CSM’s Cybersecurity Program: A National Leader in Education for 2025
Introduction
In an era where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been higher. Recognizing this urgent need, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) has emerged as a beacon of excellence in cybersecurity education. Recently, CSM’s cybersecurity associate degree program was ranked among the top 10 in the United States for 2025 by Intelligent.com, scoring an impressive 89.71 out of 100 points. This accolade not only highlights the quality of education at CSM but also underscores the institution’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in a critical field.
A Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Yolanda Wilson, President of CSM, expressed pride in this national recognition, attributing it to the dedication of the faculty and staff. “This national recognition reflects the student-centered focus, industry expertise, and pursuit of academic excellence so clearly evident in our incredible faculty and staff,” she stated. Dr. Wilson emphasized that this achievement aligns with Maryland’s broader goal of enhancing the cybersecurity talent pipeline, a mission that CSM is actively advancing.
Lakisha Ferebee, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Cybersecurity Technology, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We don’t want our students to just graduate; we want them to excel.” Her passion for equipping students with the necessary tools, resources, and pathways to thrive in the cybersecurity landscape is a testament to the program’s student-centric approach.
Comprehensive Programs and State-of-the-Art Facilities
CSM offers a robust cybersecurity associate degree program designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in the field. Additionally, the college provides a cybersecurity certificate program tailored for individuals currently employed in the industry, as well as those without prior work experience. This dual approach ensures that CSM caters to a diverse range of students, from newcomers to seasoned professionals seeking to enhance their skills.
In 2024, CSM took a significant step forward by launching two new cyber labs—one at the Prince Frederick Campus in Calvert County and another at the Leonardtown Campus. These state-of-the-art facilities represent a substantial investment in the education of CSM students and the future workforce of the region. The establishment of these labs was made possible through the generous support of The Patuxent Partnership, which has committed over $400,000 to fund scholarships and initiatives in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), including cybersecurity.
Rigorous Evaluation and Ranking Methodology
The ranking by Intelligent.com is based on a rigorous, data-driven methodology that evaluates educational programs across the country. Each institution is assessed on a proprietary scale of 0 to 100, with scores derived from four key factors: academic quality, graduation rates, cost and return on investment (ROI), and student resources. This comprehensive evaluation process ensures that prospective students can make informed decisions based on accurate and meaningful data.
Intelligent.com enhances its evaluation by leveraging data from trusted sources such as U.S. News & World Report, the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By cross-checking these sources with internal reviews and aggregated rankings, Intelligent.com provides a reliable assessment of the best cybersecurity programs available.
Career Opportunities and Financial Outlook
Graduates of CSM’s cybersecurity program are well-prepared to enter a variety of roles in the cybersecurity field, including positions as cybersecurity analysts, network administrators, and information security specialists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts earn an average salary of $120,360 per year, reflecting the lucrative opportunities available in this growing sector.
Conclusion
The College of Southern Maryland’s recognition as one of the top cybersecurity programs in the nation is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and student success. With a focus on providing comprehensive education, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive learning environment, CSM is not only preparing students for the challenges of today but also equipping them to excel in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.
For those interested in exploring CSM’s cybersecurity program further, more information can be found on their official website. To read the full report on the best cybersecurity associate degree programs of 2025, visit Intelligent.com. As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, CSM stands ready to lead the way in shaping the future of this vital industry.