Self-motivation, curiosity, and resilience are vital qualities for students to succeed in cybersecurity. This broad field focuses on ensuring the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of information systems and networks against various threats, including attacks, accidents, and failures. The primary goal of cybersecurity is to protect operations and assets by employing a range of technologies, processes, and policies. As our reliance on internet applications and systems grows, alongside the emergence of complex technologies and cyber infrastructures that can be difficult to secure, the importance of cybersecurity becomes even more critical. Furthermore, cybercriminals are continually adapting to these advancements by using automated, coordinated, and sophisticated methods to carry out cyberattacks that range from minor data breaches to large-scale disruptions.

Given this ever-evolving landscape, I have found that blended learning has significantly improved student outcomes in my classroom. This dynamic approach connects theoretical concepts with real-world applications in computing and cybersecurity, creating an engaging learning environment. It aligns perfectly with the PASSHE mission, emphasizing collaboration between employers and universities and enriching the student experience. Ultimately, this strategy enhances student engagement and success while actively contributing to the development of a skilled workforce.

As a key component of this strategy, students participate in real-world projects that encourage collaboration with peers to apply software development life-cycle processes and methodologies, including artificial intelligence, to identify common programming errors and evaluate software testing tools. This project-centric approach consists of multiple phases for designing and implementing software assurance practices. As a result, students gain hands-on experience, integrating AI into their projects—ranging from coding to theoretical threat modeling—using real or synthetic datasets for pattern recognition and automated defense.

Beyond these crucial technical capabilities, other skills are critically important for students’ long-term success, especially in today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, where adaptability and continuous upskilling are as vital as technical skills. These other skills help students build analytical foundations, foster relationships, and develop leadership abilities, enabling them to make strategic decisions to overcome complex real-time challenges. Consequently, this makes them more resilient in the face of industry demands and changes.

These vital skills are further refined and put into practice through Slippery Rock University’s Center for Cybersecurity and Advanced Computing (C2AC), launched in 2018, which addresses issues related to cybersecurity and high-performance computing through collaborative research and interdisciplinary academic initiatives. We encourage students to seek mentorship and participate in research and events. Thus far, they have gained invaluable experiences that are often unique for undergraduate students.

Through this comprehensive journey, students learn to apply effective principles to achieve their goals—skills essential to cybersecurity professionals. We continuously update our curriculum to reflect impactful learning objectives and workforce development standards that are highly sought after in both the private and public sectors, within the state and across the nation.