Point Park University

What you'll study

This four-year Bachelor programme mixes foundational science and technology subjects with applied security specialisms. Core areas include network security, systems administration, digital forensics, ethical hacking, programming fundamentals, and security management. You will also study risk assessment and mitigation, incident response, physical security design, cybersecurity law and policy, and intelligence analysis.

Teaching is project- and lab-oriented. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Introductory computing and programming – building skills in scripting and software tools used in analysis and automation.
• Network architectures and security – understanding protocols, hardening techniques and defensive measures for enterprise networks.
• Digital forensics – evidence collection, imaging, recovery techniques and preparation for legal processes.
• Ethical hacking and vulnerability assessment – hands-on penetration testing and vulnerability scanning in controlled environments.
• Security management and policy – governance, compliance, business continuity and the human factors of security.
• Risk analysis and incident response – threat modelling, tabletop exercises and coordinated response planning.
• Emerging technologies – topics such as internet-of-things (IoT) security, cloud security and mobile device protection.
• Capstone project and practicum – applied team project addressing a real-world security problem and a supervised internship or industry placement.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical preparation includes study of mathematics, computer science, information technology or physical sciences where available. Admissions consider overall academic record, relevant coursework and any technical experience or certifications.

Transfer applicants should provide college transcript(s) and descriptions of prior coursework. Mature applicants with relevant workplace experience in IT, security or law enforcement are considered and may be invited to discuss their background. As many roles and placements involve working with sensitive information, some students may need to complete background checks for practicum or internship placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of operational, technical and managerial roles across government, private industry and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Cybersecurity analyst / threat analyst
• Digital forensics examiner / e-discovery specialist
• Incident response coordinator / security operations centre (SOC) staff
• Security consultant or vulnerability assessor
• Network administrator with a security specialism
• Physical security planner and risk assessor
• Compliance officer or information assurance specialist
• Roles supporting law enforcement and intelligence agencies in technical investigations

The programme emphasises certifications, portfolio development and internship experience to help graduates transition into entry-level professional roles or continue to postgraduate study in cybersecurity, criminal justice or related fields.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s downtown Pittsburgh location places students close to a concentration of technology firms, financial institutions and public-sector agencies that recruit security and IT graduates. The university emphasises small-class instruction and applied learning: expect lab work, team projects and faculty who bring industry experience into the classroom.

Students benefit from access to hands-on facilities, dedicated career services and opportunities for internships and cooperative placements with local employers. The programme’s applied capstone and practicum elements are designed to build workplace-ready skills and a professional portfolio that helps graduates stand out to employers in the security field.