The University of Arizona is a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity.
The National Security Agency has named the University of Arizona as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, with designations for Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) and Research (CAE-R)—one of only 11 institutions that hold all three designations.
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations (Cyber Engineering emphasis) holds the CAE-CO designation, one of only 23 universities nationwide to receive that prestigious credential. The CAE-CO program is a deeply technical, interdisciplinary, higher education program firmly grounded in the computer science, computer engineering and/or electrical engineering disciplines, with extensive opportunities for hands-on applications via labs and exercises.
Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO)
The University of Arizona is nationally recognized as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (CAE-CO). The CAE-CO designation is awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of War to institutions that meet the highest standards of academic rigor and technical depth in cybersecurity education. The University of Arizona is one of 21 CAE-CO-designated institutions.
What the CAE-CO Designation Means
The CAE-CO designation signifies that the University of Arizona’s Cyber Operations program delivers advanced, technically sophisticated education tailored to today’s most critical cybersecurity challenges. The CAE-CO designation reflects the University of Arizona’s commitment to:
- High-level technical curriculum grounded in computer science, engineering, and security fundamentals.
- Hands-on learning opportunities through labs, simulations, and real-world exercises.
- An interdisciplinary approach that prepares students for complex cyber operations roles across public and private sectors.
The CAE-CO designation signals that the University’s programs not only meet but also exceed nationally defined academic and technical criteria for preparing future cyber professionals. Graduates emerge with a strong foundation in offensive and defensive cyber operations, ready to protect critical infrastructure and respond to real-world challenges.
Exclusive National Recognition
As a CAE-CO institution, the University of Arizona:
- Joins an elite network of programs with NSA recognition in cyber operations.
- Enhances student competitiveness for scholarships, internships, and career opportunities with government and industry partners.
- Demonstrates sustained excellence through ongoing evaluation and renewal of the designation.