Cyber Science Major Standardization v1.0 Cyber Science Major As a Cyber Science major at West Point, you will move from mastering network security and cyber theory to protecting critical systems in the Army’s digital battlespace. Through hands-on cyber labs, operational internships, and mission-focused projects, you will prepare to lead Soldiers and defend the networks that enable modern warfare.Apply to the AcademyConnect with Our Admissions Team Breadcrumb cyber science major standardization v10 academics-sidebarnav MENU Academic Program Majors & Minors Annual Theme Enrichment Opportunities Internships Military Immersion & Exchange Scholars Program Service Academy Exchange Program Departments Overview Program Enrichment Cyber Science at West PointDefend the network. Secure the mission. Lead in the digital battlespace.Cyber Science at West Point prepares cadets to operate, defend, and lead in the Army’s cyber domain. Through an ABET-accredited curriculum integrating cybersecurity, network services, cyber operations, cryptology, and policy, cadets develop the technical depth and leadership judgment required to protect critical digital infrastructure.This is applied cyber education built for operational impact.Quick Facts:Degree: Bachelor of ScienceDepartment: Electrical Engineering and Computer ScienceProgram Length: 4 yearsAccreditation: Computing Accreditation Commission of ABETLab-Intensive CurriculumHonors Track AvailableWhy This Major MattersModern military operations depend on secure networks and resilient digital systems. Cyber threats affect tactical communications, logistics platforms, and strategic infrastructure. Cyber Science majors learn to analyze vulnerabilities, defend networks, conduct operations in cyberspace, and understand the legal and ethical dimensions of cyber conflict.Graduates commission prepared to lead in the Cyber Corps and other technical branches where digital security directly affects mission success.Core Themes and Focus AreasDefensive and offensive cyber operationsNetwork architecture and secure communicationsCryptology and applied mathematicsCloud systems and distributed infrastructureCyber policy, strategy, and lawRisk assessment and threat analysisLeadership in contested digital environmentsCadet Perspective (example placeholder)“Cyber Science at West Point challenged me to think strategically about technology and risk. I learned how to defend systems under pressure and lead teams responsible for real operational networks.”— Cyber Science Major, Class of 20XXGet more informationThe West Point AdvantageCyber Science at West Point integrates technical rigor with officer development and operational exposure.Hands-On Cyber Operations From Day OneCadets configure networks, assess vulnerabilities, and conduct defensive exercises early in the curriculum.Advanced projects mirror operational cyber missions and require disciplined planning and execution.Faculty With Operational ExpertiseFaculty include Army cyber and signal officers and cybersecurity scholars with deployed experience and leadership in major Army technology programs.Cadets learn from instructors who understand real-world cyber operations.Small Classes, Direct MentorshipSmall, discussion-driven courses foster close faculty interaction and personalized feedback.Mentorship extends beyond the classroom into research, internships, and career advising.Research and Operational InternshipsCadets engage with the Army Cyber Institute, Cyber Research Center, and secure cyber laboratories.Through Academic Individual Advanced Development internships, students work with Army Cyber Command and national laboratories on network defense, anomaly detection, and emerging technologies.Leadership Embedded in Cyber EducationTechnical coursework is paired with policy, legal, and ethical considerations.Cadets learn not only how to secure systems, but how to lead Soldiers responsible for operating them.The Journey Continues: From Cyber Science to Commissioned OfficerService first. Responsibility early. Impact that endures.Cyber Science majors commission as Army officers entrusted with protecting digital systems that support real-world missions.Commissioning PathwaysCyber Science aligns with branches operating in the digital domain:Cyber CorpsLead teams conducting defensive and offensive cyber operations.Signal CorpsManage secure communications networks that enable mission command.Military IntelligenceApply cyber analysis and data exploitation to inform operational planning.Engineer CorpsIntegrate cyber capabilities into infrastructure and operational systems.AviationOversee digital mission systems supporting aviation operations.Acquisition and Program ManagementManage development and procurement of cybersecurity and software systems.Learn how commissioning worksPost-Graduate OpportunitiesCyber Science majors compete for scholarships such as:National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate FellowshipRhodes ScholarshipMarshall ScholarshipOfficers may pursue Army-funded master’s degrees in cybersecurity, computer science, artificial intelligence, and related technical fields.Assignments with Army Cyber Command, the Army Cyber Institute, and Army Research Laboratory provide opportunities to deepen expertise while continuing to serve.Explore Scholarships and Graduate OpportunitiesWhat Cyber Science Officers Do: Across a CareerEarly Career: Lead and DefendAs a second lieutenant, you may lead a platoon responsible for enterprise network defense supporting hundreds or thousands of users. You manage personnel, systems, and risk while ensuring secure operations in training and deployed environments.Mid-Career: Command and SpecializeAs a captain, you may command a company or serve on brigade staffs overseeing cyber operations and information protection. Officers frequently pursue advanced technical education and serve in joint cyber task forces or research assignments.Senior Career: Shape Strategy and ModernizationAt senior levels, Cyber Science officers influence how the Army secures its digital infrastructure and integrates emerging technologies. Roles may include strategic planning, program executive offices, and senior staff positions affecting cyber readiness across the force.Questions Prospective Cadets AskClear answers to help you decide and move forward with confidence.Do I need prior coding or cybersecurity experience?No. The program builds knowledge step by step. Discipline and curiosity matter more than prior experience.What sets Cyber Science at West Point apart?You receive rigorous cyber education while preparing to lead Soldiers responsible for secure systems in operational environments.What happens after graduation?You commission as a second lieutenant. Many majors branch into the Cyber Corps or Signal Corps, with others serving in Military Intelligence or related technical branches.How early can I participate in internships?Cadets typically participate in Academic Individual Advanced Development internships during summers after yearling or cow year with Army cyber organizations and research laboratories.Is research required?All majors complete an integrative design sequence. Additional research opportunities are widely available.Can I add a minor?Yes. Many cadets pursue minors such as Computer Science, Artificial Intefields.How selective is this major?The program is rigorous but open to motivated cadets willing to work hard and think critically.What does it cost?West Point provides a fully funded education in exchange for service after graduation.Ready to Lead? Start Your Journey at West PointApply today to pursue a Cyber Science major while gaining world-class leadership training, a fully funded education, and a career-launching experience. Admission is competitive, but this major is open to all cadets who meet USMA’s academic, physical, and leadership standards.Key Deadlines:Feb. 15 – Application & Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) openApril 15 – SLE application closesFall (Senior Year) – Nomination applications dueJan. 31 (Senior Year) – Candidate Checklist deadlineView full admissions requirementsTake the First StepStarting the application does not commit you to a major. It opens the door to guidance, advising, and a clearer picture of your path forward.Begin your journey in STEM at West PointGet answers to your questionsDiscover West Point for yourselfResources for Current CadetsDepartment of Electrical & Engineering Science HomepagePrimary hub for courses, faculty, research areas, and announcements.Major Curriculum & Sample Course PlansHelps cadets visualize workload, sequencing, and honors options.Contact Cyber Science Major AdvisorDirect link to schedule a meeting with a faculty advisor or major director. What You’ll StudyThe curriculum progresses from programming and network fundamentals to advanced cybersecurity, cyber operations, cryptology, and policy. Cadets build technical competence while integrating legal and ethical considerations into cyber decision-making.How the Curriculum Builds Your ExpertiseFoundational Knowledge: Programming, discrete mathematics, network architecture, digital logic.Advanced Application: Defensive and offensive cyber operations, cloud systems, applied cryptology.Leadership and Military Relevance: Cyber policy, law, and operational planning integrated into technical training.Course HighlightsCourseWhat You'll LearnCY300 Programming FundamentalsConfigure secure communication networks.CY350 Computer NetworksConfigure secure communication networks.CY392 Defensive Cyber OperationsDetect and respond to cyber threats.CY482 Offensive Cyber OperationsConduct controlled offensive exercises.CY394 Cloud ComputingSecure distributed enterprise systems.MA464 Applied Algebra with CryptologyApply cryptographic principles to secure communications.CY460 Cyber Policy, Strategy, and OperationsEvaluate legal and strategic considerations shaping cyber operations.XE401 and XE402 Integrative System DesignLead a team delivering a complete cyber computing solution.View the full Cyber Science course catalogYear-by-Year SnapshotThis progression builds foundational knowledge first, advances to applied technical skills, and culminates with leadership-focused projects.First Year – FoundationsMathematics and introductory computing.Second Year – Core Cyber SystemsNetworks, discrete math, cybersecurity foundations.Third Year – Applied Cyber OperationsApplied cyber operations, cloud systems, cryptology.Senior Year – Integration and Strategic PerspectiveAdvanced electives and integrative system design.Capstone and Integrative ExperienceCyber Science majors complete a two-course integrative design sequence. Teams define requirements, assess vulnerabilities, design secure architectures, implement solutions, and present results. Projects emphasize disciplined testing, risk assessment, and leadership in delivering secure systems.View the full EECS curriculum in the USMA Red BookFaculty and MentorshipCyber Science at West Point emphasizes close mentorship and operational relevance. Small class sizes foster disciplined analysis and individualized mentorship. Faculty guide cadets through coursework, internships, and research aligned with Army cyber priorities.Meet the FacultyThe department is led by COL Christa Chewar, an experienced Signal officer with deployed cyber and acquisition experience. Faculty include Army cyber officers and cybersecurity scholars affiliated with the Army Cyber Institute and Cyber Research Center.Department CultureThe department fosters disciplined problem-solving, ethical responsibility, and applied innovation. Faculty know cadets by name and challenge them to think critically while connecting cyber theory to operational realities.Faculty AchievementsFaculty lead research initiatives through the Army Cyber Institute and Cyber Research Center, linking cadets to real Army and Department of Defense sponsors.Many instructors have served in deployed cyber and signal assignments, bringing practical insight directly into labs and capstone design.Faculty-guided cadet projects are routinely presented at Projects Day and professional cybersecurity forums.Student-faculty collaboration frequently extends into Academic Individual Advanced Development internships supporting cyber operations and emerging technology initiatives.View full faculty directoryExpand Your ExpertiseCyber Science majors may tailor their academic path through electives, honors research, and complementary minors. Each pathway combines technical depth with applied system design, preparing cadets to operate and lead in complex digital environments.Pair With a MinorComplementary MinorOpportunityCyber SecurityDeepen expertise in network defense, threat analysis, and secure architecture.Access the Cyber Hub and hands-on cyber laboratories for defensive and offensive training.Artificial IntelligenceDevelop advanced skills in machine learning and data engineering.Engage in applied AI research within EECS laboratories and the Army Cyber Institute.Computer ScienceStrengthen software development and systems design foundations.Work in advanced programming and systems labs supporting secure application development.RoboticsIntegrate cyber capabilities with autonomous systems and embedded platforms.Utilize robotics laboratories focused on sensors, control systems, and secure device integration.Data ScienceEnhance quantitative analysis and evidence-based cyber decision-making.Use advanced analytics tools and computational laboratories to interpret operational datasets.Ready to Lead? Start Your Journey at West PointApply today to pursue a Cyber Science major while gaining world-class leadership training, a fully funded education, and a career-launching experience. Admission is competitive, but this major is open to all cadets who meet USMA’s academic, physical, and leadership standards.Key Deadlines:Feb. 15 – Application & Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) openApril 15 – SLE application closesFall (Senior Year) – Nomination applications dueJan. 31 (Senior Year) – Candidate Checklist deadlineView full admissions requirementsTake the First StepStarting the application does not commit you to a major. It opens the door to guidance, advising, and a clearer picture of your path forward.Begin your journey in STEM at West PointGet answers to your questionsDiscover West Point for yourselfResources for Current CadetsDepartment of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science HomepagePrimary hub for courses, faculty, research areas, and announcements.Major Curriculum & Sample Course PlansHelps cadets visualize workload, sequencing, and honors options.Contact Cyber Science Major AdvisorDirect link to schedule a meeting with a faculty advisor or major director. Experience Cyber Science in Action at West PointCyber Science majors train in realistic cyber labs, participate in operational internships, and lead teams responsible for defending digital systems under real constraints.This is not abstract cybersecurity education. It is applied cyber leadership shaped by service, accountability, and real operational responsibility.Hands-On OpportunitiesExperienceWhat You'll Do / Why It MattersInternshipsAssignments with Army Cyber Command and research laboratories focused on network defense and emerging technologies.ResearchFaculty-mentored projects in secure systems, artificial intelligence, and cloud security.LeadershipProject leadership within integrative design and the Corps of Cadets.Global ProgramsParticipation in multinational cyber exercises and interagency internships.Interdisciplinary OpportunitiesCyber Science majors collaborate with cadets in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, and Data Science. Projects often integrate network defense, embedded systems, artificial intelligence, and decision analysis, reflecting how complex Army problems require cross-domain solutions.PartnershipsThe department partners with Army research laboratories, acquisition offices, and industry leaders. Explore cadet researchCadet Life in This MajorDepartment ClubsCyber Science majors are active in the Information Assurance student chapter of the Association for Computing Machinery and the Cadet Competitive Cyber Team.These organizations foster technical skill development, teamwork, and national-level cyber competition experience.Co-Curricular ExperiencesCadets participate in cyber defense exercises, capture-the-flag competitions, and applied system design challenges that extend learning beyond the classroom.These experiences reinforce collaboration, resilience, and problem-solving under pressure.Professional AssociationsEligible cadets may join honor societies such as Upsilon Pi Epsilon and other discipline-focused organizations.These affiliations connect cadets with broader professional cybersecurity communities and recognize academic achievement.Community and Department EventsThe department hosts guest lectures, research showcases, and operational briefings that connect cadets with Army leaders, cyber professionals, and industry experts.These events strengthen professional identity and shared purpose.Conferences and Immersion ExperiencesCadets present research at cybersecurity conferences, participate in national cyber competitions, and engage in immersive internships during the summer.These experiences build confidence, technical depth, and professional networks early in an officer’s career.Explore more cadet experiencesReady to Lead? Start Your Journey at West PointApply today to pursue a Cyber Science major while gaining world-class leadership training, a fully funded education, and a career-launching experience. Admission is competitive, but this major is open to all cadets who meet USMA’s academic, physical, and leadership standards.Key Deadlines:Feb. 15 – Application & Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) openApril 15 – SLE application closesFall (Senior Year) – Nomination applications dueJan. 31 (Senior Year) – Candidate Checklist deadlineView full admissions requirementsTake the First StepStarting the application does not commit you to a major. It opens the door to guidance, advising, and a clearer picture of your path forward.Begin your journey in STEM at West PointGet answers to your questionsDiscover West Point for yourselfResources for Current CadetsDepartment of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science HomepagePrimary hub for courses, faculty, research areas, and announcements.Major Curriculum & Sample Course PlansHelps cadets visualize workload, sequencing, and honors options.Contact Cyber Science Major AdvisorDirect link to schedule a meeting with a faculty advisor or major director.
What You’ll StudyThe curriculum progresses from programming and network fundamentals to advanced cybersecurity, cyber operations, cryptology, and policy. Cadets build technical competence while integrating legal and ethical considerations into cyber decision-making.How the Curriculum Builds Your ExpertiseFoundational Knowledge: Programming, discrete mathematics, network architecture, digital logic.Advanced Application: Defensive and offensive cyber operations, cloud systems, applied cryptology.Leadership and Military Relevance: Cyber policy, law, and operational planning integrated into technical training.Course HighlightsCourseWhat You'll LearnCY300 Programming FundamentalsConfigure secure communication networks.CY350 Computer NetworksConfigure secure communication networks.CY392 Defensive Cyber OperationsDetect and respond to cyber threats.CY482 Offensive Cyber OperationsConduct controlled offensive exercises.CY394 Cloud ComputingSecure distributed enterprise systems.MA464 Applied Algebra with CryptologyApply cryptographic principles to secure communications.CY460 Cyber Policy, Strategy, and OperationsEvaluate legal and strategic considerations shaping cyber operations.XE401 and XE402 Integrative System DesignLead a team delivering a complete cyber computing solution.View the full Cyber Science course catalogYear-by-Year SnapshotThis progression builds foundational knowledge first, advances to applied technical skills, and culminates with leadership-focused projects.First Year – FoundationsMathematics and introductory computing.Second Year – Core Cyber SystemsNetworks, discrete math, cybersecurity foundations.Third Year – Applied Cyber OperationsApplied cyber operations, cloud systems, cryptology.Senior Year – Integration and Strategic PerspectiveAdvanced electives and integrative system design.Capstone and Integrative ExperienceCyber Science majors complete a two-course integrative design sequence. Teams define requirements, assess vulnerabilities, design secure architectures, implement solutions, and present results. Projects emphasize disciplined testing, risk assessment, and leadership in delivering secure systems.View the full EECS curriculum in the USMA Red BookFaculty and MentorshipCyber Science at West Point emphasizes close mentorship and operational relevance. Small class sizes foster disciplined analysis and individualized mentorship. Faculty guide cadets through coursework, internships, and research aligned with Army cyber priorities.Meet the FacultyThe department is led by COL Christa Chewar, an experienced Signal officer with deployed cyber and acquisition experience. Faculty include Army cyber officers and cybersecurity scholars affiliated with the Army Cyber Institute and Cyber Research Center.Department CultureThe department fosters disciplined problem-solving, ethical responsibility, and applied innovation. Faculty know cadets by name and challenge them to think critically while connecting cyber theory to operational realities.Faculty AchievementsFaculty lead research initiatives through the Army Cyber Institute and Cyber Research Center, linking cadets to real Army and Department of Defense sponsors.Many instructors have served in deployed cyber and signal assignments, bringing practical insight directly into labs and capstone design.Faculty-guided cadet projects are routinely presented at Projects Day and professional cybersecurity forums.Student-faculty collaboration frequently extends into Academic Individual Advanced Development internships supporting cyber operations and emerging technology initiatives.View full faculty directoryExpand Your ExpertiseCyber Science majors may tailor their academic path through electives, honors research, and complementary minors. Each pathway combines technical depth with applied system design, preparing cadets to operate and lead in complex digital environments.Pair With a MinorComplementary MinorOpportunityCyber SecurityDeepen expertise in network defense, threat analysis, and secure architecture.Access the Cyber Hub and hands-on cyber laboratories for defensive and offensive training.Artificial IntelligenceDevelop advanced skills in machine learning and data engineering.Engage in applied AI research within EECS laboratories and the Army Cyber Institute.Computer ScienceStrengthen software development and systems design foundations.Work in advanced programming and systems labs supporting secure application development.RoboticsIntegrate cyber capabilities with autonomous systems and embedded platforms.Utilize robotics laboratories focused on sensors, control systems, and secure device integration.Data ScienceEnhance quantitative analysis and evidence-based cyber decision-making.Use advanced analytics tools and computational laboratories to interpret operational datasets.Ready to Lead? Start Your Journey at West PointApply today to pursue a Cyber Science major while gaining world-class leadership training, a fully funded education, and a career-launching experience. Admission is competitive, but this major is open to all cadets who meet USMA’s academic, physical, and leadership standards.Key Deadlines:Feb. 15 – Application & Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) openApril 15 – SLE application closesFall (Senior Year) – Nomination applications dueJan. 31 (Senior Year) – Candidate Checklist deadlineView full admissions requirementsTake the First StepStarting the application does not commit you to a major. It opens the door to guidance, advising, and a clearer picture of your path forward.Begin your journey in STEM at West PointGet answers to your questionsDiscover West Point for yourselfResources for Current CadetsDepartment of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science HomepagePrimary hub for courses, faculty, research areas, and announcements.Major Curriculum & Sample Course PlansHelps cadets visualize workload, sequencing, and honors options.Contact Cyber Science Major AdvisorDirect link to schedule a meeting with a faculty advisor or major director.