The University of Texas at Dallas announced the start of a new interdisciplinary degree program this fall, offering a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity technology and policy. The program is a joint effort between the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences (EPPS), reflecting the university’s commitment to equip students with both technical expertise and policy acumen.
Why the program matters
“Cybersecurity is a public policy problem as much as a technical one,” said Memduh Tura, associate professor of practice in cybersecurity and public policy, in the university’s news release. He explained that ransomware attacks on hospitals or city governments raise governance questions that go beyond code and hardware.
Professor Ovidiu Daescu, a computer‑science faculty member and Jonsson School Chair, added, “From phishing attacks to unintentional hacking of businesses by AI agents to data breaches affecting millions, the threats facing public and private sectors are quickly growing in scale and sophistication. As technology evolves, so too must the professionals tasked with defending it.”
Program structure and goals
The curriculum blends core cybersecurity courses—network security, cryptography, secure software development—with policy‑focused classes covering legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and governance strategies. Students will graduate with the ability to design secure systems and to navigate the regulatory environment that shapes cyber‑defense initiatives.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for information security analysts is projected to grow 21 % between 2025 and 2035, adding roughly 40,000 jobs nationwide. The new degree aims to prepare Dallas‑area graduates for these opportunities, supporting both local businesses and government agencies that are increasingly dependent on robust cyber defenses.
Local impact
Dallas, a major hub for technology firms, hospitals, and municipal services, stands to benefit directly from a pipeline of talent trained to address cyber‑threats that affect the community. The program’s emphasis on public‑policy expertise aligns with the city’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its cyber‑resilience, from protecting critical infrastructure to safeguarding patient data in local health systems.
University officials anticipate that graduates will find employment not only in traditional tech firms but also in city government, public‑safety agencies, and health‑care organizations that require a nuanced understanding of both technology and policy.
Looking ahead
UT Dallas plans to expand the program with internships and partnerships with local industry leaders, giving students real‑world experience in defending against cyber‑incidents. The university hopes the degree will become a model for other institutions seeking to bridge the gap between technical skill and policy insight.
For more information about admissions, curriculum details, and upcoming information‑security events, prospective students can visit the UT Dallas website or contact the Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Richardson — read the source article.
