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International Journal of Advanced Artificial Intelligence Research

Open Access Peer Review International
Open Access

EVALUATING A FOUNDATIONAL PROGRAM FOR CYBERSECURITY EDUCATION: A PILOT STUDY OF A 'CYBER BRIDGE' INITIATIVE

DOI https://doi.org/10.55640/ijaair-v02i03-01
pdf
Prof. Robert J. Mitchell 1 ,
4 School of Computing and Cybersecurity, University of Texas at San Antonio, USA

Abstract

The escalating demand for cybersecurity professionals significantly outpaces the supply of qualified talent, creating a critical skills gap in the global workforce. Traditional educational pathways often require extensive computer science backgrounds, limiting access for individuals from diverse academic disciplines. To address this, specialized "bridge" programs have emerged, designed to equip non-traditional candidates with foundational knowledge necessary to pursue advanced cybersecurity studies or careers. This article presents a pilot evaluation of one such 'Cyber Bridge' initiative, examining its effectiveness in preparing participants from varied academic backgrounds for entry into the cybersecurity field. Through a mixed-methods approach involving pre- and post-assessments, participant surveys, and tracking of progression outcomes, the study evaluated the program's impact on foundational cybersecurity knowledge, technical skill acquisition, and perceived career readiness. Preliminary results indicate significant improvements in participants' understanding of core cybersecurity concepts and practical abilities, along with high levels of satisfaction and successful transitions to advanced programs or relevant employment. While acknowledging the pilot nature and scale, the findings underscore the vital role of 'cyber bridge' programs in diversifying and expanding the cybersecurity talent pipeline, offering a viable model for workforce development.

Keywords

Cybersecurity education, foundational program, Cyber Bridge initiative, pilot study

References

NYU Tandon School of Engineering, “NYU Tandon Bridge,” [Online]. Available: https://engineering.nyu.edu/academics/programs/nyu-tandon-bridge. [Accessed : March 19, 2025].
Hampton University, "Cyber Security," [Online]. Available: https://home.hamptonu.edu/online/cyber-security/. [Accessed : March 19, 2025].
Roosevelt University, "Cyber Security Bridge Program," [Online]. Available: https://catalog.roosevelt.edu/graduate/health-science/bridgeprogram/cyber-security-bridge-program/. [Accessed : March 19, 2025].
Penn State World Campus, "Penn State Online Information Systems Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate," [Online]. Available: https://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/penn-state-online-information-systems-cybersecurity-graduate-certificate
University of Rhode Island, "ONRAMP Computer Science Program," [Online]. Available: https://web.uri.edu/cs/academics/onramp/. [Accessed : March 19, 2025].
Norfolk State University, "Handshake Career Services," [Online]. Available: https://www.nsu.edu/Campus-Life/Services-and-Resources/Career-Services/Handshake/. [Accessed : March 19, 2025].

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