NSA, Homeland Security Designate ECPI University a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

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Charleston, SC – ECPI University proudly announces its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This esteemed recognition extends through 2028.

Earning this designation requires that schools align stringent CAE criteria and mapping curricula to a core set of cyber defense knowledge units. A team of ECPI cyber faculty collaborated on the multi-month application process, which included an external committee review and a panel interview. The university previously received this designation in 2018.

“Continually meeting the NSA’s rigorous standards showcases our unique proficiency in cybersecurity education,” said ECPI University President Mark Dreyfus. “It emphasizes ECPI University’s ongoing commitment to cyber defense, and to producing highly skilled professionals capable of defending our national information infrastructure from evolving threats.”

ECPI’s year-round Cybersecurity program offers an accelerated path to a bachelor’s degree in just 2.5 years. It focuses on practical, application-based learning in areas such as hardware and software management, data protection, vulnerability analysis, network defense, and security policy development. Additionally, the university prioritizes frequent updates to course content, state-of-the-industry cyber labs, and active faculty and employer partnerships to ensure students receive a comprehensive, real-world education capable of adapting to the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

“ECPI provides a unique pathway for students, from recent high school graduates to career changers, to expand their technical skillset and embark on a career in cybersecurity,” said Dr. Keith Morneau, Dean of Computer and Information Science at ECPI University. “To do this, we highlight the integration of experiential learning within a community of practice, creating an environment conducive to learning from experiences and industry experts. It’s just one of the ways we are working to cultivate a robust ecosystem for immersive learning and professional growth.”

About ECPI University
Founded in 1966, ECPI University is a private university with 17 locations in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Texas and online. ECPI is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. Questions about the accreditation of ECPI may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org). The university has programs in technology, nursing, health science, business, criminal justice, and culinary arts. Program availability varies by campus. For more information, visit www.ecpi.edu.