Clayton State University Approved to Launch Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
(May 6, 2025) - Clayton State University is proud to announce the official approval of its new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program, a significant addition to its academic offerings designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in one of today’s fastest-growing fields. This innovative program aligns with both national workforce needs and the University’s commitment to preparing students for high-impact, future-ready careers.
“The proposed Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills in cybersecurity,” said, Dr. Georj L. Lewis, Claytons State University President. “This program intends to address the growing gap between graduates and job market needs.”
Cybersecurity experts expect demand to remain high this year, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of cybersecurity jobs will grow by 35% between 2021 and 2031. Worldwide, there are about 3.5 million open cybersecurity jobs, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. In the USA, there are 457,433 openings in 2024 requesting cybersecurity-related skills, and employers are struggling to find workers who possess them. On average, cybersecurity roles take 21% longer to fill than other IT jobs due to the lack of candidates.
“The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program emphasizes practical applications and cutting-edge technologies,” said Dr. Ebrahim S. Khosravi, Dean of the College of STEM. “This program will prepare our graduates to tackle the challenges of cybersecurity in various industries and critical data systems."
Georgia is one of America’s elite cybersecurity hubs and ranks No. 3 in the nation for information and data security. Based on CyberSeek, the October 2024 data shows that there were 14,707 job offerings in Georgia. This is a strong indication of how this program will positively impact the community, students, and workforce.
As part of its investment in student success and workforce development, Clayton State University is offering $1,000 to each of the first 25 students admitted to the new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program with a GPA of 3.3 or higher. This targeted support—distributed as $500 per semester—reflects the university’s commitment to removing financial barriers and preparing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
The Clayton State University 2027 Strategic Plan focuses on four priority areas: Building Academic and Career Pathways, Growing Enrollment, Driving Student Success and Social Mobility, and Increasing Community and Corporate Engagement. The BS Cybersecurity program aligns perfectly with these priorities by preparing students for careers in cybersecurity, enabling them to serve communities with their cybersecurity knowledge and skills, and equipping them with essential self-development abilities.
Clayton State University currently offers a Cyber Security Certificate, AAS-IT, BAS-Technology Management, BIT, MS in Cyber Technology, Cybersecurity and Networking Security Concentration, and BS in Computer Science. These programs provide opportunities for graduates from AAS-IT to advance their studies towards a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity. Additionally, students of BAS-Technology Management can also expand their skillset to include cybersecurity and have the chance to study the full spectrum of cybersecurity. The College of STEM currently offers a certificate and post-baccalaureate in Cybersecurity, and we are pleased with the opportunity to further serve interested students in this growing field with an accredited Bachelor of Science degree.
Learn more about the College of STEM and our course and program offerings.