UNT re-solidified its status as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense for the next 25 years. UNT is among 30 institutions nationwide — and one of only four in Texas — with a 25-year designation from the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA).

This status underscores UNT’s commitment to cybersecurity through academic, research, and institutional practices and community engagement. UNT is one of the few universities offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees and a doctorate in cybersecurity.

With the designation, UNT can issue security certificates approved by the NSA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, expanding job opportunities for recent graduates. Through UNT’s Center for Information and Cyber Security (CICS), College of Engineering and College of Information faculty are advancing information and computer security.

“In today’s fast-changing digital world, with the expanse of the internet and the rise of artificial intelligence, it’s clear why cybersecurity matters more than ever. At UNT, our goal is to pioneer innovative solutions to address these evolving challenges,” says Ram Dantu, CICS director and computer science and engineering professor.