Learn to create and maintain secure networks and ways to track down hackers who aim to breach that security.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity Degree

A major in the Computer and Information Technology Program
in the Department of Computer and Information Technology

This major is also available at the Purdue in Indianapolis campus. Learn more here.

Keeping data secure is an important goal of any good IT system. Once a system has been breached, personal, financial or classified data becomes vulnerable to exploitation. When you major in cybersecurity at Purdue University, you will learn the skills to create and maintain secure networks as well as ways to track down hackers who aim to breach that security.

The demand for professionals with cybersecurity skills is high, and it will continue to grow as more companies and industries work to safeguard their records and their reputations. The cybersecurity plan of study at Purdue will be able to help meet this need by providing a comprehensive IT education that also emphasizes key security concepts. The major’s holistic approach combines skills such as secure coding, cryptography, digital forensics and UNIX fundamentals with analytical thinking and criminology.

You will have plenty of opportunity for hands-on projects. Whether you are testing vulnerabilities or creating a new security protocol, you will put theories into practice daily. Because of industry partnerships, you will have access to internships that will put your cybersecurity knowledge to use quickly. 

Special Features

  • Our cybersecurity major is ranked the sixth best in the nation, by US News and World Report
  • Learn in small, close-knit classes that feature individualized attention
  • Work in industry-standard labs to gain the best hands-on experience
  • Take advantage of a variety campus-based internships, including one focused on the State of Indiana’s computer network
  • Use the program’s stellar reputation and coursework to provide greater chances at employment after graduation
  • Learn from world-class cybersecurity and industry experts
  • Utilize the Polytechnic learning environment to become a career-ready graduate

What can I do?

Digital Security Consultant
Systems Security Engineer
IT Security Operator
Security Consultant
Incident Response Consultant

Where can I go?

Cisco
Apple
FBI
Deloitte

ABET

The computer and information technology program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission’s general criteria and program criteria for Information Technology and similarly named computing programs.

I chose to major in cybersecurity because I’ve always loved working with computers and solving problems. Cybersecurity allows me to combine the two; it is one giant cyber puzzle that is always changing. I especially like how interactive the classes are!
Emily Hoy
Cybersecurity
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About the school/department

The Department of Computer and Information Technology provides educational opportunities that apply information technology to solve societal challenges. From cyber forensics and Big Data, to databases and analytics, impactful research is improving society and enriching the constantly updated academic programs.

Additional Information

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Talk to a Student Services Professional

Prospective students

Prospective students can reach out to cit@purdue.edu to request an appointment to speak with a Department of Computer and Information Technology student services professional.

Current students

Current students can schedule an appointment to meet with academic advisors in person or virtually via BoilerConnect.

Learn more about advising

Related Degrees

Continuing Education