited for what comes next and to represent 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock wherever I go.鈥�

Emily McClenahan, a former chef and sales professional from Malvern, saw cybersecurity as a chance to pursue a more intellectually challenging career.

鈥淚鈥檝e always been curious about how things work鈥攅specially in tech鈥攁nd after a decade in the culinary and sales industries, I was ready for a career that would challenge me intellectually and keep me learning,鈥� she said. 鈥淐ybersecurity checked all the boxes, and the program at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock felt like the perfect fit.鈥�

McClenahan returned to school after reading about the new program in an article and graduated this spring with honors.

鈥淢y experience was challenging, rewarding, and hands-on,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檝e learned so much and gained confidence in areas like digital forensics, incident response, and compliance. The faculty support has been outstanding, and I鈥檓 proud to be graduating with honors.

鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly emotional and rewarding,鈥� said Dr. Sandra Leiterman, cybersecurity education research professor. 鈥淲e launched this program during the uncertainty of COVID, when we had just a handful of students. These graduates took a chance on a new program. They believed in us, and we believed in them.鈥�

Graduates are stepping into roles such as security operations center analysts, threat hunters, and incident response specialists across government, healthcare, and private sectors.

鈥淭he stakes are high when it comes to cybersecurity,鈥� Passmore said. 鈥淔rom safeguarding patient records to protecting infrastructure, these students are entering careers that truly matter.鈥�

As cyber threats grow in complexity and frequency, the demand for trained professionals continues to climb.

鈥淭he market is robust and expanding,鈥� Passmore said. 鈥淲e need more students to step into this field prepared to protect what matters most.鈥�

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JOLT, which is hosted by the Venture Center, is a fast-paced, capture-the-flag-style cybersecurity competition. The team鈥攃omposed of Nathan Thomason, Patrick Roberts, Grayson Jackson, and Hanna Vantseyeva鈥攃ompeted against other teams in a weekend of technical challenges that tested their problem-solving skills and teamwork under pressure.

 “As an assistant professor at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, I encourage our students to step outside their comfort zones and take on challenges like JOLT,鈥� Rebecca Passmore said. 鈥淐ompetitions like this provide invaluable hands-on experience, helping students build the confidence and skills needed for success in cybersecurity.”

This year鈥檚 competition was set in a fictional scenario titled 鈥淭he 2025 Cyber Trial in a Startup World,鈥� where participants acted as IT interns at a made-up social media company called Jitter. Teams solved real-world cybersecurity and computer science challenges designed to simulate threats and incidents professionals might face on the job.

鈥淚鈥檓 absolutely elated at the team achieving second place,鈥� said Thomason, a junior cybersecurity major from Gravette. 鈥淭his is the first time we鈥檝e ever ranked in the top three as far as I know. I鈥檓 incredibly proud of my teammates and grateful for the support and mentorship from our professors.鈥�

Thomason focused on steganography challenges鈥攄ecoding hidden data embedded in digital files. One task involved finding a secret message hidden within the hexadecimal code of a JPEG image. Another required extracting an Excel spreadsheet concealed within a picture file.

For Grayson Jackson, a freshman computer science major from Benton, the JOLT competition was his first major cybersecurity competition. The experience allowed him to dive into complex encryption challenges. He worked on decrypting messages using the Solitaire cipher鈥攁n analog encryption system featured in Neal Stephenson鈥檚 novel 鈥淐ryptonomicon鈥濃�攁s well as reversing encrypted data encoded with AES techniques and matrix math.

鈥淚 feel much more confident in solving similar problems and knowing where to look for help,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥淧articipating in JOLT shows that we truly have passion for the field and are willing to learn new skills that will set us apart from others in our field.鈥�

Both students emphasized the importance of hands-on competitions like JOLT as a supplement to classroom learning. In addition to honing technical skills, the event helped them build connections with peers and professionals across the cybersecurity community.

鈥淧eople who are even remotely interested in the computer science and cybersecurity world should absolutely check out JOLT next year,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥淚t’s a great place to learn new skills and make new friends.鈥�

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糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock was named 13th on the list of and was ranked 24th on the list of . 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is the only university from Arkansas to be named on these lists.

鈥淭his recognition highlights the excellence of our cybersecurity program and the dedication of our faculty to providing a high-quality education that is both accessible and impactful,鈥� said Dr. Ahmed Abu Halimeh, interim chair of the Department of Computer Science at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淎s cybersecurity threats continue to grow, our program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to address real-world challenges and become leaders in this critical field. We鈥檙e proud to be a top choice for students seeking an affordable and exceptional education in cybersecurity.鈥�

A bachelor鈥檚 degree in cybersecurity equips students with the skills to protect sensitive data and thwart cyberattacks, making them invaluable assets in today鈥檚 tech-driven landscape.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock launched its bachelor鈥檚 degree program in cybersecurity in 2022 and currently has about 100 students in the program who are training to take on high-demand industry careers. There are more than 3,050 job openings in cybersecurity in Arkansas, according to .

鈥淭his recognition is a great milestone, but it’s just the beginning,鈥� said Dr. Philip Huff, assistant professor of cybersecurity at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淲ith our first cohort graduating in May, we’re seeing a growing impact on Arkansas’s cybersecurity workforce. Little Rock offers the ideal mix of high-caliber students, industry engagement, military connections, urban diversity, and expert faculty. Beyond our bachelor’s program, we offer certificates in eight specializations to ensure rapid alignment with workforce demands and job placement. 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is leading the way in preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.鈥�

The rankings are completed by Cybersecurity Guide, a cybersecurity education website whose mission is to connect tomorrow鈥檚 cybersecurity workforce with today鈥檚 best educational and professional training options. The rankings are based on data from the National Center for Education Statistics and College Navigator as well as tuition and credit information from university websites.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock received a t in December 2024 through Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders鈥� and the Arkansas Department of Higher Education鈥檚 HIRED Grant Program to help build the cybersecurity workforce in Arkansas.

Learn more about 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity programs by visiting this website.

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When Ingram sat at her desk as a bookkeeper, a quote written on the whiteboard stared back at her: 鈥淒oors are opening. The wait wasn鈥檛 punishment. It was preparation.鈥�

It was a silent challenge that lingered for years until Ingram decided to change her life. On May 17, she joined 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Class of 2025 as one of the first graduates of the university鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program.

鈥淚 never thought I would be in the category of being one of the first to do what I鈥檓 doing,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淭he journey that I took to get here is something I鈥檒l never take for granted. I put myself in a very uncomfortable position for four years, but I made it.鈥�

Ingram, a North Little Rock native who now lives in Little Rock, began her college journey in 2004 and spent years navigating school, work, and motherhood. She took classes intermittently at UCA, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and Pulaski Tech, once pursuing nursing, and earned an associate degree in biology in 2017. For a while, she stopped taking classes entirely, but she continued to dream of a more challenging and fulfilling career.

鈥淚 wasn鈥檛 content with just working in the position I was in,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 decided to take control of my life and where I wanted to be career-wise.鈥�

That decision led her to a 2021 newspaper article in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, announcing that 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock would launch a new degree in cybersecurity, and the rest is history.

鈥淏y then, I鈥檇 worked in finance for 10 years,鈥� Ingram said. 鈥淚 wanted a change, and the cybersecurity program seemed like the right path. I enrolled in 2021 and never looked back.鈥�

She brought with her 24 hours of previous college credit and juggled 12 to 16 credit hours per semester while working full time. Her perseverance paid off. Just a few weeks before graduation, she began a new job as an information security analyst associate at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, where she now monitors network traffic and security alerts for threats or suspicious activity, as well as procedure development.

鈥淚t鈥檚 amazing,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檒l be front and center at graduation. It鈥檚 a major accomplishment. It was a lot of work, but it was also really interesting. I would do it all over again.鈥�

Ingram credits her success to the strong support system within 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity program.

鈥淢y professors were awesome,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey made themselves available on weekends, answered questions, and helped us work through problems. Mr. William Cox, Dr. Philip Huff, and Mrs. Rebecca Passmore were my favorites.鈥�

One class stands out in particular: Digital Forensics with Passmore. The final project tasked students with solving a mock murder case using forensic techniques like email and text message analysis.

鈥淚t didn鈥檛 feel like work,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t was so fun. That鈥檚 when I really realized, 鈥榊eah, this is what I want to do.鈥欌��

The transformation she experienced through the program wasn鈥檛 just professional but personal.

鈥淭his program sharpened me. It made me more organized and gave me something to strive for,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檝e changed since I started. I鈥檝e become more confident, and it鈥檚 helped my mental health. If I can do this, I鈥檓 ready for what鈥檚 next.鈥�

She even found time to get married in 2022 during the program, another joyful twist in what she describes as her 鈥渢wisty鈥� path to success.

鈥淪omeone at a Women in Tech meeting recently talked about how not all career paths are straight lines. I had a twisty,鈥� she said. 鈥淎 lot of professionals in cybersecurity didn鈥檛 have a straight path either, and it鈥檚 encouraging to hear those stories. My path took time, pivots, and a whole lot of faith. I鈥檝e worked hard, asked questions even when I was scared, and pushed through the imposter syndrome that crept in more than once. If you have a dream, stick with it. A dream is just a thought until it comes true.鈥�

The post Courtney Ingram Transforms Career Through 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 Cybersecurity Program appeared first on News.

Arkansas educators like Brad Goodnight are already benefiting from NCTA program. A computer science teacher at , Goodnight earned his licensure to teach computer science through the Arkansas Cybersecurity Teaching Academy, an earlier grant-funded initiative tailored for Arkansas teachers. After completing the graduate certificate program in December 2024, Goodnight is eager to begin teaching concurrent enrollment cybersecurity classes.

Brad Goodnight, the sole computer science teacher at Morrilton High School, is preparing to teach cybersecurity concurrent enrollment courses to Arkansas high school students.

鈥溙切腣log传媒 Little Rock is my favorite school in the universe,鈥� Goodnight said. 鈥淚鈥檝e taken concurrent enrollment classes there in high school, completed my undergraduate degree, and now I鈥檓 pursuing a master鈥檚 degree. The NCTA program was an incredible opportunity鈥攊t provided the licensure I needed to teach computer science and equipped me with skills I could use immediately. The training is rich and rigorous.鈥�

Meeting Growing Demand for Computer Science Education

Goodnight has a full teaching schedule, offering Computer Science 1, 2, and 3, AP Computer Science A, and independent study courses. His classes are consistently at capacity, with waiting lists stretching for more than a year.

鈥淭he demand has been significant,鈥� Goodnight said. 鈥淓very student at our school is required to earn one credit in computer science to graduate, so I鈥檒l see all 750 students at least once during their high school careers, if not multiple times.鈥�

Goodnight鈥檚 journey to teaching computer science began with an unexpected twist. Initially aiming for an English teaching position, his knack for data analytics caught the school鈥檚 attention.

鈥淲hen I applied to Morrilton High School, I included data visualizations to demonstrate growth in test scores,鈥� Goodnight said. 鈥淭he school saw my orientation toward data analytics and suggested I teach computer science instead, where there was a critical need.鈥�

Since launching his computer science program in 2022, Goodnight has seen its popularity soar.

鈥淢y school immediately noticed the energy in the program and how many kids were lining up to take it,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been an exciting time.鈥�

Transformative Training at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock

The NCTA is an 18-credit-hour graduate certificate that prepares high school teachers to teach cybersecurity. The program is supported by a grant from the NCAE-C, the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, located within the National Security Agency. Goodnight credits the NCTA for significantly enhancing his skills and teaching abilities.

鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly excited to have graduated from the NCTA,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he courses were some of the most rigorous I鈥檝e ever taken. One of my favorites was Cybersecurity Operations with Sri Gourisetti, who works for Google and has extensive industry experience. The class was absolutely incredible.鈥�

Goodnight also praised Dr. Sandra Leiterman, cybersecurity education research professor.

鈥淪he鈥檚 a one-stop shop鈥攁 college in a box and a wealth of knowledge and resources,鈥� he said.

Looking Ahead

With 18 credit hours completed through the NCTA, Goodnight is now pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in information science and is considering a doctorate in the future.

鈥淚f your school needs to develop a cybersecurity curriculum, the NCTA team will stop at nothing to support teachers and students,鈥� Goodnight said. 鈥淭he classes are challenging, and the instructors are responsive and supportive. During a tough personal time, they bent over backward to help me succeed without lowering their high standards. I鈥檓 deeply grateful for this program.鈥�

Goodnight hopes to see further growth in 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 cybersecurity offerings, including opportunities for high school students to earn cybersecurity certificates through concurrent enrollment.

鈥淭hat would make students highly marketable for jobs right after high school, while also giving them a strong foundation to pursue a degree,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 trust 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock because they are leading the conversation on cybersecurity education in Arkansas. I know that when I send my students to people like Professors Sandra Leiterman and Philip Huff, they鈥檒l be in good hands.鈥�

Goodnight believes the program will have a lasting impact.

鈥淭his is a life-changing opportunity for students,鈥� he said. 鈥淧rograms like the NCTA are making a big difference for teachers and students across Arkansas. There are hundreds of teachers just like me, and I鈥檓 glad there is a program like the NCTA to help them.鈥�

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