UMass Dartmouth recognized for excellence in cybersecurity

Oct 19, 2020

UMass Dartmouth announced Oct. 19 that the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated the university as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity - Cyber Research (CAE-R) through academic year 2025.

According to a release, the university received this classification through the “demonstrated success and commitment to prepare students to address national challenges related to cybersecurity,” along with advanced faculty research in the field.

“I am proud that UMass Dartmouth has received such a prestigious designation and it is yet another example of how our university is achieving new academic heights,” Acting Chancellor Mark Preble. “This recognition showcases the incredible work being conducted by our faculty, opportunities for our students, and commitment to the greater good.”

In 2019, UMass Dartmouth signed an agreement with the 102nd Intelligence Wing of the Air National Guard stationed at Joint Base Cape Cod to develop education and workforce training in cybersecurity for personnel at the base and university students.

According to the release, the partnership allowed 102nd Intelligence Wing staff and UMass Dartmouth faculty to collaborate on the development of cybersecurity undergraduate and graduate programs, certificates, and concentrations.

“The designation of UMass Dartmouth as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Research is the culmination of a tremendous amount of work on the part of our faculty, particularly Professor Lance Fiondella who led the effort that resulted in this designation,” Acting Provost  Dr. Michael Goodman said. “This recognition reflects the emergence of our College of Engineering as a major player in the critically important field of cyber research.”