Bloomington Leader

Indiana University's Cybersecurity and Global Policy Program is gaining recognition for its practical approach to preparing students for careers at the intersection of technology and global policymaking. The program, ranked among the top 25 cybersecurity undergraduate programs in the nation, offers a joint degree through the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering and the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies.

Since its inception five years ago, the program has expanded to nearly 300 students, receiving over 400 applications annually. The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is rising rapidly, with more than 500,000 positions open in the U.S. alone. Indiana University aims to address this gap by training future experts equipped to handle cyber threats across various sectors.

Co-led by Isak Nti Asare from the Hamilton Lugar School and Jean Camp from the Luddy School, the program emphasizes creating clear career pathways for students. "What sets a cybersecurity education at IU apart is our unwavering commitment to preparing students, not just to excel in their careers, but to use those skills to lead and serve," said Asare.

The curriculum includes micro-credentials and professional certifications like CompTIA Security +, which are essential for entry-level cybersecurity roles. Public service is integral to the program's mission. The IU Cybersecurity Clinic provides free assistance to public infrastructure entities such as nonprofits and local government agencies.

Joe Scavone, a senior in the program with a background in business administration from Ivy Tech, highlights his journey at IU as transformative. "I needed to go through life and understand what I wanted to give back to the world," he said. His work includes volunteering through IU's Cybersecurity Clinic and participating in Innovation for Impact projects with high-level stakeholders like the Department of Defense.

Scavone's efforts led him to develop a communications device aimed at improving training facilities on a U.S. Army base overseas. He is currently working with IU on securing a patent for his invention.

As Scavone prepares for graduation in May, he reflects on his time at IU: "I think that's the point of going back to school or going to school in general...to figure out where we want to go next."