NSA, DHS name eight new National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

The National Security Agency (NSA), along with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), recently designated eight academic institutions as NSA/DHS National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense.

The designation is part of the president’s Cybersecurity National Action Plan which aims to raise the level of cybersecurity capabilities across the nation. The two agencies partner with academic institutions to enhance cybersecurity education nationwide and to develop future cybersecurity professionals.

The eight institutions are Augusta University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida International University, Middle Georgia State University, the University of Delaware, Clark State Community College, Lake Superior College and Red Rocks Community College.

“The nation looks forward to the graduates of these programs leading our cybersecurity efforts and keeping our digital infrastructure secure through positions in industry, academia, and government, both civilian and military,” the NSA said in a written statement.