Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations - Defense and Forensics in Tucson United States | University of Arizona

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Operations offers a Defense and Forensics specialization among three available tracks. This cybersecurity-focused program teaches students to protect digital systems and networks while mastering methods for gathering and examining digital evidence. Using an advanced virtual learning platform called Cyberapolis, Cyber Operations students engage in simulated cyberattacks and defenses to understand system weaknesses and protection strategies. The Defense and Forensics curriculum meets the rigorous standards set by the National Security Agency's Centers of Academic Excellence in both Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) and Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
Analytical Skills & Solutions Development, Show proficiency in assessing how variables influence results, detecting unusual activities, working with multivariable calculus, and solving challenging problems through programming and scripting.
Cyber Threat Analysis, Explain and apply techniques for gathering, examining, and sharing information about attackers' motives and tactics to safeguard organizational resources within network infrastructures.
Network Defense Strategies, Outline, assess, and implement protective network designs with layered security measures tailored to organizational security objectives.
Digital Investigations, Illustrate and justify procedures for obtaining valid forensic copies, tracing user actions, detecting system compromises, uncovering attack traces, and retrieving concealed or erased data.
Legal & Ethical Considerations, Discuss the intersection of digital ethics and legislation, consequences of unauthorized system access, and analyze situations where technological advancements outpace legal frameworks.
Malware Analysis, Conduct secure examinations of suspicious software, including disguised malicious code, to determine its purpose and operation.
Network Fundamentals, Exhibit comprehensive knowledge of network architecture across all layers, data transmission processes, protocol functionality, and the hierarchical relationship between network levels.
Cyber Offense Tactics, Describe and illustrate offensive cyber operation stages, including required permissions and post-operation evaluation methods.
System Architecture & Advanced Programming, Display in-depth knowledge of operating systems and develop sophisticated low-level applications capable of exploiting identified security gaps.
Security Foundations & Weaknesses, Demonstrate and clarify different vulnerability types, their origins, the relationship between security concepts, and how design flaws can create opportunities for cyber attacks.