Daytona State College redesignated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense

The Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense at DSC was created in 2013 through a grant.

By Observer Staff
| 12:00 p.m. January 19, 2023

Daytona State College. Photo courtesy of Google Maps

Ormond Beach Observer
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The National Security Agency has redesignated Daytona State College as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense through 2028.

DSC offers an advanced technical certificate in cybersecurity and cyberforensics and a bachelor of science in information technology.

“Cybersecurity is a highly technical and constantly evolving field,” said Dante Leon, DSC associate vice president. “This redesignation is a testament to the commitment of our faculty and staff to prepare students with the skills they need to be successful in jobs in industry, government and beyond.”

The Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense at DSC was created in 2013 through a grant. Since its inception, the center — housed in DSC’s Advanced Technology College — has focused on providing training in cybersecurity and cyberforensics. In 2016, the center was designated as a National Center for Academic Excellence for Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency/Central Security Service.

“Our mission at Daytona State is to anticipate the education and workforce needs of the citizens and businesses of Volusia and Flagler counties,” said Dr. Amy Locklear, DSC executive vice president and provost. “Our cybersecurity and cyberforensics programs are a key element of our long-term strategy to meet our region's ever-evolving needs.”