Center of Academic Excellence Designations
Dakota State University is a Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity, with designations for Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), Cyber Operations (CAE-CO) and Cyber Research (CAE-R)—one of only 9 institutions that hold all three designations.
DSU is designated by the National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) program, managed by the National Security Agency's (NSA) National Cryptologic University. The program promotes high standards in cybersecurity education, encourages workforce development, supports community outreach, and fosters collaboration across institutions.
These designations reflect our commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and developing a skilled cybersecurity workforce. Through hands-on training and collaborative research between faculty and students, our graduates are well-prepared for careers in national security, industry, and advanced cyber research.
Current DSU CAE Designations:
The Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) designation is awarded to regionally accredited institutions that offer cybersecurity degrees or certificates at the associate, bachelor’s, and graduate levels. It signifies that the institution contributes to protecting national infrastructure by advancing education and research in cyber defense, while also helping to develop a pipeline of qualified cybersecurity professionals for the nation.
The CAE-CO designation is awarded to institutions offering a deeply technical, interdisciplinary program focused on specialized cyber operations critical to intelligence, military, and law enforcement agencies. The program is grounded in computer science, computer engineering, and electrical engineering, providing extensive hands-on learning through labs and exercises.
The CAE-R designation is awarded to Department of Defense schools, PhD-granting military academies, or regionally accredited four-year institutions classified by the Carnegie Foundation as Doctoral Universities with moderate to highest research activity. This designation recognizes institutions that advance the understanding of cyber defense technology, policy, and practices to help the nation prevent and respond to catastrophic cyber events.
CAE programs of study
Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations
The bachelor's degree in cyber operations prepares you to identify and respond to cyber threats through practical labs and real-world research. You will graduate fully equipped to start your career in cybersecurity.
Master of Science in Cyber Defense
The master's program in cyber defense provides essential skills in risk management, intrusion detection, and digital forensics, preparing you for leadership roles in the cybersecurity field.
Center faculty
Courses are taught and supported by faculty from across the The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences.
The Industry Advisory Board for the Center at DSU is a distinguished group of local and national professionals, who provide strategic and programmatic guidance for the Center’s activities and the broader DSU cyber initiatives.
Cyber news at DSU
Trent Dawson is new Director of Governors Cyber Academy at DSU
Dr. Trent Dawson is the new Director of the Governors Cyber Academy at Dakota State University.
Lisa Fox Selected for National Emerging Leaders Council
Dakota State University’s Lisa Fox, Director of CyberHealth at DSU, has been selected to join the 2026 Emerging Leaders Council for Civitas Networks for Health.
Alkhwaldi and research team honored internationally
Dakota State University Assistant Professor of Information Systems Abeer Alkhwaldi and her research team were recently awarded the prestigious National Research Award 2025 from the Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation.