ITM—Cybersecurity Specialization


Learn how to protect data assets and ensure the integrity of digital infrastructures with a Cybersecurity specialization, offered with both a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology Management.

From intensive coursework to real-world cybersecurity scenarios, we go beyond traditional education to provide you with opportunities working on actual cybersecurity cases, testing your skills, learning from mistakes, and evolving as a cyber specialist. Open doors to potential employment opportunities and establish yourself in the IT and cybersecurity field to create a safer, more secure digital world. 

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IT Management Department

Samuelson 206

At the Center of a Better Future

What You'll Study

Academic Catalog | Information Technology Management

 

BS vs. BAS


A Bachelor of Science (BS) gives you a strong academic and theoretical foundation, often preparing you for grad school or careers in research. A Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) builds on a technical associate degree and focuses more on real-world skills. It’s a good option if you’ve done hands-on training and want to move up in your career or into leadership roles. Both are four-year degrees.

 

FlexIT in IT Management


The FlexIT program offers a flexible, flexibly-paced way to gain essential tech and leadership skills, designed to fit your life and work commitments.

Explore key areas of IT management, including network security, data management, and leadership strategies, through real-world scenarios, case studies, and hands-on projects. This practical approach builds the confidence and expertise needed to thrive in dynamic tech environments.

Unlike traditional programs, FlexIT focuses on what you know rather than time spent in class. Fully online and untied to academic quarters, the program lets you accelerate through modules by demonstrating your knowledge and completing projects when you're ready. Upon completion, you'll be equipped to lead and adapt in the ever-evolving IT field.

High Demand

As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, acquire the advanced skills and knowledge necessary to meet the increasing demand for highly skilled cybersecurity professionals, ready to safeguard systems and data in today's digital world.

Comprehensive Knowledge

Gain comprehensive knowledge of security protocols, risk management strategies, and network defense techniques to safeguard systems and data in an increasingly digital world.

IT 336 – Digital Forensics

Explore how to uncover hidden data and analyze digital devices. Learn techniques for retrieving deleted information and detecting methods of digital concealment.

Hands-On Learning

Engage in hands-on projects like ethical hacking, network monitoring, and incident response to build practical, real-world cybersecurity skills.

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Career

Preparation

Equip yourself with both technical skills and management training to take on leadership roles in cybersecurity.

Expert

Faculty

Study under instructors with extensive experience in IT security and real-world cybersecurity challenges.

Practical

Experience

Engage in hands-on labs and internships that provide experience with real-world cybersecurity issues and solutions.

Why Study Information Technology Management at Central?


  • CWU’s IT Management program combines technical IT knowledge with essential leadership skills, offering hands-on learning experiences that prepare you to solve real-world challenges.
  • The career-focused curriculum is designed by industry experts, equipping you for roles such as IT manager, systems analyst, or executive positions if you pursue advanced degrees.
  • Challenge yourself with industry-based knowledge and projects that will help you solve problems and build your confidence in leadership and management roles. 
  • With both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Applied Science options, as well as nine minors and certificate programs, CWU offers multiple pathways to enhance your professional qualifications. 

Recent Careers of CWU Graduates


 

IT Specialist – Department of Homeland Security

Recruiter – SpaceX

Technical Program Manager – Xbox

Cyber/Information Security Analyst – Costco

JR Data Analyst – Catholic Charities

BI Engineer II – Amazon

Data Center Operations Manager – Microsoft

 

 

Commitment to a Sustainable World


Central Washington University is committed to integrating sustainability across academics, operations, and campus life. Many CWU programs embed sustainability-related concepts, skills, and applied learning that prepare students to think critically about their impact on the world around them.

CWU is nationally recognized for this work through the AASHE STARS Gold rating, reflecting our dedication to transparency, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.

Sustainability courses include:

  • IT 632 Sustainable IT
  • IT 111 Your Digital Footprint and the Web
  • ADMG 571 Global Administrative Policy
  • ADMG 681 Social Informatics
  • ADMG 285 Sustainable Decision Making
  • ADMG 445 Applied IT Sustainability

Learn more about CWU’s sustainability efforts through the Office of Sustainability, explore CWU’s national sustainability recognition, or view the full AASHE STARS report.