Cybersecurity SAU Tech

Train to Protect Data, Networks, and Critical Infrastructure

The Cybersecurity program at Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) offers a powerful starting point for a high-demand career in cyber defense, information security, and network protection. With a curriculum built for both certification preparation and university transfer, this program gives students the technical expertise and hands-on training needed to defend against modern cyber threats in business, industry, and government sectors.

Graduates are prepared to pursue careers or continue their education in computer security, network defense, IT support, and forensics—making this program ideal for those seeking entry-level roles or long-term growth in a booming technology field.

Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to grow rapidly across all industries. Job opportunities for graduates include:

  • Information Security Analyst
  • Network Security Administrator
  • Cybersecurity Technician
  • Incident Response Specialist
  • Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)
  • Forensics or Malware Analyst
  • IT Support with Security Focus
  • Systems Engineer (Security Track)

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of information security is expected to grow much faster than average, offering excellent pay and job security.

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Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students

Multiple scholarships are available to support students pursuing cybersecurity and related IT degrees:

Tip: Start applying early. Many cybersecurity scholarships are competitive and require essays, recommendation letters, or personal statements.

  • Arkansas High Tech Scholarship

    $2,000 total ($500/year)


    Requires 2.5+ GPA, 19+ ACT (or 730+ SAT), and Arkansas residency

  • Department of Defense SMART Scholarship

    Covers tuition, books, insurance, and includes a paid internship


    Highly competitive STEM scholarship

  • Women’s Cyber Security Scholarship (ISC²)

    Up to $5,000 for undergraduate women in cybersecurity or information assurance


    Requires 3.3+ GPA, resume, recommendation, and essay

  • Palantir Women in Tech Scholarship

    Up to $7,000 for women in CS or related fields


    Must submit transcript, resume, and personal essay

  • AFCEA Cybersecurity Scholarship

    Up to $5,000 for undergraduates with a 3.0+ GPA in cybersecurity/STEM fields


    Requires letters of recommendation and online application

  • Infosec Cybersecurity Scholarship Program

    Offered in partnership with CompTIA


    Includes resume, essay, recommendations, and statement of career goals

Cybersecurity Program Overview

  • Degrees and Certificates Offered:
  • AAS in Cybersecurity – Full associate degree with hands-on lab and transfer options
  • Technical Certificate in Cybersecurity
  • Certificate of Proficiency in Cybersecurity
  • Available Format: In-person and affordable online options
  • Lab Access: Includes access to a Cyber Range virtual training environment
  • Transfer Pathway: Designed for seamless transfer to four-year universities
  • Recognition:
  • Rated one of the most affordable online cybersecurity degrees
  • in the U.S. by OnlineU

What You’ll Learn In Cybersecurity

SAU Tech’s Cybersecurity curriculum combines technical skills, cybersecurity theory, ethical training, and industry-standard tools to give students a complete foundation in protecting digital infrastructure.

Core focus areas include:

  • Cybersecurity fundamentals and protocols
  • Network infrastructure and administration
  • Operating systems security (Windows & Linux)
  • Vulnerability scanning and threat detection
  • Digital forensics and incident response
  • Legal and ethical considerations in cybersecurity
  • Structured programming languages and scripting
  • Security risk analysis and mitigation strategies

Students also prepare for internationally recognized IT certifications in areas like Security+, Network+, and Linux administration.

Train in a Cyber Range Lab

SAU Tech partners with CyberBit to offer a Cyber Range virtual lab, where students simulate real-world cyberattacks and practice defending networks in live environments. These advanced labs are used by government agencies, defense contractors, and tech companies to train cybersecurity professionals—giving SAU Tech students a competitive edge rarely found at two-year colleges.

  • Program Goal

    Provide students with the technical skills to protect and defend networks, devices, and sensitive data


    Prepare students to detect, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats in both enterprise and government environments

  • Program Learning Outcome

    Graduates will be able to:


    Analyze and evaluate emerging cybersecurity threats using critical thinking


    Use tools and methods in Information Assurance, Computer Forensics, and Security


    Apply programming logic and structured languages in a security context


    Implement best practices for network, system, and human security


    Assess risk and develop plans to maintain operations during cyberattacks

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Why Choose SAU Tech for Cybersecurity?

  • Cyber Range hands-on training not commonly offered at two-year colleges
  • Prepares for nationally recognized certifications
  • Transfer-ready degree with flexible online and on-campus options
  • Affordability ranked among the best in the nation
  • Ideal for students seeking fast-track job entry or advanced university study

Take the Next Step Toward a Career in Cybersecurity

Need help understanding certification options or scholarship applications? Our program advisors are here to support your goals every step of the way.

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