Deakin University is to become the first Australian university to offer fully-accredited qualifications in cyber security, with five degrees and masters programs receiving recognition from the Australian Computer Society (ACS), Australia’s peak body for technology professionals.
ACS, the only body in Australia with the power to accredit IT courses, has recently added cyber security to its accreditations. Currently, many universities and institutions offer cyber security courses, but Deakin University’s five degrees and masters programs in the area will be the first to accredited by an external and independent body.
Professor Karen Hapgood, Deakin University’s executive dean of science engineering and built environment, said the institution was proud to be able to offer students a fully accredited cyber security course that will be recognised industry-wide and overseas.
“It certainly endorses the high quality curriculum and the high quality of academic staff teaching our courses, and validates Deakin’s decision last year to update its cyber security courses in line with industry and world needs,” Hapgood said.
“As cyber security becomes more important to our national and global security than ever before, it is vital that students can take comfort that they are being taught at the highest possible level.”
Yohan Ramasundara, president of ACS, said the introduction of cyber security accreditation was a necessary step in addressing the increasing importance of the sector.
“With the growing need for expertise in cyber security for our evolving and growing digital economy, introducing recognition for specialist cyber security qualifications and expertise was a must,” Ramasundara said.