Computer Science with Cybersecurity Concentration, B.S.
Work on the cutting edge of technology and innovation in a rapidly growing career field.
As a computer science student, you have the opportunity to get a concentration in cybersecurity. This is the study of computer security, network management, encryption, traffic monitoring, intrusion detection and incident response management.
This cybersecurity concentration prepares you for a variety of careers in network defense and as a cybersecurity analyst. It also prepares you for continued education in masters, or doctoral programs, at other universities. The program has strong connections with graduate schools in our region and some students transfer into these programs after completing their undergraduate degrees, while other start careers in cybersecurity after graduation.
This program follows the U.S. government’s National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) curriculum and the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
In addition to the standard computer science courses focusing on computational science, operating systems, programming languages, computer architecture, system analysis and design, data analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, students in the cybersecurity concentration take six courses in cyber-crime, governance, cyber forensics, network security, ethical hacking and computer security.
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Take the next step toward completing your B.S. in Computer Science degree at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Get StartedTake the next step toward completing your Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree at Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Major Requirements
Lenoir-Rhyne University's Computer Science program combines technical rigor with a liberal arts foundation, preparing students to thrive in a rapidly advancing digital world. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative and abstract reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking and strong communication-key skills for success in today's tech-driven industries. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science equips students for careers in business, industry, education or further study in computer science, information systems and related fields. Courses strike a balance between theoretical foundations and real-world applications, covering topics such as algorithms, programming, systems design, data analytics and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Students may customize their studies with electives in theoretical computer science or information systems, and have the option to pursue a concentration in Cybersecurity. This specialized track focuses on network security, encryption, intrusion detection, cyber forensics and ethical hacking, and aligns with the U.S. government's National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) frameworks. Graduates are well-prepared for a range of roles in areas including: Software Engineering, Systems and Database Administration, Web and Application Development, Network and Computer Security, Quality Assurance and Software Testing, Data Analytics and Machine Learning.
NOTE: For students wishing to double-major in Computer Science and Information Technology, required courses for both majors must be satisfied, and at least 15 unique credit hours must be earned in the second major.
Honors
Students majoring in Computer Science who are judged qualified by the faculty may, upon invitation, elect to pursue honors work in Computer Science. To graduate "With Honors in Computer Science" students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and a minimum major GPA of 3.2. In addition, they must complete twelve credits of honors work in Computer Science, including an acceptable senior project, complete an original thesis to be submitted for approval of the faculty and pass an oral defense of the research.
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General Education Requirements (37 hours)
Graduation Requirements (4 hours)
- Technical Requirements (15 hours)
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Major Requirements (55-56 hours)
- CSC 117 - Intro to Cybersecurity
- CSC 141 - Introduction to Java Programming
- CSC 150 - Computer Science I
- CSC 212 - Computer Architecture
- CSC 217 - Cybercrime and Governance
- CSC 227 - Network and System Security
- CSC 250 - Computer Science II
- CSC 260 - Analysis of Algorithms
- CSC 280 - Principles of Programming Languages
- CSC 312 - Operating Systems
- CSC 334 - Computer Networks
- CSC 350 - Database Management
- CSC 386 - Ethical Hacking Project
- CSC 400 - Systems Analysis and Software Engineering
- CSC 434 - Computer Security
- CSC 460 - Capstone Project
- CSC 475 - Comprehensive Senior Exam
Choose two courses from the following (6-7 Hours):- CSC 163 - Introduction to Visual Basic
- CSC 210 - Ethical Issues in Information Technology
- CSC 220 - Introduction to Web Design
- CSC 320 - Client-side Web Programming
- CSC 341 - Application Development with Java
- CSC 420 - Server-side Web Programming
- CSC 491 - Project Management
- CSC 498 - Senior Honors Research
- CSC 499 - Senior Honors Thesis
- MAT 166 - Calculus II
- MAT 250 - Discrete Mathematics II
- MAT 280 - Linear Algebra
- MAT 415 - Applied Statistical Methods
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General Elective Credits
General Electives (8-9 hours) as needed to reach 120 hours overall.
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Total Credit Hours - Minimum 120 hours
On occasion, technical and/or program requirements may also meet specific General Education requirements. Please confer with your program advisor to determine which courses, if any, may be counted accordingly.
All bachelor's degree programs at Lenoir-Rhyne require at least 120 credit hours. If, in combination, General Education, technical, and program requirements do not generate at least 120 hours, additional credits must be completed to achieve 120 hours. These classes may be general electives, or a student may complete a minor or additional major.
Admission & Financial Aid
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Undergraduate AdmissionOur admission team is here to assist you in making the college search process as easy as possible. Our counselors are happy to provide the information and guidance you need to submit your application, apply for financial aid and scholarships, visit and tour our campus.
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Financial AidWe recognize that paying for college is a top concern for students and their families. Our financial aid staff is here to provide you with financial aid options and assistance to help you achieve your educational goals.
News & Events
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