OU earns prestigious re-designation as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency

Oakland University has been officially designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-C) by the National Security Agency (NSA) since 2018 and has been re-designated through the 2029 academic year. 

This recognition is part of a national initiative to reduce vulnerability in U.S. information infrastructure by promoting higher education and research in cyber defense and producing a growing number of professionals with cyber defense expertise in various disciplines. 

According to Distinguished Professor Huirong Fu, program coordinator of the M.S. program in Cybersecurity and founding director of the OU Center for Cybersecurity,  the re-designation underscores the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering a secure cyber environment and preparing students for success in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Dr. Fu. “It reflects our university's continuous efforts to meet the highest standards in cybersecurity education and research. The NCAE-C designation positions us as a leader in this critical area and enhances our university's reputation on a national level.” 

Besides recognition and prestige, the NCAE-C designation has brought various benefits to OU since 2018.

• Networking Opportunities: The NCAE-C designation has enabled OU to collaborate with government agencies (e.g., DOE, NSA, and NSF), industry partners, and other CAE institutions. This networking has led to research collaborations, internships, and job placements for students.
  
  
• Access to Resources, Funding and Grants: The NCAE-C designation has enabled OU to have access to additional resources, funding, and grants provided by the NSA and other government agencies to support the development of cybersecurity programs, research initiatives and infrastructure.
  
  
• Student Recruitment: The NCAE-C designation has been attracting more students interested in cybersecurity to select OU for their education. Prospective students view the designation as a sign that the university offers high-quality programs in this critical field.
  
  
• Curriculum Development Support: The NCAE-C designation has enabled OU to receive support and guidance from the NSA in developing and updating their cybersecurity curricula. This can ensure that the programs align with industry needs and the latest advancements in cybersecurity.
  
  
• Competitive Advantage: The NCAE-C designation also provides a competitive advantage for OU when seeking partnerships, grants and research opportunities. It distinguishes OU as a leader in cybersecurity education and research.
  
  
• Participation in Cybersecurity Initiatives: As the NCAE-C institution, OU has been invited to participate in national cybersecurity initiatives, conferences and events. This participation has further enhanced OU's visibility and impact in the cybersecurity community at the national level.
  
  

“This recognition is not just a testament to our commitment to excellence, but also a reflection of the collaborative spirit within our university,” said Dr. Fu. “I am excited about the future contributions we will make in the field of cybersecurity.” 

She added: “I would like to extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success and played a role in our university's cybersecurity initiatives. Your dedication has truly made a significant impact.”