Students Explain Significance of New Cybersecurity Minor
Three recent MSIT graduates share why they pursued the minor and how they think the experience will benefit them moving forward.
The first group of Northwestern Engineering students completed a minor in cybersecurity through the school's Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program this spring.
The minor launched in September 2023.
Students completed five cybersecurity-focused courses (one 10-week course and four five-week courses) for a total of three units. The classes provided a holistic view of cybersecurity topics appropriate for leadership roles.
We checked in with some of the students to hear why they pursued the minor and how they plan on applying the lessons they learned.
Why is MSIT's minor in cybersecurity important?
Jessica Vazquez (MSIT '24): MSIT recognizes the importance of cybersecurity in today's world. We are constantly hearing about ransomware attacks and other cyber incidents. This minor prepares students to have the knowledge and tools to work in this new environment where new threats are constantly emerging.
Why did you pursue MSIT's minor in cybersecurity?
Vazquez: It aligns with my career as a security operations center (SOC) analyst. It will help me further my career as I take on more responsibilities in the future.
Yashas Vishwas (MSIT '24): I understand the importance of cybersecurity to all organizations. Having a formal education in this domain will go a long way. My passion toward building a more secure virtual world is an added benefit.
What was your favorite class?
Vazquez: My favorite class was Cyber Forensics. It was very hands-on, and I learned a lot of new tools that will help me as a SOC analyst and as an avid capture the flag (CTF) competitor (CTF is a cybersecurity competition where participants try to find hidden files or information).
What were some of the most important lessons you learned about cybersecurity?
Hank Lee (MSIT '24): I learned how cybersecurity works and how hackers can affect a company.
Vazquez: Learning about the different compliance and risk management frameworks, as well as understanding the different terminology there is in cybersecurity.
How do you hope to apply cybersecurity lessons professionally?
Vazquez: I will conduct risk analyses to mitigate new threats.
Vishwas: Most of what I learned is directly applicable in my job as a solutions engineer in the cybersecurity space. I will liaise with chief information security officers as I start my job and be able to speak their language; that will be the most significant benefit.
