An Innovative Modular Approach of Teaching Cyber Security across Computing Curricula

Abstract

This work in progress paper in the innovative practice category presents an innovative approach where cybersecurity concepts and methods are taught as individual modules across several existing courses in the curriculum of computer science (CS), computer information systems (CIS) and information technology (IT) courses. In almost all universities, cyber security is currently taught as an “add-on” track or concentration where students take a series of three to five courses related to cyber security in their junior and senior years after they have completed a series of required core courses [4]. Cyber security is so important that it can no longer be just a topic or a track – it is the way in which ALL software should be written. It should be taught in almost every course in a computer science curriculum because cyber security affects every major software component in any computing system. The modules are designed to be independent and loosely coupled, which enables them to be integrated into courses offering similar course content within the program, other computing related programs, or courses offered by other colleges and universities. The modules introduce students to the various concepts of cyber security from the freshman year, to ensure that fundamental programming concepts are taught from a security perspective – building a strong cyber security foundation for future courses. This innovative approach of teaching cyber security across various computing curricula will widen the pipeline to meet the demand of the nation for cyber security educated professionals.